News Release
October 23, 2013
OHCA Contacts: Jo Kilgore - (405) 522-7474, Jennie Melendez - (405) 522-7404
OHCA Announces New Medical Director
The Oklahoma Health Care Authority has added Dr. Robert D. Evans as a new medical director for the agency.
A graduate of the University of Oklahoma College Of Medicine, Evans’ internship was with the Integris Baptist Medical Center, followed by residency training in anesthesiology at the University of Oklahoma. While in residency, he served on the Residency Medical Education committee, was chief resident, and was awarded the John L. Plewes award as outstanding residency graduate.
Preferring work in community hospitals, Evans began his practice in general anesthesiology at Shawnee Regional Hospital where he practiced for 10 years. He continued to practice in the Oklahoma City area at the Edmond Regional Hospital and in a number of outpatient surgical facilities. He noted that his particular interest is with techniques utilizing local and field anesthetics with intravenous sedation for a variety of surgical procedures.
"We are excited at the Health Care Authority to have secured someone with Dr. Evans' level of expertise and commitment to serving the SoonerCare (Oklahoma Medicaid) population,” said OHCA Chief Medical Officer Sylvia Lopez, M.D. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our diverse medical staff. "
Prior to beginning medical training at OU, Evans was a college professor teaching in the fields of biology, chemistry, emergency medical technology and outdoor leisure recreation services. He was awarded a Master of Education degree by the University of Oklahoma, specializing in Instructional Design. He has extensive experience in pre-hospital emergency services.
Evans said he is excited to be able to contribute to the SoonerCare program.
“Given the rapidly changing health care environment and ongoing challenges to the Medicaid system, I hope to provide positive input into the continuing provision of quality health care to the members of SoonerCare in a cost-effective manner,” he said.
In his new position, Evans will review claims, handle prior approvals for members, and review and implement medical policy for SoonerCare, among other duties.
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