Gold Coast Health Plan Announces New Chief Executive Officer

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) announced (on Dec. 10) that its governing board has appointed Nick Liguori as chief executive officer of the Ventura County Medi-Cal plan effective Feb. 1.

At its monthly meeting on Dec. 16, the Ventura County Medi-Cal Managed Care Commission (VCMMCC) approved a three-year contract with Mr. Liguori. The contract runs through Jan. 31, 2025.

“We are thrilled to have Nick lead Gold Coast Health Plan for the next three years,” said Dee Pupa, VCMMCC chair and deputy director of managed care at the Ventura County Health Care Agency. “His vast experience as a leader at health plans that focused on serving vulnerable populations will be an asset to Gold Coast Health Plan’s members and providers as the Medi-Cal program undergoes transformational changes in the coming years.”

Mr. Liguori joined GCHP as its chief operating officer in September with more than 20 years of experience at health plans that serve Medicaid, Medicare, and dual-coverage (Medicaid/Medicare) beneficiaries. Before joining GCHP, Mr. Liguori served for five years as executive vice president of Amida Care, a private, nonprofit community health plan specializing in comprehensive health coverage for Medicaid members in New York City with chronic conditions. There, he is credited with playing a key role in improving member satisfaction and rebuilding provider relationships.

“I look forward to working with our commission and leadership team in this new capacity to advance Gold Coast Health Plan’s member-focused mission,” Mr. Liguori said. “I am committed to our community of members, providers, and partners, and I am excited about the new ways in which we will work together to offer beneficiaries additional services and have a positive impact on health and healthcare in Ventura County.”

Mr. Liguori will succeed Margaret Tatar, who has served as CEO since 2019 and will continue to serve GCHP in her capacity as a consultant for Health Management Associates.