By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – There's a shake-up at the top at one of Buffalo's health insurers.
Thomas Hartnett has been fired as president and CEO of Health Now, the parent company of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Western New York. He was terminated by the Health Now board of directors Monday.
Company spokeswoman Laura Perry said there were growing differences in style and approach that could not be reconciled. But she did praise Hartnett for his contributions to the company.
"For the past seven years, Dr. Hartnett has led the organization to improved financial performance and membership growth and we appreciate his contributions," Perry said.
Perry said the change in leadership at Health Now will not affect members of Blue Cross and Blue Shield's various health plans.
"The ongoing strategic as well as day-to-day operations will be led by the Senior Management team under the direction of Cheryl Howe, Executive Vice President, Health Services and Marketing Management and James Cardone, Executive Vice President, Operations Support Services and Chief Financial Officer," Perry said. "A national search will be conducted to identify a replacement for Dr. Hartnett."
Hartnett issued a statement saying he was "deeply disappointed" at his "abrupt" termination. He said it came as a surprise.