The President and CEO of HealthNow New York has announced he is making plans to retire. Alphonso O’Neil-White has held the position for 10 years, longer than any CEO in the 76-year history of the health insurer.
HealthNow New York serves more than 800,000 members as part of BlueCross BlueShield Association licensee in Western New York and in New York’s Capital District, as BlueShield of Northeastern New York. The company operates HealthNow Administrative Services in Pennsylvania and California.
O'Neil-White says he is announcing his retirement plans to allow for a seamless transition. He says he remains in excellent heath as he approaches the age of 65.
“I am extremely proud of what our company and team of leaders accomplished during this decade-long run I’ve so enjoyed,” O’Neil-White said. “This is an appropriate time for me to announce my intentions, not only because of my age and tenure, but because I know HNNY is poised and prepared to thrive in the new health-care environment of the next several years.”
O’Neil-White and Thomas J. Hook, chairman of the HealthNow board of directors, emphasized that a succession plan is in place, and that the lead time gives the board ample room to do a national search for O’Neil-White’s successor.
HealthNow New York says its members, customers and associates will see no impact on services during the transition.
"Our board recognizes the achievements Alphonso made during his tenure. We know his commitment to the Western New York community will continue,” Hook said. “And I want to thank him, on behalf of the board and all our associates, for his outstanding leadership and commitment to our members, as well as the communities we serve.”
HealthNow has an annual estimated revenue of $2.5 billion.