Hosford Named Pharmacy Director

December 31, 2009

DES MOINES – Matt Hosford, RPH, has been named director of pharmacy for Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

Hosford, a clinical pharmacist, joined Wellmark in 2007. He previously served as interim director of pharmacy operations. In his new role, he will lead both the clinical and operational facets of Wellmark's pharmacy program, including the processing of pharmacy claims, and efforts to manage rising drug cost trends.

"Matt's industry experience, coupled with his knowledge of pharmacy claims management, makes him an excellent choice to lead our pharmacy operations," said Paul Karazija, M.D., Wellmark's chief medical officer.

Hosford is also active in the U.S. Army Reserve, currently serving in the rank of major as a combat support officer. A veteran of the Iraq War, he was twice awarded the Bronze Star, the nation's third highest award for valor during combat.

Hosford holds a pharmacy degree from Drake University in Des Moines.

Visit www.wellmark.com for more information on Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield products and services.

About Wellmark, Inc.
Wellmark, Inc. (www.wellmark.com ) does business as Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa. Wellmark and its subsidiaries and affiliated companies, including Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Dakota and Wellmark Health Plan of Iowa, Inc., insure or pay health benefit claims for more than 2 million members in Iowa and South Dakota. Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa, Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Dakota, and Wellmark Health Plan of Iowa, Inc. are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.