WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (NYSE: WCG) announced today that Mark Leenay, M.D., has been named chief medical director, care model, effective today.

Dr. Leenay will provide strategic leadership for the company's model of care and care management programs to increase the efficiencies and effectiveness of clinical outcomes. He will also work closely with the executive team, the chief medical directors of utilization management and quality, the local markets and key nurse executives to inform the fundamental elements of WellCare's clinical strategy.

"Dr. Leenay is an experienced physician and business leader with a demonstrated ability to design and implement programs that improve health outcomes and affordability," said Mike Radu, senior vice president, clinical operations and business development. "Throughout his career, Dr. Leenay has had a special focus on vulnerable populations, which perfectly aligns with WellCare's mission."

"I am pleased to join WellCare's efforts to bring quality care to low-income children and families, seniors and people with disabilities across this country," said Leenay. "I have spent my career focused on population health and look forward to working with our associates, customers and providers to meaningfully improve the health and quality of life of WellCare's members."

Dr. Leenay has nearly 30 years of clinical and operational experience, including 10 years of service as a chief medical officer within large health care systems. He most recently served as senior vice president and chief medical officer at Optum Global.

He earned a doctor of medicine degree from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; a master's degree in psychology from the University of Pennsylvania; and a bachelor's degree in biology from Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New York. Dr. Leenay is board certified in family medicine, geriatrics, and hospice and palliative care.

About WellCare Health Plans, Inc.

Headquartered in Tampa, Fla., WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (NYSE: WCG) focuses exclusively on providing government-sponsored managed care services, primarily through Medicaid, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, to families, children, seniors and individuals with complex medical needs. WellCare serves approximately 3.8 million members nationwide as of June 30, 2016. For more information about WellCare, please visit the company's website at www.wellcare.com or view the company's videos athttps://www.youtube.com/user/WellCareHealthPlan.