HealthMatters Hires Medical Staff

June 9, 2010 – Dr. James C. Ritzenthaler has become medical director of HealthMatters of Central Oregon.

 

In this consulting position, he’ll provide medical oversight of the clinical aspects of the SharedCare Plan, as well as the Links 4 Health Initiative. He’ll also participate in the development, review and oversight of referrals, prior authorizations and protocols for SharedCare members.

 

Patricia Kuratek, RN, has been appointed Nurse Director/Health Advisor. In that role, she’ll oversee medical and care coordination for SharedCare members to assess their health risks and help them develop individual health action plans.

 

“We’re very excited to have Dr. Ritzenthaler and Patricia on board,” said Alisha Hopper, executive director of HealthMatters, a non-profit charged by the state to develop a multi-share health care program. “HealthMatter’s mission is all about improving health in the region, so having two well-qualified medical providers as part of our team is critical. They will work intently to make sure our plans are proactively promoting prevention and primary care.”

 

“They will also concentrate on improving health through early detection of problems and then developing an appropriate treatment plan focused on each individual’s needs,” Hopper continued. This is a key part of the overall SharedCare vision as it is a community health improvement plan designed to provide affordable and comprehensive health coverage benefits for lower-wage earners in Central Oregon.