January 20, 2026 Christy Donohue Appointed to Lead West Virginia’s Bureau for Medical Services ...

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey and the West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) have announced the appointment of Christy Donohue as Commissioner of the Bureau for Medical Services (BMS). Donohue brings decades of expertise in government health programs and proven leadership ability to her new role administering Medicaid and the West Virginia Children's Health Insurance Program (WVCHIP).

"Christy Donohue brings exceptional experience and a proven commitment to serving West Virginians," said Governor Morrisey. "She will be a strong advocate for patients, providers, and taxpayers as we continue working to ensure efficient, high-quality care for our citizens."

"West Virginia's Medicaid and WVCHIP members will be in good hands under Christy's leadership," said DoHS Secretary Alex Mayer. "With her extensive experience and expertise, she is well-equipped to serve our citizens in this important role."

"I am truly honored to accept the position as the Commissioner of the Bureau for Medical Services, said Donohue. "I am grateful for the trust placed in me by Governor Morrisey and Secretary Mayer and I look forward to working alongside such a dedicated team. With my experience, I am confident and excited to continue the mission and help take our Medicaid/CHIP program to the next level. Together, we will make a meaningful difference for the people we serve in West Virginia."

Donohue was previously Senior Vice President of The Health Plan of West Virginia, responsible for managing the Medicaid program, contract oversight, budget and rate setting, regulatory compliance, payment processes, and program/payment integrity. In that role, she worked closely with BMS and state legislators, providing her with valuable insight into state government's role in administering large-scale health insurance plans.

Donohue has also worked as Operations Manager at CNSI and Deputy Account Manager for Molina Healthcare. She has more than 33 years of experience in government programs such as Medicaid, CHIP, and DSNP. Donohue is a graduate of West Virginia State University with an associate's degree in applied science and completed the Organizational Leadership Program through Mountain State University. She is active in her local community, serving as a board member of the Tri-State Big Brothers Big Sisters, contributing to the United Way Citizen Review Committee and a 2024 graduate of Leadership WV. Donohue lives in Peytona, WV with her husband, Joe, along with their five children and seven grandchildren.