The Long Beach-based MemorialCare Health System has named local government relations expert Kristen Pugh as vice president of Advocacy and Government Relations at MemorialCare, the health system announced this week.
Pugh brings 22 years of experience in government relations at local, state and national levels to the role, most recently as the executive director of federal research relations at the University of California, Irvine (UCI), according to MemorialCare.
“Kristen’s tremendous expertise and accomplishments on all levels of government and with key constituents throughout Southern California will help ensure communities we serve can access high quality, affordable healthcare,” said MemorialCare General Counsel Terri Cammarano in a statement.
In her new role, Pugh will lead monitoring of legislation affecting MemorialCare, promote understanding of legislation and communicate public policy implications. The team also acts as a catalyst for constructive dialogue among lawmakers and MemorialCare hospitals, physicians, and outpatient and community-based programs to ensure adequate funding and sensible healthcare legislation.
Previously, Pugh also worked as the associate vice president of Government and Community Relations with City of Hope National Medical Center and Beckman Research Center, working on cancer care policy and legislation. She also served as the chair of Association of American Medical Colleges Government Representatives Steering Committee, and associate director of Federal Government Affairs for American Association of Nurse Anesthetists.
Pugh earned a master’s degree in Public Administration from George Mason University and a bachelor’s degree in government and politics from the University of Maryland.
Above, left: Photo courtesy of MemoricalCare.