Independence Blue Cross (Independence) President and CEO Gregory E. Deavens and Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Government Markets Stephen P. Fera have been named to City & State PA’s Health Care Power 100 list for the third year in a row.
Gregory E. Deavens assumed leadership of Independence Health Group in 2021 – just as the pandemic was changing the way Americans consume and pay for health care. Independence is the parent of Independence Blue Cross, one of the nation’s largest health insurers, where Deavens had served since 2017 as executive vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer. The publication noted how under Deavens, Independence has focused on equitable and holistic health outcomes, launching initiatives to integrate physical and behavioral health and reduce racial and economic disparities. The publication also cited how Deavens recently served on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s transition leadership board.
Stephen Fera brings a community-oriented approach to his role as executive vice president of Public Affairs and Government Markets at Independence Blue Cross. Bridging health care, public policy, and social action, Fera oversees collaborations and programs aimed at expanding health care access and improving the quality of life for millions of Americans. The publication noted how under Fera’s leadership, the Independence Blue Cross Foundation has awarded more than $70 million in grant funding for public health initiative as of 2022.
The Health Care Power 100 list recognizes public officials, health care executives, innovators, academics, advocates, and activists in Pennsylvania that are conquering challenges to improve the future state of health care. The list is published in the March 27, 2023, issue of the magazine.