Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Names David Merritt SVP of Policy and Advocacy

WASHINGTON – Today, the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) announced that David Merritt has been named senior vice president of policy and advocacy, effective Oct. 24, 2022. In his role, Merritt will lead BCBSA’s state and federal advocacy, including lobbying, political affairs, legislative and regulatory development, as well as coalitions and industry partnerships. He will lead a team of more than 50 people in the organization’s Washington office and report to Sean Robbins, executive vice president of external affairs.

“David has a proven track record in politics, policy and public affairs in Washington and states across the country,” said Robbins. “He understands the critical issues facing patients and consumers and the solutions needed for health insurance providers to continue to support the people they serve. His leadership and experience working with Blue Plans and other industry leaders will allow him to make an immediate impact, delivering results for the one in three Americans covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield companies.”

Merritt comes to BCBSA with nearly 20 years of high-profile health care leadership experience. Merritt currently leads public affairs and strategic initiatives at America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), whose members provide health care coverage, services and solutions to hundreds of millions of Americans every day. He also serves as president of the Partnership for America’s Health Care Future and on the Board of Directors for the Campaign for Sustainable Rx Pricing. His previous experience includes leading political and messaging research for Frank Luntz; serving former HHS Secretary and Utah Governor Mike Leavitt, leading Leavitt Partners’ Washington office; and working closely with former House Speaker Newt Gingrich on health care issues.

“It is a privilege to join BCBSA and continue to drive policy solutions that make quality health care more affordable and more accessible for the people we serve,” said Merritt.  

Merritt received his bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree in political science and government from Loyola University Chicago.

About Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association is a national federation of 34 independent, community-based and locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies that collectively provide health care coverage for one in three Americans.

 

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is an association of 35 independent, locally operated Blue Cross and/or Blue Shield companies.