Ferugson picks temporary health leaders

OLYMPIA – Governor-elect Bob Ferguson announced Jan. 9 the appointment of two interim leaders for Washington’s health care agencies. Jessica Todorovich will serve as Acting Secretary of the Department of Health (DOH), while MaryAnne Lindeblad will step in as Acting Director of the Health Care Authority (HCA). Both appointments begin Jan. 15.

Ferguson said the changes aim to make health care more affordable and accessible. “I am thankful these experienced individuals are stepping into such critical roles while we conduct a national search for these important positions,” he said.

Jessica Todorovich: Todorovich has worked at the DOH for over 12 years and has over 25 years of government experience. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Whitman College and a master’s in organizational leadership from Chapman University. She focuses on service delivery and leadership development.

MaryAnne Lindeblad: Lindeblad retired after decades in health-related roles, including a nine-year tenure as Washington’s Medicaid Director. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Eastern Washington University and a Master of Public Health from University of Washington. Lindeblad has been recognized for her work in health care and continues to serve on nonprofit boards.

Author Bio

Clare McGraw, Reporter

Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.