UPMC Health Plan's President of State Programs Brendan Harris Recognized as one of Modern Healthcare's 2024 Innovators

Pittsburgh (April 8, 2024) – UPMC Health Plan today announced that Brendan Harris, President, UPMC for You and State Programs, was recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of the organization's top Innovators for 2024.

"I am honored to receive this recognition for our holistic work across all of our government products to provide access to not only high-quality clinical care, but additional non-medical supports that address the impacts of health disparities," Harris said. "Health plans can and should do more than just provide health coverage —that's why this kind of innovation is critical to our community-based mission to meet the needs of medically vulnerable individuals."

In his role as President of State Programs, Harris oversees UPMC Community HealthChoices (CHC), a statewide Managed Long-Term Services and Supports program; UPMC HealthChoices, a Medicaid Physical Health Program; UPMC for Kids, a Children's Health Insurance Program; and the Center for Social Impact.

Harris was specifically recognized for his efforts to open a first of its kind UPMC Health Plan Neighborhood Center in Pittsburgh's East End neighborhood. Developed collaboratively with local community organizations, the Center helps individuals access health insurance navigation, community health worker supports, and connections to workforce development programs along with other non-medical social needs. It also offers access to a monthly food distribution; free working space; and a conference room for use by community organizations providing services, including U.S. Citizenship and financial literacy classes. In 2023, over 40 different organizations utilized the space to support the local community and Health Plan members in the East End of Pittsburgh.

"The role of innovation has always been paramount in health care, and our 2024 honorees as top Innovators are driving real change in the industry," said Mary Ellen Podmolik, editor in chief of Modern Healthcare. "The wide variety of projects underway by these executives and organizations demonstrates a dedication to tackling the 'what ifs' that can improve the delivery of health care and improve communities and the patient experience."

Modern Healthcare's Innovators Awards & recognition program recognizes leaders and organizations driving innovation that improves care, achieves measurable results, and contributes to the clinical and financial goals of the organization.

The profiles of the honorees are featured in the April 8, 2024, issue of MH magazine and online at ModernHealthcare.com/Innovator-Awards.

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About UPMC Insurance Services

UPMC Insurance Services serves nearly 4.5 million members and is owned and operated by UPMC, a world-renowned health care provider and insurer in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. UPMC Insurance Services provides commercial products through UPMC Health Plan for both groups and individuals. Its commercial products also include workers' compensation and employee assistance from nationally known Workpartners^®. Government products include Medicare Advantage plans (UPMC for Life); special needs plans for those who are eligible for Medicare and Medical Assistance (UPMC for Life Complete Care and UPMC Community HealthChoices); a Medical Assistance plan (UPMC for You); and Children's Health Insurance Program plans (UPMC for Kids). Community Care Behavioral Health Organization—one of the nation's largest nonprofit managed care behavioral health organizations—is also part of the Insurance Services Division. Community Care offers a full range of services to commercial and Medical Assistance members. For more information, visit upmchealthplan.com.