30 August 2005

Governor names two experts to Kansas Health Policy Authority
Governor: Group focused on ways to improve Kansans’ health

Furthering her commitment to meeting the health care needs of all Kansans, Governor Kathleen Sebelius today announced the appointments of Arneatha Martin and Dr. Vernon Alexander Mills to the Kansas Health Policy Authority.

“Making sure Kansas families have access to quality health care remains one of my top priorities. Helping Kansans lead healthier lives was the goal when we first proposed the Healthy Kansas initiative last year, and it remains our goal today,” Governor Sebelius said. “Our goal is, and will remain, making health care affordable for every Kansas family.”

The Kansas Health Policy Authority is tasked with finding ways to reduce the cost of health care and expand health insurance coverage for Kansas families. In addition, the Authority will develop and maintain a coordinated health policy agenda that combines effective purchasing and administration of health care with health promotion and public health strategies.

Saving taxpayer money by streamlining the state’s health care operations and lowering health costs promoting healthy lifestyles and preventive screenings are examples of the initiatives the Governor expects the Authority to undertake.

“For the first time, we’ll have a group of talented, dedicated individuals focused solely on ways to improve the health of the people of Kansas. I’m confident the independence and experience these two medical professionals bring will be most beneficial to the work of this board,” the Governor said.

Martin, Wichita, has worked in the health care industry since the age of 18 as a nurse. Currently, she serves as co-president and chief executive officer of the Center for Health and Wellness Inc. in Wichita, a state-of-the-art primary health care facility designed to meet the needs of the predominately African-American community in northeast Wichita. As she has done throughout her career, the center provides access to primary health care services as well as focusing on prevention and wellness for this traditionally under-served population. Martin received a bachelor’s of science degree in nursing from Wichita State University in 1975, and in 1980 she received her master’s degree in nursing, also from WSU. Martin will serve one term, which expires in 2007.

Dr. Mills, Lansing, has been practicing general pediatrics since 1980. He is past president of the Kansas Medical Society, president of the KAW Valley Medical Society, and served on the Board of Directors of the Sunflower Foundation and Heartland Health. He received his bachelor’s of science in pharmacy from Howard University in 1974 and his doctor of medicine from the University of Kansas in 1977. Dr. Mills will serve one term, which expires in 2008.

Three members of the nine-person authority are appointed by the Governor, with six appointed by legislative leaders. Each voting member is subject to Senate confirmation. Earlier this month, Governor Sebelius appointed Dr. Marcia Nielsen to chair the new Kansas Health Policy Authority.