SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 10 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Karen Vigil, a senior executive with more than twenty years of experience in the healthcare industry, has been appointed senior vice president and chief executive officer of Blue Shield of California's Individual, Small Group, and Government Business Unit (ISGBU). She has been serving as the unit's interim leader since October 2006.

Vigil originally joined Blue Shield as a consulting member of the executive team, supporting the development of the company's strategic plan between 2003 and 2005. In her new position, she is responsible for the overall operating results from products and services for individual, small group and government markets, including Medicare.

"Karen has established herself as a strategic and respected leader in this industry," said Blue Shield of California Chairman, President and CEO Bruce Bodaken. "Her significant leadership experience, knowledge of the individual, small group, and government markets, and her familiarity with our organization make her an ideal choice."

Vigil's healthcare industry experience spans 25 years, most recently as a consultant specializing in interim leadership roles within organizations. Prior to joining Blue Shield, she was the chief operating officer for Medica Health Plans in Minnesota and previously served in the same position at Premera in Washington. She is a former member of the WellPoint executive team responsible for the strategy development and implementation of the company's first public offering, and served in various capacities with Deloitte and Touche.

Vigil received a bachelor's degree in business administration from California State Polytechnic University - Pomona and is a Certified Public Accountant.

About Blue Shield of California

Blue Shield of California, an independent member of the Blue Shield Association, is a not-for-profit health plan dedicated to providing Californians with access to high quality care at a reasonable price. Founded in 1939, it now has 3.2 million members, 4,500 employees, one of the largest provider networks and more than 20 office locations, providing a wide range of commercial and government products throughout the state. The company contributes $30 million annually to the Blue Shield of California Foundation to fund nonprofit organizations that improve access to quality health care in California. Contact your local agent or broker for more information about Blue Shield products and services, or visit the Blue Shield web site at http://www.blueshieldca.com/.

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Source: Blue Shield of California

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