Essence Healthcare Announces Executive Leadership Appointments

ST. LOUIS, Sept. 17, 2024 – Essence Healthcare, a leading Medicare Advantage plan provider, today announced the addition of Jordan Reigel as president, and Dr. Saria Saccocio as chief medical officer. Reigel and Saccocio join a dynamic team of experts who are developing innovative healthcare solutions, improving patient outcomes, and advancing value-based care initiatives.

Reigel is a proven leader in healthcare management, with more than 25 years of industry experience. As president, he is responsible for building and managing care delivery networks, benefits and products to meet the needs of Essence Healthcare members across existing and emerging markets. He also leads the design and implementation of value-based payment strategies in partnership with healthcare providers to drive improved health outcomes.

Before joining Essence, Reigel served in leadership positions at UnitedHealthcare where he was responsible for advancing value-based care strategies. Most recently, he served as the general manager of a value-based specialty care startup.

Saccocio is a results-oriented healthcare leader specializing in strategic planning, program development, and equitable healthcare. She has more than 20 years of experience leading award-winning, quality programs and improving patient care across the continuum of health. Saccocio was recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of the top 100 Hospital and Health System Chief Medical Officers to Know and was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society.

Before joining Essence Healthcare’s leadership team, Saccocio served as chief medical officer with several health systems, including Prisma Health, Bon Secours, and Lifepoint Hospitals. Most recently, she was the eastern region chief medical officer for Carelon Health.

“Jordan and Saria are visionary and dynamic leaders whose healthcare experience will significantly strengthen our ability to better serve our members,” said Ben Grabski, chief financial officer, Lumeris Group Holding Corporation. “Their contributions will be instrumental in delivering a best-in-class patient experience, achieving better health outcomes for our plan members, and driving greater value for all health care stakeholders.”

Founded in 2004 and headquartered in St. Louis, Essence Healthcare is known for its innovative approach to care and focus on patient-centered services. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has recognized Essence with a 5-star overall plan rating for three consecutive years, a testament to the health plan’s commitment to quality, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction.