#United States #Camarillo #Gold Coast Health Plan #Medi-Cal #Dr. James Cruz

Gold Coast Health Plan Names Dr. James Cruz as CMO

In a significant leadership development, Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) has announced the permanent appointment of Dr. James Cruz as its new Chief Medical Officer (CMO), effective immediately. Dr. Cruz, a seasoned healthcare executive and a dedicated family physician, takes this role following his tenure as acting CMO since August 2024.

Dr. Cruz brings with him a wealth of experience in managing clinical teams and implementing medical strategies within California's Medi-Cal system. He has been a vital asset to GCHP, which serves nearly 245,000 Medi-Cal members in Ventura County. His commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery, particularly for vulnerable and low-income populations, aligns perfectly with GCHP's mission.

According to Dr. Felix Nuñez, the CEO of GCHP, “Dr. Cruz has devoted his career to serving low-income and vulnerable populations. He is a mission-driven leader with extensive experience in health education and healthcare administration.” Dr. Nuñez believes that Dr. Cruz will guide GCHP into its next phase of development, particularly in improving health outcomes and reducing inequities in healthcare access. Dr. Cruz stated, “I am honored to lead a team dedicated to ensuring that every member has access to high-quality, compassionate care. Everyone deserves access to high-quality healthcare, no matter their background or circumstance.”

Career Background

Before joining GCHP, Dr. Cruz held the position of CMO at Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan and Molina Healthcare of California. There, he focused on managing crucial clinical programs encompassing utilization and care management and the implementation of California’s CalAIM initiatives.

His previous roles include senior positions at AltaMed Health Services and Health Management Associates, where he contributed to pivotal health transformations throughout Southern California. Dr. Cruz is also recognized as a U.S. Navy veteran and currently serves as the President of Latinx Physicians of California, demonstrating his commitment to advocating for diverse health communities.

Dr. Cruz obtained his medical degree from the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, and completed his residency at White Memorial Medical Center in Los Angeles. His academic and practical backgrounds underscore his capability to lead and innovate within the healthcare sector.

GCHP’s Commitment to Quality Care

Since its inception in 2011, Gold Coast Health Plan has aimed to provide access to high-quality healthcare in Ventura County, which accounts for a significant portion of the local population, including one in three county residents, one in six seniors, and one in two children under the age of five. With Dr. Cruz at the helm of its medical strategies, GCHP is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of improving health standards and ensuring that all community members receive the care they need and deserve.

For further information about Gold Coast Health Plan and its initiatives, visit their official website at www.goldcoasthealthplan.org.