About
Melody Lawrence joined the Economic Progress Institute Board in October 2024.
Melody is currently a Lead Product Strategy Analyst with Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI). In this role, she works with cross-functional teams to oversee the design, launch, cross-functional implementation, and ongoing product management for the dually eligible population (Medicare and Medicaid). She also leads BCBSRI’s stakeholder engagement strategy and policy advocacy development for Medicaid market entry and the dual eligible product.
Mel previously served as the state’s Medicaid Policy Director. In this role, she had responsibility overseeing the state Medicaid agency’s compliance with federal and state regulations, including the amendments and renewals of the Medicaid State Plan and 1115 Demonstration Waiver, as well as the strategic direction of the Health System Transformation Project to establish accountable care organizations in RI’s Medicaid managed care delivery system. She also held roles in contract oversight of the Medicaid Managed Care Organizations and helped launch the state’s all-payer, patient-centered medical home initiative for children.
Mel is a proud native Rhode Islander who received degrees from all three of the state's public institutes of higher education. She earned an Associate Degree from the Community College of Rhode Island, where she also played soccer, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology (minor in Chemistry) from Rhode Island College, and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of Rhode Island. She is passionate about honing her leadership skills so that she can be a catalyst for improving the lives of Rhode Islanders most in need.
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