At a time when rising healthcare costs are straining families and providers, Blue Shield of California has recently appointed a longtime executive of the company, Mike Stuart, as its new president and chief executive officer.

Within the new role, announced yesterday, Stuart will lead the nonprofit health plan’s efforts to deliver affordable, high-quality care to 6 million Californians.

Stuart, who has been with Blue Shield California for more than 11 years, steps into the role after serving as interim CEO since March and as chief financial officer since 2022. This new position comes at a time in what the company calls a critical moment for healthcare affordability and access.

“Mike Stuart is the right leader at the right time for Blue Shield of California,” Kristina Leslie, chair of the

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