From the Office of Governor Robert Bentley
MONTGOMERY – Governor Robert Bentley on Monday announced that State Health Officer Dr. Donald Williamson has agreed to lead a task force to ensure a smooth transition in leadership at the Alabama Medicaid Agency.
Independent outside experts will also be brought in to comprehensively review the agency’s operations and finances in order to further strengthen the Agency during difficult financial times. Dr. Williamson will lead these efforts at the request of Governor Bentley.
The Governor also announced Monday that Bill Higdon will serve as the Interim Chief Financial Officer for the Alabama Medicaid Agency. Higdon retired from the finance department at UAB Hospital in Birmingham and brings a wealth of experience that can complement Dr. Williamson’s efforts.
The announcement follows Monday’s resignation of Medicaid Commissioner Dr. R. Bob Mullins, Jr.
“Under the leadership of Dr. Mullins, the Alabama Medicaid Agency has made significant progress in areas such as electronic health records that reduce unnecessary paperwork and costs for patients. Dr. Mullins was also instrumental in the development of patient care networks and the community-based PACE program for the elderly and disabled, and we thank Dr. Mullins for his service as Commissioner,” Governor Bentley said. “Moving forward, we will build on the progress that has been made. We will review the financial structure of Medicaid and its programs so we can ensure the long-term vitality of the agency for the patients who depend on it.”
