Medicaid Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Medicaid has 10 executives leading key functions including policy strategy, technology infrastructure, information management, and clinical oversight.

Committed to enhancing public health access, Medicaid delivers critical resources for state programs while ensuring high-quality care for beneficiaries through robust data analytics and comprehensive technical assistance for healthcare providers nationwide.

Leadership Roles at Medicaid

  • Chief Technology Officer - Tracey Richardson
  • Chief Information Officer - Darlean Cummings
  • Chief Medical Officer - Laurence Dennis
  • Deputy Director - Mehreen Rashid
  • Deputy Director - Amber MacCarroll
  • Deputy Director - Jennifer Kostesich
  • Deputy Director - Kirsten Jensen
  • Deputy Director - Jeremy Silanskis
  • Deputy Director - Ed Dolly
  • Deputy Director - Barbara Richards
  • Tracey Richardson - Chief Technology Officer

    Tracey Richardson, the Chief Technology Officer at Medicaid, architects the digital infrastructure required to support national health program operations. Richardson directs the development of scalable cloud solutions that facilitate secure data exchange between federal and state systems. By implementing cutting-edge technology, the Chief Technology Officer enhances the efficiency of enrollment tools and eligibility verification processes. This leadership role involves overseeing the modernization of legacy systems to improve system reliability and performance. Tracey Richardson collaborates with cybersecurity teams to protect sensitive beneficiary information from emerging threats. The Chief Technology Officer drives the adoption of innovative software solutions that streamline administrative tasks for healthcare providers. Through strategic technology investments, Richardson ensures that the digital platform remains robust and responsive to the needs of millions of users. The focus remains on leveraging technology to simplify access to essential health services and improve overall program agility.

    Darlean Cummings - Chief Information Officer

    Darlean Cummings, the Chief Information Officer at Medicaid, manages the enterprise-wide information strategy and data governance framework. Cummings directs the implementation of advanced data analytics platforms that provide actionable insights into program performance and beneficiary health outcomes. By establishing rigorous data standards, the Chief Information Officer ensures the accuracy and consistency of information across all state and federal systems. This role involves overseeing the lifecycle of information assets, from collection to archival. Darlean Cummings coordinates with technical teams to optimize data storage and retrieval processes, ensuring high availability for critical decision-making. The Chief Information Officer drives the integration of disparate data sources to create a unified view of program impact. Through strategic information management, Cummings supports the organization's commitment to evidence-based policy development. The focus remains on transforming raw data into valuable intelligence that enhances the quality and accessibility of healthcare services.

    Laurence Dennis - Chief Medical Officer

    Laurence Dennis, the Chief Medical Officer at Medicaid, provides clinical leadership to ensure that health policies align with the highest standards of medical care. Dennis directs the evaluation of clinical guidelines and quality measures to improve health outcomes for beneficiaries with complex needs. By collaborating with medical experts and healthcare providers, the Chief Medical Officer identifies best practices for chronic disease management and preventative care. This leadership role involves reviewing clinical data to assess the effectiveness of treatment protocols and service delivery models. Laurence Dennis advises on the medical implications of policy changes, ensuring that all initiatives prioritize patient safety and well-being. The Chief Medical Officer drives efforts to integrate clinical expertise into the development of long-term services and supports. Through evidence-based clinical oversight, Dennis enhances the quality of care provided across the national network. The focus remains on improving health equity and ensuring that all beneficiaries receive appropriate, high-quality medical attention.
    Laurence Dennis

    Mehreen Rashid - Deputy Director

    Mehreen Rashid, the Deputy Director at Medicaid, manages the strategic implementation of federal policy guidelines across state-level programs. Rashid directs the expansion of eligibility frameworks to ensure equitable access for vulnerable populations. By coordinating with regional stakeholders, the Deputy Director optimizes the delivery of long-term services and supports. This leadership role involves analyzing complex healthcare data to refine program outcomes and improve beneficiary experiences. Mehreen Rashid maintains rigorous oversight of compliance standards to uphold federal mandates. Through consistent collaboration with state agencies, the Deputy Director drives operational efficiency in the administration of health benefits. The focus remains on simplifying enrollment processes while maintaining the integrity of the program. Ultimately, Rashid secures the stability of essential health services for millions of individuals across the United States.

    Amber MacCarroll - Deputy Director

    Amber MacCarroll, the Deputy Director at Medicaid, oversees the integration of community-based care initiatives within the national framework. MacCarroll architects programs that prioritize long-term services and supports for individuals with complex medical needs. By evaluating state-level performance metrics, the Deputy Director identifies opportunities for enhancing service delivery models. This position requires constant engagement with healthcare providers to ensure alignment with federal quality standards. Amber MacCarroll leads efforts to promote community integration, reducing reliance on institutional care settings. The Deputy Director monitors the effectiveness of these initiatives to ensure sustainable improvements in patient outcomes. Through strategic planning and resource allocation, MacCarroll strengthens the capacity of state programs to meet diverse population requirements. The leadership approach emphasizes person-centered care as the primary driver for all policy adjustments and operational improvements.

    Jennifer Kostesich - Deputy Director

    Jennifer Kostesich, the Deputy Director at Medicaid, directs the technical assistance programs provided to state governments for the Children's Health Insurance Program. Kostesich manages the development of training resources that empower state administrators to navigate complex regulatory environments. By facilitating knowledge exchange between federal and state entities, the Deputy Director ensures consistent application of program guidelines. This role involves assessing the impact of policy changes on enrollment rates and service accessibility. Jennifer Kostesich coordinates with cross-functional teams to streamline administrative workflows and reduce barriers to care. The Deputy Director evaluates the efficacy of outreach strategies to maximize participation among eligible families. Through proactive communication and guidance, Kostesich supports the successful execution of state-led health initiatives. The focus remains on fostering a responsive and efficient system that addresses the unique needs of children and families.

    Kirsten Jensen - Deputy Director

    Kirsten Jensen, the Deputy Director at Medicaid, leads the development of data-driven strategies to improve program transparency and accountability. Jensen oversees the collection and analysis of performance data to inform federal policy decisions. By leveraging advanced analytics, the Deputy Director identifies trends in healthcare utilization and cost-effectiveness across various regions. This leadership role requires close coordination with internal departments to ensure data integrity and security. Kirsten Jensen drives the implementation of reporting tools that provide states with actionable insights into their program performance. The Deputy Director monitors the progress of key initiatives to ensure alignment with the overarching mission of improving beneficiary health. Through rigorous evaluation and evidence-based planning, Jensen enhances the precision of resource distribution. The focus remains on utilizing data to foster continuous improvement and accountability within the national healthcare landscape.

    Jeremy Silanskis - Deputy Director

    Jeremy Silanskis, the Deputy Director at Medicaid, manages the operational oversight of state-level compliance with federal health regulations. Silanskis directs the review process for state plan amendments to ensure adherence to statutory requirements. By providing technical guidance, the Deputy Director assists states in navigating the complexities of program administration. This role involves mediating disputes and resolving policy ambiguities to maintain program stability. Jeremy Silanskis coordinates with legal and policy teams to interpret evolving healthcare legislation and its impact on state operations. The Deputy Director evaluates the effectiveness of current regulatory frameworks in supporting beneficiary access to care. Through consistent monitoring and feedback loops, Silanskis ensures that state programs remain aligned with federal objectives. The leadership approach prioritizes clarity, consistency, and the proactive resolution of administrative challenges to support the long-term success of the program.

    Ed Dolly - Deputy Director

    Ed Dolly, the Deputy Director at Medicaid, focuses on the financial sustainability and fiscal management of federal health programs. Dolly directs the allocation of federal funding to state agencies, ensuring that resources are distributed according to established formulas and needs. By analyzing budgetary trends, the Deputy Director identifies potential risks and develops mitigation strategies to protect program solvency. This leadership role involves collaborating with financial analysts to forecast future expenditures and evaluate the impact of policy changes on program costs. Ed Dolly monitors the fiscal performance of state programs to ensure compliance with federal spending guidelines. The Deputy Director drives initiatives to improve financial reporting accuracy and efficiency. Through strategic fiscal oversight, Dolly supports the continued availability of essential health services. The focus remains on maintaining a stable financial foundation that enables the delivery of high-quality care to all beneficiaries.

    Barbara Richards - Deputy Director

    Barbara Richards, the Deputy Director at Medicaid, oversees the stakeholder engagement strategy to foster collaboration between federal, state, and private sector partners. Richards directs communication efforts that clarify program updates and policy shifts for healthcare providers and advocacy groups. By building strong relationships with key industry leaders, the Deputy Director ensures that diverse perspectives inform the development of health policies. This role involves organizing forums and working groups to address emerging challenges in the healthcare sector. Barbara Richards manages the dissemination of critical information to ensure that all stakeholders remain informed and aligned with program goals. The Deputy Director evaluates the effectiveness of outreach programs in building trust and cooperation. Through proactive engagement, Richards strengthens the collective effort to improve health outcomes. The focus remains on creating a collaborative environment that supports the mission of providing accessible and effective healthcare services.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Medicaid Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Medicaid?
    Medicaid is led by Tracey Richardson (Chief Technology Officer), along with executives such as Darlean Cummings (Chief Information Officer) and Laurence Dennis (Chief Medical Officer).
    Who is part of Medicaid’s executive team?
    The executive team of Medicaid includes leaders such as Tracey Richardson (Chief Technology Officer), Darlean Cummings (Chief Information Officer), Laurence Dennis (Chief Medical Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Medicaid have?
    Medicaid has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Medicaid’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Medicaid includes roles such as Chief Technology Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Medical Officer, Deputy Director, Deputy Director.