Secure Health Plans of Georgia, LLC (Secure Health), a Macon-based healthcare management company, announced today that Albert Ertel has become President and Chief Executive Officer.  Mr. Ertel replaces Mr. Robbin Morton, who recently retired from the position after 12 years of successful leadership.

"Thanks to the leadership of Robbin Morton, Secure Health is an integral part of our vibrant community. In his contemplative and strategic style, he earned the respect of all our stakeholders. We wish him well in retirement as we welcome Al Ertel. We are confident that the knowledge and skill that Al brings to Macon will strengthen Secure Health's foundation and continue to build its legacy, of service to the community through the outstanding skills of our physicians and other providers" said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

Mr. Ertel has had a distinguished career with over 25 years of healthcare sales, management and operations experience.  For the past eleven years, Mr. Ertel was the Chief Operating Officer for Alliant Health Plans, the only provider-founded and managed not for profit health plan operating in Georgia today.  He successfully managed all aspects of the health plan including product development, underwriting and pricing, sales and marketing, administration and customer service.

“Al Ertel is the right person at the helm of Secure Health in the years ahead.  He has the knowledge and experience needed to engage physicians, hospitals, employers and employees to serve and improve the health of our local communities,”  Mercer University School of Medicine’s Dean and Secure Health’s Chairman of the Board, Dr. William Bina III said.  “I also deeply appreciate our departing CEO, Rob Morton, as he has prepared the way forward by building the important community and personal relationships needed for success.”

Prior to coming to Alliant, Mr. Ertel worked with several managed care companies including a large national carrier whereby he initiated their entrance into the small business market and grew their book of business from 0 to over 60,000 lives. 

Mr. Ertel served on the Governors Committee for Health Insurance Exchanges, and currently serves on the Special Advisory Commission on Mandated Health Insurance Benefits and the Georgia Chamber Healthcare Policy Committee and Small Business Committee.  He has been a Licensed Life and Health agent for over 30 years. 

“As the healthcare industry continues to grapple with an enormous amount of change, the business of healthcare requires a comprehensive product line, credibility and strong relationships,” said Ertel.  “Secure Health has a great deal of potential to help our healthcare community come together in offering cost effective, quality healthcare for the people in Central Georgia as well as all over the state.”