Oklahoma Health Care Authority Welcomes New Chief Medical Officer and Chief of Staff

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Health Care Authority welcomes Dr. Elan Gada as Chief Medical Officer and Christina Foss as Chief of Staff. 

In his role, Dr. Gada will work to advance healthcare quality, access and outcomes for more than 1.4 million Oklahomans served through the state's Medicaid and Employee and Group Insurance programs. Dr. Gada's professional experience spans primary care, hospital medicine, home-based medical care and population health across provider and payer settings. 

“Dr. Gada's clinical background and focus on population health make him a strong addition to our team as we work to improve outcomes for the Oklahomans who rely on SoonerCare," said Aaron Morris, OHCA Interim CEO. 

Prior to joining OHCA, Dr. Gada held physician executive leadership roles overseeing large-scale population health programs and innovative care delivery initiatives across multiple states. His experience includes clinical oversight for more than 250,000 individuals enrolled in Medicaid and Medicare Dual-Eligible and Chronic Condition Special Needs Plans. He has also developed and implemented programs designed to improve access and enhance outcomes for patients with complex medical needs. 

“I'm honored to be part of the important work happening at OHCA,” said Dr. Gada. “I'm committed to helping build a system that is accessible, accountable and one that truly serves the individuals, families and communities who call Oklahoma home.”  

Christina Foss previously served as State Medicaid Director and Chief of Staff at OHCA and has held roles with the Oklahoma Department of Labor and the U.S. House of Representatives.  

In her new role, Foss will provide executive leadership on Medicaid strategy, policy and programs, and cross-functional strategic initiatives while overseeing government relations, communications and stakeholder engagement. 

“Christina's knowledge of Medicaid and how OHCA operates is essential to our leadership team, and I'm excited to have her back on board," said Aaron Morris, OHCA Interim CEO. "Her collaborative approach and deep institutional experience are already proving to be a tremendous asset as we tackle the priorities ahead.”  

“It’s a privilege to be back at OHCA,” Foss said. “The opportunity to serve the people of Oklahoma is one I’ve never taken for granted, and I’m honored to return to an agency with such an incredibly talented and dedicated team. I look forward to working alongside our team and partners to strengthen the important work happening at OHCA and ensure we continue delivering the best possible service and outcomes for Oklahomans.” 

###