RODNEY ARMSTEAD

Principal, Armstead & Esslinger Health Consultants 

Dr. Armstead is currently a Principal with Armstead & Esslinger Health Consultants, LLC focused on strategic, financial & operational planning/consultation to entities that are managing complex populations, specifically dual-eligibles (Medicare & Medicaid), patients receiving Long Term Services & Support (LTSS), Aged, Blind & Disabled (ABD) and Seniors & Persons with Disabilities (SPD) utilizing automated solutions via web to improve coordination of services, health outcomes and quality of life with sustained reduction in total medical expense trend. Prior to his current role, Dr. Armstead spent eight years with UnitedHealth Group, his last role with Optum in January 2012 to help lead the company’s initiatives focused on improving care provider collaboration, patient care quality and population health in communities. Dr. Armstead is a dedicated health care professional committed to driving quality, cost-effective health care. He previously served as president of the Northeast Region for UnitedHealthcare Community & State, and as senior vice president of the Western Region Plan Operations for the organization. Before joining UnitedHealth Group, Dr. Armstead was appointed the first director, Office of Managed Care, HCFA, Department of Health & Human Services for the William J. Clinton Administration. He also held the position of executive vice president and chief health officer for the Watts Health Foundation. A board-certified general internist, he received his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Irvine and his medical degree from Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. He is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and a fellow of the American College of Physicians. Dr. Armstead volunteers his time promoting education. Currently, he is a member of the advisory board for the Stanford Center on Longevity, Stanford, CA.