#United States #Inland Empire #Health Plan #Rancho Cucamonga #procurement

Inland Empire Health Plan Recognized for Outstanding Procurement

Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) has once again been recognized for its exemplary procurement practices, receiving the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement® Award for the second consecutive year from the National Procurement Institute, Inc. (NPI). This prestigious award underscores IEHP’s commitment to advancing its procurement processes through technological innovation and effective collaboration with external vendors.

In the 2025 awards cycle, IEHP was notably the only health plan to be included in NPI's list, alongside a total of 216 organizations nationwide that achieved this distinguished recognition. The award honors agencies that excel in public procurement practices, and IEHP’s efforts have set the bar high within the health sector.

A Partnership Approach to Procurement

The success of IEHP's procurement department is attributed to a strategic approach, characterized by a strong partnership ethos with vendors. Cita Hendricks, the Director of Procurement at IEHP, emphasized that their process operates as a partnership, where consulting, advice, and feedback are integral to fostering collaborative relationships. This approach not only benefits the organization but also enhances the experience for vendors.

Feedback from vendors played a vital role in the evaluation process for this award. The surveys targeted their experiences, focusing primarily on how well IEHP established a professional and collaborative atmosphere. Shawn Marie Cox, IEHP's Manager of Procurement, expressed pride in the hard work of their team, stating, "Results show we are leading the pack and taking our procurement process to another level." Their continued innovation in this space has been a key driver in maintaining high standards in public procurement.

Celebrating Achievements in Procurement

The Achievement in Excellence in Procurement program was initiated by NPI in 1995 to recognize public agencies, including counties, cities, and school districts, for demonstrating organizational excellence in their procurement operations. To receive this award, organizations must meet rigorous criteria that measure innovation, professionalism, and productivity.

Carrie Mathes, NPI AEP Officer, praised IEHP for its sustained commitment to operational excellence. She stated that the ongoing recognition of IEHP through the Achievement in Excellence in Procurement® Award reinforces their leadership in procurement and their unwavering dedication to continuous improvement.

The recipients of the award will be highlighted at the annual NPI conference scheduled for October 5-8 in Orlando, Florida, where IEHP will be acknowledged among other local agencies, including Cal State San Bernardino and the City of Redlands.

About IEHP

Founded in 1996, Inland Empire Health Plan supports over 1.5 million residents in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties enrolled in Medicaid or IEHP DualChoice plans. As one of the largest not-for-profit Medicare-Medicaid public health plans in the United States, IEHP is recognized for its dedication to enhancing health care access. The organization is proud to have been certified as a Great Place to Work® for five consecutive years. Their mission is not only to heal but also to inspire the community's spirit, striving tirelessly for optimal care and vibrant health for all.

To discover further details on their operations or awards, please visit iehp.org.