Wellpoint taps Rachel Chinetti as president

Wellpoint Tennessee has announced the appointment of Rachel Chinetti as president of the health plan.

Chinetti will oversee the plan, which provides managed care benefits for TennCare, the state's Medicaid program that covers approximately 1.4 million Tennesseans.

Chinetti is a Medicaid leader with nearly two decades of health care experience, including leadership roles across TennCare programs.

Most recently, she served as staff vice president in Elevance Health's government business division, leading expanded support for older adults and individuals with disabilities.

Chinetti replaces Natalie Cooper, who had served as president and CEO since March 2023.

In her new role, Chinetti will be based in Nashville and will lead the health plan's strategy and operations across Tennessee.

According to a release, she will work with state leaders, providers, advocates and community partners to drive innovation in rural health, maternal health and long-term services and supports.

"Wellpoint Tennessee has a strong legacy of partnership and innovation," Chinetti said in the release.

"I look forward to working alongside TennCare, providers, advocates, and community leaders to strengthen rural and maternal health, enhance long-term services and supports, and deliver more coordinated, person-centered care that helps our members live healthier, more independent lives."

A native of Tennessee and a graduate of Belmont University, Chinetti is a disability advocate who is involved with Our Place Nashville, a nonprofit focused on supporting adults with developmental disabilities.

Wellpoint is a subsidiary of Indianapolis-based insurance giant Elevance Health.