In the Spotlight: Ricardo R. Johnson
Healthcare innovation plays a large role in furthering CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield’s (CareFirst) mission in advancing affordable, accessible, equitable and quality healthcare. Finding new and unique solutions to healthcare’s toughest challenges requires bright minds and the leadership of those willing to push boundaries. Much of the work done to innovate healthcare at CareFirst is spearheaded by Ricardo R. Johnson.
CareFirst proudly celebrates Ricardo R. Johnson and his recognition as a 2024 Modern Healthcare 40 Under 40 honoree. The award recognizes the healthcare industry’s rising stars who contribute to a culture of innovation and help their organizations achieve and exceed financial, operational and clinical goals. It is incredibly fitting for Ricardo and all that he has accomplished in his time at CareFirst.
As Executive Vice President of Strategic Growth and Government Programs, Ricardo integrates innovative solutions and benefits in CareFirst health plans, initiates strategic partnerships and steers the enterprise’s overall strategy. He also oversees emerging business and government programs—ranging from Medicare and Medicaid units to innovative initiatives and investments in care delivery, such as the CloseKnit platform—and executes new opportunities to expand lines of business and investments. He does all this with an unwavering, patient-first mindset and commitment to our mission.
Ricardo led the creation of Healthworx, CareFirst’s innovation and investment arm that has since invested $200 million in 45 ventures with solutions for underserved or aging populations, women, those with chronic conditions and more. Over the last five years, he has grown Healthworx into three main areas - Healthworx Studio, where we build and scale solutions; Healthworx Ventures, where we invest in or partner with companies, and 1501 Health, our national healthcare incubator program.
Within the past year, Ricardo spearheaded the following initiatives:
- Within Healthworx Studio: To make primary care more accessible, Ricardo’s team built CloseKnit, a 24/7 virtual-first platform that’s supported 45K+ patients with preventative and urgent care, mental health support and more. Before joining, 70% of 4,000 members were not attributed to a PCP.
- Within Healthworx Ventures: Ricardo led a significant investment in Scene Health, which has helped nearly 1.2K Medicaid members manage treatment plans for common issues include diabetes, hypertension and asthma. Within a 30-day window, 71% of members engaged in the video platform were 60% more adherent to their medication.
- Within 1501 Health: Ricardo’s team launched a pilot with Ryse Health, a value-based care solution for Type 2 Diabetes. The program serves 500 members, which has historically reduced patient’s A1c by over two points on average within 90 days.
His expertise in healthcare financing, quality improvement and population health is why Maryland Gov. Wes Moore named Ricardo a commissioner for the state’s Health Services Cost Review Commission, which works to improve care and reduce healthcare spending.
CareFirst is eager to continue to transform healthcare and support our community’s holistic health under Ricardo’s guidance. We’re looking forward to how we advance affordable, accessible and equitable healthcare for all with his demonstrated skills and talents.
Difference Makers on Ricardo
“Ricardo’s leadership and ability to cultivate and connect teams on an aligned mission has been incredible to witness. His vision empowered the start of CareFirst’s innovation and investment arm, Healthworx, which has invested $200 million in 45 ventures to do just that. And if a solution doesn’t exist, Ricardo empowers his team to build it.”
Mack McGee, Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer, CareFirst
“It is remarkable how Ricardo is able to ensure everyone around him feels valued. This creates a strong culture of innovation and inclusivity, which lays the groundwork for the inspiring, important work we do to transform healthcare delivery, access, affordability and equity.”
Angela Celestin, Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer, CareFirst
“Under Ricardo’s direction, we have made immense strides within our two years of service. We’ve started offering pop-up clinics for flu vaccinations and diagnostic exams, launched our first brick-and-mortar location at the CareFirst Engagement Center and recently forged a partnership with CareFirst Community Health Plan Maryland to serve Medicaid members. CloseKnit would not be here today, or have these tangible results, without Ricardo’s forward-thinking insight.”
Mary Jane Favazza, Chief Executive Officer, CloseKnit
To read more about Ricardo’s recognition as a 2024 Modern Healthcare 40 Under 40 honoree, click here.
