Verda is a Medicare Advantage plan with a unique focus: serving underserved communities, particularly Asian-American, Hispanic-American, and Arab-American populations. Their goal is to offer culturally sensitive healthcare that truly meets the needs of these communities.
This article provides a complete overview of Verda, including its mission, leadership, and the key features of its plans. We’ll also explain the importance of understanding in-network versus out-of-network care when choosing a Verda plan.
Who is Verda Healthcare?
Verda Healthcare is a relative newcomer to the Medicare Advantage scene.
Company mission and target audience
Verda Healthcare’s stated mission is to make healthcare more accessible, affordable, and culturally appropriate for underserved communities. The company’s business plan is targeted toward Asian-American, Hispanic-American, and Arab-American populations.
Verda’s goal is to offer Medicare Advantage plans that take into account the unique needs of these communities, including culturally relevant services and bilingual staff and resources.
Leadership and expertise
Verda’s leadership team is composed of experienced healthcare professionals with backgrounds in executive management, medicine, and HMO plans.
Many of the executives at Verda have a history of success in the Medicare Advantage market, and some have co-founded and led multiple Medicare health plans.
Key People Behind Verda
Verda’s leadership comes from diverse backgrounds in medicine, engineering, and business. Here are some of the people who are guiding the company.
Founders and Board Members
Frank S. Vo, one of Verda’s founders, also co-founded Honored Citizens Choice Health Plan, Easy Choice Health Plan, and Astiva Health, all Medicare plans. Other board members include:
- Viet T. Dao, M.D.
- Thinh H. Tran, M.D., MBA
- Henriette Rieffel, M.S., P.E.
- James T. Kim, M.D.
- Jose Pelayo, DC
Executive Team
Christopher Bond, Verda’s Chief Growth Officer, previously worked at SCAN Health Plan, where he helped the organization grow its membership significantly, adding 287,000 members.
Other key members of the executive team include Dorothy Chan, MBA, Dr. Tri Tong, Marc Carren, Tariq Brown, Pranab Rout, MBA, and Howard Saner.
Understanding Verda Health Plan of Texas
Like most health insurance plans, Verda Health Plan of Texas has a network of providers you can see for care. It’s important to understand how the plan works so you can get the most from your coverage.
In-network vs. out-of-network care
With Verda, it’s important to choose a primary care physician (PCP). For routine care, you’ll generally need to see providers who are in the plan’s network. If you go outside the network, you’ll likely have to pay the full cost yourself, because Medicare and Verda Health Plan of Texas usually don’t cover out-of-network care.
Exceptions to the in-network rule
There are a few times when you can get care outside the network and still have it covered. These include emergencies, urgent care, and if you need renal dialysis when you’re traveling outside your service area.
Verifying provider network status
Before you get care, it’s a good idea to check if the provider is in the Verda network. You can look in the Provider Directory or call the Member Experience Team. Just keep in mind that the list of covered drugs (Formulary), pharmacy network, and provider network can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Verda a female name?
Yes, Verda is generally considered a female name. While names can sometimes be gender-neutral, Verda is overwhelmingly used for girls and women. It’s a relatively uncommon name, which can make it feel unique and special. It’s also important to remember that cultural and regional naming conventions can sometimes influence gender associations.
What does the name Verda mean in Hebrew?
While the name Verda isn’t directly of Hebrew origin, it shares a conceptual meaning with Hebrew names. Verda is derived from the Latin word “viridis,” meaning “green” or “flourishing.” In Hebrew, similar concepts of flourishing life and growth are represented by names like “Chaya” (meaning “life”) or “Tamar” (referring to a date palm, a symbol of abundance). So, while not a direct translation, the essence of Verda aligns with the positive connotations of growth and vitality found in some Hebrew names.
Closing Thoughts
At Verda, we’re committed to providing you with high-quality healthcare. To get the most from your Verda plan, it’s important to understand the rules, especially when it comes to in-network and out-of-network care.
If you have questions or need help navigating your coverage, please use all the resources available to you. From the Member Handbook to the Member Experience Team, we’re here to help.