100 Most Influential People in Healthcare - 2022

Smith is responsible for leading HCSC, an independent operator of Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans with nearly 17.5 million members across five states. Since taking the top job in 2020, he has made it a priority to grow the company’s Medicare Advantage market share. In August, HCSC announced plans to expand its Medicare Advantage business into another 150 counties in 2023, on top of the 90 new counties it added in 2021. Earlier this year, the company also acquired third-party administrator Trustmark Health Benefits as part of its efforts to grow offerings to commercial customers. On the tech front, the insurer will offer virtual primary care to some employers in January, which will be powered by Teladoc Health, supplementing its existing provider network. The company also invested in startup Collective Health, which created a digital platform for self-funded employers in two states.