Dr. Felix Nuñez Selected as Permanent CEO for Gold Coast Health Plan

Gold Coast Health Plan Welcomes Dr. Felix Nuñez as Permanent CEO

In a landmark decision, Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) has officially appointed Dr. Felix Nuñez as its Chief Executive Officer, a role he has been acting in for the past eight months. This update comes as the governing board of Ventura County's Medi-Cal plan approved a three-year contract for Dr. Nuñez, which is set to commence on May 1, 2025, and will run through April 2028.

Dr. Nuñez is no stranger to GCHP, having joined the organization in 2022 as the Associate Chief Medical Officer, subsequently becoming the Chief Medical Officer. With nearly thirty years of experience in both healthcare delivery and managed care, his appointment symbolizes continuity and growth for the health plan's leadership.

As he steps into the permanent CEO role, Dr. Nuñez expressed enthusiasm for his mission, emphasizing that his career has been devoted to serving vulnerable populations and underserved communities. "I’m thrilled to continue this vital work in Ventura County," he stated, highlighting his intention to enhance partnerships and accessibility to high-quality care for the over 240,000 Medi-Cal members served by GCHP.

Under Dr. Nuñez's guidance, GCHP plans to focus on numerous pivotal initiatives. This includes advocating for federal and state support to retain funding for the Medi-Cal program, developing a Dual Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) targeting individuals who qualify for both Medi-Cal and Medicare, and continuing investments aimed at improving quality and strengthening the healthcare infrastructure in Ventura County.

Laura Espinosa, chair of GCHP's governing board, expressed confidence in Dr. Nuñez's vision, noting that his leadership is in line with the Commission's commitment to delivering high standards of care. "This appointment marks a transformative era for Gold Coast Health Plan, with a strong emphasis on community integration and innovative approaches to member engagement. We are certain in his strategic direction and clinical acumen," she remarked.

Educationally, Dr. Nuñez holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Loyola Marymount University, a Doctor of Medicine degree from Harvard Medical School, and a Master of Public Health from the UCLA School of Public Health. His medical training was completed at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, which complements his extensive professional background.

Established in 2011, Gold Coast Health Plan has been dedicated to enhancing health access for its members, which represent a significant portion of Ventura County residents. The plan currently supports approximately one in three county residents, with special attention towards vulnerable groups such as seniors and young children.

As GCHP moves forward under Dr. Nuñez’s stewardship, it reaffirms its commitment to fostering a healthier community through improved healthcare access and quality. The roadmap he outlines symbolizes a determined push towards innovating member services and reinforcing the overall health management for all plan participants.

For more details on Gold Coast Health Plan’s services, visit www.goldcoasthealthplan.org.