Press Office

April 2005

FOR RELEASE:
Monday, April 11, 2005

CONTACT:
Dan Hopkins 303-866-6324
Mark Salley 303-866-6323

OWENS ANNOUNCES APPOINTEE TO STATE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE AND SERVICE ADVISORY COUNCIL

(DENVER) – Gov. Bill Owens today announced the appointment of Ramey K. Johnson of Lakewood to the State Medical Assistance and Service Advisory Council.

"Major shifts in the way health care is organized, delivered, and paid for have created increased public concern about the ability of Coloradans to obtain and maintain quality, affordable health insurance coverage," said Owens. "Ramey Johnson will undoubtedly contribute to the investigation and resolution of such issues."

Ramey served as a Colorado State Representative for two years, during which time the National Federation of Independent Business awarded her the distinguished title of Legislator of the Year. She also worked for 20 years as a health care professional and served on the State Board of Social Work Examiners as an appointee of Governor Owens.

The council assists the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing in the preparation and implementation of a comprehensive medical plan for low-income families. The council consists of 16 members, with 14 being appointed by the Governor. The members' terms expire at the pleasure of the Governor and do not need Senate confirmation.