AVMA GHLIT appoints Johnson director of member

The AVMA Group Health & Life Insurance Trust has hired longtime AVMA member and GHLIT trustee Dr. Jody Johnson to fill the newly created role of director of member services.

"The director of member services was established as a means to enhance service to our members," said Dr. Ted Trimmer, AVMA GHLIT chair. "Dr. Johnson's primary focus will be to oversee quality assurance for all aspects of GHLIT's operation, including serving as an advocate for AVMA members regarding the delivery and availability of coverages to members. She will serve as an adjunct to the dedicated customer service representatives who currently serve our members with claims and plan information, and will be a key resource available to handle escalated member questions and concerns."

Dr. Johnson said, "I'll be concentrating on education and stressing wellness. We've been focused on making sure veterinarians are covered with different kinds of plans. If there's a way we can be a better member benefit, we want to hear it."

As part of her quality assurance role, Dr. Johnson will monitor performance by Trust vendors and service providers, coordinating their activities to enhance the value of product offerings and their delivery to AVMA members.

Dr. Johnson will also work with Student AVMA members to help educate them about the importance of protecting the investment they are making in themselves.

An AVMA GHLIT trustee since 1994, Dr. Johnson is resigning that position, as well as her position at Hill's Pet Nutrition, where she has been involved in customer service as a clinician and veterinary consultant.

Dr. Johnson may be reached at the office of the director of member services at (877) 679-8854, beginning Nov. 1.