Becker’s Healthcare Podcast Ellen Sexton, Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer at Blue Shield of California
Dec 14, 2025
Ellen Sexton, Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer at Blue Shield of California, brings over two decades of expertise in health care. She dives into the significant impacts of recent policy changes on Medicaid, including eligibility challenges and community resource initiatives. Ellen highlights the need for innovation in managing rising employer costs and addresses the growing demand for behavioral and women's health solutions. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to enhance care while maintaining affordability.
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Medicaid Policy Shifts Raise Coverage Risks
- Policy changes to Medicaid create extra eligibility hurdles and risk coverage loss for many members.
- Loss of CalAIM services and immigration-related enrollment freezes could worsen community supports and outcomes.
Use Tech And Programs To Protect Enrollment
- Use technology to simplify eligibility and enrollment, like AI pre-population of forms.
- Offer supportive programs (e.g., GED) to help members meet new requirements and retain coverage.
Community Resource Centers In Action
- Blue Shield partners with LA Care to run 14 community resource centers that serve whole communities.
- These centers provide help with eligibility, social needs, and reinforce the value of coverage.