ODS Hires New Medical Director

ODS has hired William E. Johnson, M.D, as the company’s newest Medical Director.

Dr. Johnson is a thoracic and vascular surgeon. He attended medical school at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. He completed his residency in general surgery at Los Angeles County Hospital+USC Medical Center, and fellowship in thoracic surgery at Beth Israel Hospital, Harvard. At ODS, Dr. Johnson will join Csaba Mera, M.D., as a second Medical Director across the health plan and will focus on utilization management activities.

“I am looking forward to working with such a high-caliber company on such an important area,” Dr. Johnson said. “I believe that by continuing to strengthen our communication among patients, providers and hospitals, we can help find solutions to improving the practice of evidence-based medicine which would enhance chronic disease management and improve the quality of healthcare.”

ODS Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer C.J. McLeod said Dr. Johnson will provide additional in-house expertise for the company.

“Dr. Johnson is highly regarded in the healthcare community,” McLeod said. “As we continue to grow, it is our goal to provide the best access to care and health expertise for our members. Dr. Johnson’s expertise and surgical background will help us better serve our members and providers.”

About ODS

ODS is a multifaceted organization that provides medical, pharmacy, dental, vision and professional liability insurance products, along with a variety of business services including benefits administration. ODS serves more than 1 million members. Founded in 1955, ODS is Oregon’s leading dental plan and one of the state’s leading medical plans. ODS is a founding member of the Delta Dental Plans Association, the nation’s largest and most experienced dental benefits provider. ODS is headquartered in Portland and has offices in Medford, Ore., Milwaukie, Ore., Bend, Ore., and La Grande, Ore., as well as in Bothell, Wash., and Anchorage, Alaska. For more information, visit www.odscompanies.com.