About Us

Serving Our Mission

We provide coverage for a variety of customers, including:

• Individuals and families who don't have access to employer insurance or need a Medicare Supplement policy
• Employers who want to provide quality health care and affordable plan benefits and premiums to employees

As a part of our dedication to provide care and services to everyone who needs it, Avera Health Plans has participated in Healthcare.gov since it began in 2013, after passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010. Through the ACA and Healthcare.gov, individuals and families living in South Dakota can take advantage of unique benefits, such as:

• Enrollment opportunities for everyone – If you don't have insurance through an employer, you can enroll on Healthcare.gov during a set timeframe.
• Guaranteed coverage – You can no longer be denied coverage due to your health status, pre-existing illness or charged higher rates due to age or chronic conditions.
• Reduced cost – If you meet certain income requirements, you may qualify for lower monthly premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.

Avera Health Plans Board of Directors

Our Avera Health Plans Board of Directors meets quarterly. We're honored by and thankful for the following individuals who support our mission to provide affordable health care to those living in our communities.

Board Members

• Michael Bender
• Jim Dover, FACHE - Avera Health, President and CEO
• Doug Ekeren - Avera Sacred Heart Hospital, President and CEO
• Andrew Ellsworth, MD
• Julie Lautt - Avera Health, Chief Financial Officer
• David Lemperle CEO - Avera Health Plans, CEO
• Clark Likness, MD
• Clark Sinclair