Healthy Blue introduces Idaho-focused Medicaid solution with local leadership and proven national expertise

• By Bret Rumbeck
• Phone: (986) 224-6921
• Email:[email protected]

Boise, Idaho (July 28, 2026) - Gemstone Holdings, Inc., parent company of Blue Cross of Idaho, and Anthem Partnership Holding Company, LLC (Anthem) today announced plans to pursue participation in Idaho's upcoming Medicaid managed care contract through Healthy Blue*, a collaboration designed to meet the health needs of Idahoans through strong local leadership and proven Medicaid expertise. The organizations also announced the appointment of Matthew Bell as President of Healthy Blue Idaho, reinforcing a commitment to a locally led, Idaho-centered Medicaid solution.

Leveraging more than 80 years of experience serving Idaho communities and more than three decades of Medicaid innovation, Healthy Blue pairs Blue Cross of Idaho's local roots with Anthem's established portfolio of affiliated Medicaid plans, including deep experience serving individuals with complex medical and social needs.

As Idaho transitions to a managed care model, the state's Medicaid program is entering a period of significant change. Providers and families are focused on maintaining stability, continuity and improved outcomes while preserving strong local care relationships. Healthy Blue was designed to meet that moment.

"Blue Cross of Idaho is ready to bring a new approach to Medicaid, one that is driven by our passion for the communities we serve and backed by our proven experience," said Ray Gallagher, Chief Revenue Officer for Blue Cross of Idaho. "Our longstanding partnerships in Idaho, combined with Anthem's national Medicaid expertise, allow Healthy Blue to deliver a thoughtful, Idaho solution that supports members, providers and communities across our state."

A Medicaid Solution Built for Idaho's Future

Through Healthy Blue, Idaho Medicaid beneficiaries will gain access to a whole-person approach that simplifies healthcare, integrates physical and behavioral health and addresses root causes that impact health while strengthening local provider partnerships.

Healthy Blue's model is designed to:

• Streamline access to care by coordinating physical, behavioral and social needs
• Deliver high-quality, cost-effective services through trusted local providers, including rural and frontier communities
• Use advanced analytics to guide personalized, proactive interventions to support individual health
• Partner closely with Idaho communities to support better health

Local Leadership with Deep Idaho Experience

Healthy Blue's Idaho-focused approach is anchored by the appointment of Matthew Bell as President of Healthy Blue. Bell brings more than 20 years of healthcare leadership experience, with a career dedicated to strengthening provider relationships, improving healthcare quality and advancing sustainable healthcare solutions across Idaho. Most recently, Bell served as Idaho Market President for PacificSource Health Plans, where he led all health plan operations in the state.

"Idaho's Medicaid program plays a critical role in the health and stability of families across the state," said Matthew Bell, President of Healthy Blue Idaho. "I am honored to lead Healthy Blue and to bring a collaborative, locally driven approach that reflects Idaho's values. This is an opportunity to work alongside providers and communities to deliver a Medicaid program that improves access, strengthens outcomes, and supports long-term health for Idahoans."

Strengthening Idaho Communities

Blue Cross of Idaho's longstanding presence across all Idaho counties provides deep local insight and trusted community partnerships. Recent community investments include:

• Supporting more than 4,700 youth through Boys and Girls Clubs of Ada County
• Helping The Idaho Foodbank serve more than 17,000 individuals monthly through Mobile Pantry support
• Partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters to expand services into rural counties
• Supporting maternal health through the Idaho Diaper Bank, reaching more than 193,000 babies statewide
• Funding Boise State University School of Nursing through a workforce development endowment

As Idaho prepares to launch its Medicaid procurement process, Healthy Blue is ready to offer a locally led, data-driven, and community-focused Medicaid solution designed specifically for Idaho families.

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About Blue Cross of Idaho
Blue Cross of Idaho is part of an Idaho-based, nonprofit mutual insurance holding company group dedicated to improving the health of the communities we serve. We are the state's oldest and largest health insurer, and the only Idaho-based insurer serving the entire state. Blue Cross of Idaho offers a broad portfolio of health plans for employers of all sizes, as well as individual and Medicare plans. Our plans offer innovative solutions to meet the unique needs of Idahoans and Idaho-based employers.

About Anthem
Anthem is a lifetime, trusted health partner whose purpose is to improve the health of humanity. The company supports consumers, families, and communities across the entire healthcare journey - connecting them to the care, support, and resources they need to lead better lives. The company is recognized as a leader in Medicaid innovation, complex care management, and whole-person health support.