As we plan for IowaHealth+ to move into the Medicare Shared Savings Plan (MSSP), an important step is including a Medicare beneficiary representative on the IowaHealth+ Board of Managers. Bill Schoenenberger, current board member of Primary Health Care and CyncHealth Iowa (formerly, the Iowa Health Information Network) joined the Board as the Medicare beneficiary member on June 1. Bill’s engagement in his community and his role on PHC’s board will make him a particularly instrumental member of our board, giving a direct voice from our consumers.
As Bill joins the Board this month, we're highlighting his background, current engagement with community health centers, and what he's most excited about in his new role.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your connection to Iowa’s community health centers:
I am currently retired. My professional career included teaching K-12 math, a testing and research specialist, and finishing as technology director. I am also a veteran and retired Army Reservist. I have lived in Iowa most of my life and live in the East Village of Des Moines. Currently, I am the Secretary for Primary Health Care's Board of Directors, Treasurer and consumer representative of CynchHealth-Iowa (formally IHIN), and serve on the board of a county political group.
What are you most excited about as you join the IowaHealth+ board?
I have been using Medicare for eight years so have some insight to services that are provided. It is exciting that IowaHeallth+ and the health centers are structuring a system that focuses on the total health of Medicare beneficiaries.
Why do you think it’s important to have a consumer voice on the board?
Often board discussions are focused on planning, reports from staff on indicators, etc., and operational issues. It is important to to have someone to ask the question of “how does this really affect the person receiving services?"
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
During my time on PHC and IHIN boards, I heard references to the Iowa PCA, INConcertCare, and IowaHealth+, but it was hard to put it all in perspective. Joining the IowaHealth+ board will expand my understanding of health services that have impact on a large population of Iowan by focusing on helping people get and stay healthy
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