CMS's Tavenner to step down at end of February; response from AHA's Rich Umbdenstock

After five years at CMS, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Marilyn Tavenner today told staff she will leave the agency at the end of February. Andy Slavitt, currently principal deputy administrator, will become acting administrator, Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Burwell said in a similar memo. AHA President and CEO Rich Umbdenstock commented, “As both CMS administrator and deputy before that, Marilyn leaves a legacy of having played a major role in making sure that millions of Americans have access to health coverage. Moreover, she has provided leadership in making care better by working with the provider community in launching key performance improvement efforts. As a nurse, health care executive and government official she brought a practical perspective to running a very complex government agency. Her ability to work in a bipartisan manner with legislators and listen carefully to the concerns of hospitals and other stakeholders was key to her effectiveness as a leader. Combine them all together with her honesty, integrity and determination and you have a role model for public service.”