Both Ruth and Myra are joining Avalere’s Policy Practice as principals. They will be working with a range of clients on issues related to health coverage policy, federal and state requirements impacting commercial coverage, state and federal insurance exchanges, and health plan regulatory compliance.

“Within the past year, we’ve seen major changes occur in the public and commercial insurance marketplaces. It’s imperative that all healthcare stakeholders understand what these new dynamics will mean for health plans and patient access to affordable coverage,” said Miryam Frieder, Practice Director at Avalere. “Ruth and Myra bring unique experiences to the firm that will help our clients understand and adapt to the business and policy implications of an ever-evolving health insurance market.”

About Ruth Liu

Ruth comes to Avalere from Valley Health Plan where she was the chief business development officer. In this role, she led the sales and marketing teams and drove strategic growth efforts for the organization. She also provided counsel on projects related to improving member experience, enrollment processes, premium payments, and shopping portals. Ruth also brings significant experience in health coverage policy and was one of the lead authors of California’s health reform proposal, a precursor to the Affordable Care Act.

Ruth also held roles at Blue Shield of California, Kaiser Permanente, and the California Health and Human Services (HHS) Agency.

She has an MPP from University of California, Berkeley, and a BA from Wellesley College.

“As a result of COVID-19, we are seeing new challenges and opportunities arise in the healthcare sector,” said Ruth Liu, Principal at Avalere Health. “I’m excited to work with clients to help them understand the changes that are occurring in the health insurance sector and to develop sound strategies leveraging Avalere’s robust data assets.”

About Myra Simon

Myra comes to Avalere from America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) where she served as the executive director of Employer and Commercial Policy. While at AHIP, she identified and provided strategic advice on policy issues impacting the commercial health insurance market, including the Affordable Care Act exchanges. Myra also presented recommendations to improve healthcare affordability and coverage access to AHIP leadership, health insurance executives, HHS, and other agencies.

She previously held roles at Cambia Health Solutions and The Advisory Board Company.

Myra has an MA and BA from Lewis & Clark College.

“I look forward to partnering with health plans, providers, and life sciences companies to help them develop business and policy strategies during this important time in healthcare,” said Myra Simon, Principal at Avalere. “Avalere is uniquely positioned to help clients navigate the rapidly changing policy environment with a new administration and Congress, focusing on meaningful coverage reforms for the first time in many years.”

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