Mark Newsom, the Deputy Group Director for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has recently joined the advisory team at Avalere Health. Newsom will serve as a Managing Director and a subject matter expert on the Medicare Advantage and Part D programs.

“With increasing focus among healthcare stakeholders on the future direction of drug development, rising cost pressures, and the ongoing reorganization at federal agencies, our clients are facing significant uncertainty,” said Milena Sullivan, Practice Director, Policy Advisory. “Mark’s experience and deep knowledge of CMS policies will be invaluable in guiding clients on critical business strategies and policy decisions.”

As Deputy Group Director at CMS, Newsom co-managed six divisions, driving:

• Medicare Part D benefits policy, formulary review, medication therapy management (MTM) and plan contracting
• Medicare Advantage and Part D Stars Quality Program
• Operation of the Health Plan Management System (HPMS)

In addition to his roles at CMS, Newsom also served as a senior policy advisor at the Congressional Research Service during the development and passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In addition to his working the government sector, Newsom held senior policy and compliance roles at Humana, CVS Health, and Coventry.

“Avalere Health’s reputation in policy and market access attracts some of the best experts in the field,” said Newsom.

“Mark’s skills and experience will be invaluable to our growing portfolio of clients to both health plans and life science companies,” added Sarah Alwardt, President, Avalere Health Advisory.
The Advisory team at Avalere Health serves clients across the healthcare ecosystem, bringing actionable strategies and data-driven solutions that anticipate and adapt to the latest industry trends, reaching EVERY PATIENT POSSIBLE and creating a world where no patient is left behind.