Insurance Commissioner Announces Retirement of Geo...( Peter Adams to Step In and Serve Dual...),Health

Peter Adams to Step In and Serve Dual Role

HARRISBURG, Pa., Nov. 26 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- State Insurance Commissioner Joel Ario today announced the retirement of George Hoover, deputy insurance commissioner for the state Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and the adultBasic(R) health insurance program, and said Peter Adams has been appointed to oversee the programs.

"George's dedication to helping the citizens of Pennsylvania get access to health care has spanned more than three decades, and the commonwealth is losing a great public servant who has a true passion for the people he served," Ario said.

"Last year, George successfully implemented Governor Rendell's 'Cover All Kids'expansion of the CHIP program. Under his leadership, enrollment in the program reached an all-time high at 180,701 in November, which means more than 44,000 children were able to receive quality health insurance since his tenure first began with the department."

Prior to his role as deputy insurance commissioner, Hoover worked in the Department of Public Welfare, serving 12 years directing eligibility policy for the Medical Assistance program, including strategies to improve access to health care coverage for low and limited income individuals and families, as well as reduce barriers and streamline enrollment policies and procedures to increase program access. He also directed Food Stamp eligibility policy from 1987 to 1993 and has held a number of other state and local level positions in the human services area.

Hoover is to retire on Dec. 26. Adams, the deputy insurance commissioner for the Office of Mcare, the Medicare Care Availability and Reduction of Error Fund, will add the CHIP and adultBasic(R) programs to his current duties.

"Peter has a unique skill set and background in public administration and policy management. He has worked clos
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