LANSING, Mich., Aug. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Kim Horn, president and CEO of Priority Health in Grand Rapids, is the 2004 recipient of the Ellis J. Bonner Outstanding Achievement Award, which was presented at the 19th Annual Summer Conference of the Michigan Association of Health Plans (MAHP). The Ellis J. Bonner Award is the health plan industry's most prestigious award. It is based on nominations from MAHP members to honor those industry leaders who have given exemplary service, provided outstanding leadership and contributed to the managed care industry.
Under Horn's leadership, Priority Health has enjoyed dramatic growth and national recognition for exceptional customer service, innovative programs and superior clinical outcomes. In presenting the award, Richard Murdock, executive director of MAHP, noted, "Kim is driven to improve value in the managed care industry by improving health outcomes and reducing health care costs. Her leadership in organizations like the Michigan Women's Foundation, MAHP, and Tomorrow's Child has enabled Kim's vision to reach people throughout Michigan."
"This honor recognizes the hard work of many talented professionals at Priority Health," noted Kim Horn in accepting this award. "Our core purpose is to provide people access to excellent and affordable health care. We never take this responsibility lightly and continually strive for new and innovative ways to improve the health of our members."
Horn is responsible for the strategic direction and overall operation of Priority Health. Horn, a native of Flint, Michigan, has an extensive background in health care. Before joining Priority Health, she held positions with Mercy Health Services of Farmington Hills, Genesee Memorial Hospital of Flint, and Health Plan of Mid-America of Kansas City, Mo. Horn is a graduate of the University of Michigan with a degree in business administration.
The Bonner Outstanding Achievement Award was initiated in 1995 to honor Ellis James Bonner who was the president and CEO of The Wellness Plan/Comprehensive Health Services. His leadership and dedication inspired the HMO community from its earliest beginnings and helped to nurture the community into today's thriving industry. His tireless efforts to create an accessible and just health coverage system responsive to the needs of Michigan citizens earned him not only the respect of health care professionals but also a place in the hearts of those who witnessed his ongoing efforts to mentor young people coming up through the ranks. Among his many contributions, Bonner was instrumental in developing the Group Health Foundation's Minority Training Program. A minister and a musician as well as inspired CEO, Bonner was a tremendous mentor, role model, and national leader in the health care industry and inspired MAHP to honor his memory and achievements with this annual award.
The Michigan Association of Health Plans (MAHP) is an industry voice for 23 health care plans, covering more than 2.1 million Michigan residents, and 33 businesses affiliated with the health care industry. MAHP facilitates communication among members, government, and the industry regarding health care issues of common concern. The mission of the Michigan Association of Health Plans is to provide leadership for the promotion and advocacy of high quality, affordable, accessible health care for the citizens of Michigan.
Michigan Association of Health PlansCONTACT: Richard Murdock, Executive Director, or Gail Campana, Directorof Education/Communication, both of Michigan Association of Health Plans,+1-517-371-3181
Web site: http://mahp.org/
