OSMA speaks out on Stitt's removal of 'the only physicians from the OHCA Board'

TULSA, Okla. (KTUL) — Gov. Kevin Stitt removed two members from the Oklahoma Health Care Authority Board of Directors over the weekend.

The Oklahoma State Medical Association said Jean Hausheer, M.D., and Laura Shamblin, M.D., were removed Saturday afternoon.

OSMA released the following statement on Saturday from former president Dr. George Monks:

The Health Care Authority's job is to oversee more than $2 billion taxpayer dollars and serve Oklahoma's most vulnerable citizens, not rubber-stamp a governor's political agenda.

Today, the governor demonstrated the politics are vastly more important than the health of Oklahomans as he eliminated two of the three female members and the only physicians from the OHCA Board of Directors. They were the only members who have the experience and knowledge needed to lead this agency that is so essential in the delivery of healthcare to those in need.

These public servants should be applauded for speaking truth to power in their 7-1 vote to uphold the Legislature's stated intent to keep Oklahomans caring for Oklahomans. It is extremely disappointing—but sadly not surprising—that this administration would once again seek to stifle any dissent.

At the end of the day, the Legislature will still have the ultimate say, and we look forward to working with them to promote the best quality health care for our fellow Oklahomans.

Stitt released the following statement on Tuesday:

Governor Stitt welcomes Susan Dell’Osso and Gino DeMarco to the board to help make Oklahoma a top ten state for health outcomes. Susan brings a wealth of experience in leadership as the former Chief Innovation Officer for Integris Health, numerous experiences across the state’s different health systems, and a passion for serving Oklahoma communities. Gino Demarco has voluntarily left retirement to once again serve the state, bringing a unique entrepreneurial talent for innovation, growth, and development including his years as a senior executive at a Medicaid consulting and software company. The Governor is grateful for Dr. Hausheer and Dr. Shamblin’s service to the state of Oklahoma.

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