First Choice Health Company Profile

Background

First Choice Health (FCH), headquartered in Seattle, Washington, is a provider-owned healthcare organization established in 1985. The company offers employers an innovative alternative to traditional health insurance by delivering comprehensive health benefits administration. FCH's mission is to unite providers, employers, and individuals to deliver sustainable solutions that elevate the health and care of communities. Over the past 35 years, FCH has expanded its services to include a growing number of clinically integrated networks (CINs) and a traditional Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), serving over one million members across Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

Key Strategic Focus

FCH's strategic focus centers on providing flexible healthcare administration and cost containment solutions tailored to the unique needs of employers. The company specializes in developing direct-to-employer, value-based risk-sharing solutions that enhance members' healthcare experiences. By partnering with health systems and clinically integrated networks, FCH aims to simplify access to high-quality, affordable care. Notable partnerships include collaborations with St. Charles Health System and Praxis Health in Oregon, as well as St. Luke's Health Plan in Idaho.

Financials and Funding

As of 2024, FCH's annual revenue is estimated at $231.2 million, with approximately 685 employees. The company's revenue per employee stands at $337,500. Specific details regarding funding history and notable investors are not publicly disclosed.

Pipeline Development

FCH continues to expand its direct-to-employer healthcare solutions by forming strategic partnerships with health systems and clinically integrated networks. Recent developments include the launch of collaborative health plans with St. Luke's Health Plan in Idaho and ongoing collaborations with MultiCare Connected Care, Embright, and Eastside Health Network in Washington. These initiatives aim to provide high-value care and improve health outcomes for members.

Technological Platform and Innovation

FCH leverages advanced technological platforms to enhance healthcare delivery and member experience. The company has integrated on-demand primary care services through partnerships with providers like 98point6, offering personalized consultation, diagnosis, and treatment to patients. Additionally, FCH collaborates with health and benefit navigation companies such as Rightway Healthcare to provide members with innovative technology platforms and healthcare navigation support.

Leadership Team

Jaja Okigwe, Chief Executive Officer: Joined FCH in 2018 with over 25 years of experience in healthcare strategy and innovation. Previously served as Senior Vice President of Strategic Development at Premera Blue Cross.

Anisha Sood, Chief Financial and Strategy Officer: Oversees finance and strategy, leading the development of FCH's growth strategy and key partnerships. Prior experience includes roles at Echo Health Ventures and Credit Suisse.

Tiffany Rogers, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer: Brings over 25 years of experience in the employee benefits industry, with a focus on sales management and revenue growth. Previously held leadership positions at Delta Dental of Washington.

David Agler, MD, MBA, Chief Medical Officer: Provides leadership to the Medical Management department. Board Certified in Family Medicine with prior roles including State Medical Director for Idaho Medicaid.

Jacqueline Brainard, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer: Over 30 years of experience in financial, audit, compliance, and administrative roles within the healthcare industry. Joined FCH in 2010.

Dan Brown, Chief Technology Officer: Joined FCH in 2019 with over 22 years of experience in information technology. Previously served as Vice President of Enterprise Solutions at ProKarma.

Kevin Conefrey, VP of HR and Corporate Resources: Over 15 years of executive HR leadership experience, focusing on organizational effectiveness and health benefits plan design. Joined FCH in 2011.

Shidan Greene, VP of Operations: More than 20 years of experience in sales, operations, business management, and strategy. Previously served as Vice President and Senior Program Manager at Alliant Insurance Services.

Warren Maxwell, VP of Finance: Over 12 years of experience in healthcare finance. Joined FCH in 2005 and previously held the position of Controller.

Troy Williams, VP of Health Systems Partnerships: Leads FCH's efforts in creating partnerships with clinically integrated networks. Previously served as Vice President for Vanderbilt Health.

Leadership Changes

In recent years, FCH has made strategic hires and promotions to strengthen its leadership team. Notable appointments include the promotion of Dr. David Agler to Chief Medical Officer in June 2023 and the hiring of Tiffany Rogers as Chief Sales and Marketing Officer. These leadership changes align with FCH's focus on expanding its direct-to-employer healthcare solutions and enhancing partnerships with health systems.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The healthcare benefits administration industry is characterized by a competitive landscape with several key players offering a range of services to employers and individuals. The market is driven by the demand for cost-effective, flexible healthcare solutions that improve access and outcomes for members. FCH's focus on direct-to-employer partnerships and clinically integrated networks positions it uniquely within this dynamic environment.

Competitor Analysis

CareSource: A nonprofit managed healthcare plan serving Medicaid members in multiple states, including Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, West Virginia, Georgia, and North Carolina. CareSource offers public healthcare programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace plans. As of 2017, the company reported revenue of $8.8 billion and served 2 million members.

WellCare: A managed care company providing government-sponsored managed care services, primarily through Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare Prescription Drug plans. WellCare has expanded its services through various acquisitions, including Easy Choice Health Plan in California and Meridian Health Plans in Michigan.

Oscar Health: A technology-driven health insurance company founded in 2012, offering individual and family plans, Medicare Advantage, and small group products. Oscar Health emphasizes telemedicine and transparent claims pricing systems to simplify healthcare navigation for members.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

FCH has established significant collaborations to enhance its market position and innovation capacity. Notable partnerships include:

St. Charles Health System and Praxis Health: Launched "Central Oregon Select," a direct-to-employer, value-based risk-sharing solution providing high-value care through participating provider facilities in Central Oregon.

St. Luke's Health Plan: Partnered to offer a collaborative health plan in Idaho, expanding FCH's reach and establishing credibility in the business community.

98point6: Integrated on-demand primary care services to deliver personalized consultation, diagnosis, and treatment to patients, enhancing virtual care options.

Rightway Healthcare: Collaborated to provide members with access to innovative technology platforms and healthcare navigation support, simplifying the care experience.

Operational Insights

FCH's strategic focus on direct-to-employer partnerships and clinically integrated networks differentiates it from traditional health insurance models. By aligning objectives with health systems and employers, FCH aims to reduce costs and improve health outcomes for members. The company's flexible healthcare administration and cost containment solutions provide a competitive advantage in the evolving healthcare landscape.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

FCH plans to continue expanding its direct-to-employer healthcare solutions by forming new partnerships with health systems and clinically integrated networks. The company aims to enhance its technological platforms to improve member experience and healthcare delivery.