Easy Choice names Cypress physician as Chief Medical Officer
Easy Choice Health Plan, Inc., a WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (NYSE: WCG) company, announced it has named Dr. Teri L. Rhetta, of Cypress, as their chief medical officer in California.
In this role, Dr. Rhetta will collaborate with independent practice associations (IPAs) to help drive clinical outcomes while managing medical and behavioral health integration. She will also oversee the quality, behavioral and medical analytics teams. She will report to Karen M. Johnson, regional president, Medicare west division, WellCare Health Plans.
“We’re excited to welcome Dr. Rhetta to our team,” said Johnson. “With more than 14 years of experience in the medical field, her leadership and expertise will help ensure our members are receiving the care and quality services they need to live better, healthier lives.”
“It’s an honor to join Easy Choice Health Plan,” said Dr. Rhetta. “I look forward to working with the team to support quality improvement, provider relations and healthier communities in California.” The company serves more than 30,000 customers in the state.
Prior to joining Easy Choice Health Plan, Dr. Rhetta practiced medicine at Loma Linda University Medical Center, Riverside County Regional Medical Center and Loma Linda Murrieta. Most recently, she served as medical director of health services at Inland Empire Health Plan where she provided physician support for more than 1.2 million Medi-Cal and Medicare patients, coordinated complex and routine case management and oversaw the inpatient review process.
Dr. Rhetta earned a master’s degree in medical management from the University of Southern California, Marshall School of Business and a doctor of medicine degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. She also received a bachelor of science in business administration from Loyola Marymount University.