The New York Health Plan Association (HPA) Board of Directors today announced the selection of Eric Linzer
to succeed Paul Macielak as president and CEO of the organization.
Linzer comes to HPA from the Massachusetts Association of Health Plans (MAHP) where he has spent the past
15 years, most recently serving as executive vice president. His responsibilities at MAHP encompass overseeing a
wide range of operational activities as well as legislative and regulatory issues, outreach to business groups and
brokers, and media relations and communications. During his tenure, he has served on a number of state
commissions, including the Special Commission on Provider Price Reform and the Attorney General’s Advisory
Task Force on Community Benefits.
“Eric comes to HPA with a wealth of background and experience in health care and association operations,” said
Robert Hinckley, chair of the HPA Board of Directors. “At this crucial time in health care across the county, we
are confident that with his knowledge, experience and record of collaboration on sound health policy, he will be a
strong advocate for the health plans of New York and the millions of consumers these plans serve.”
“At a time of rapid change in the health care system, health plans are playing a critical role in efforts to control
costs, improve quality and drive innovation. I’m excited and honored to have the opportunity to lead HPA and
continue the work of Paul and the team in advancing our industry’s efforts to promote high-quality, affordable
care,” said Linzer. “I look forward to working collaboratively with policymakers and groups representing
providers, employers, and consumers on measures to make health care better, simpler and more affordable for
New York residents, families, businesses and the state.”
Prior to joining MAHP in 2002, Linzer was an account supervisor in the public relations division of Arnold
Worldwide and worked in the public affairs department of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care. He holds a JD from
Suffolk University Law School, a Master’s degree in Political Science from Suffolk University and earned his
Bachelor’s degree from Boston College. Linzer is also a past recipient of the Massachusetts Medical Law
Report’s Leader in Quality – Rx for Excellence Award.
Linzer and his wife, Pamela, have three teenage children, Hayes, Abigail and Megan, and a German Shephard
mix named Sarah.
He will begin in his new position at HPA at the start of the New year.