Dr. Brenda Bruns has been named Executive Medical Director for the health plan division of Group Health Cooperative.

“Dr. Bruns will play a pivotal role in our drive toward growth and affordability,” said Group Health CEO Scott Armstrong. “Her diverse background will serve her well as she helps enhance our provider relations and works closely with our group practice to promote and sustain best in-market performance.”

Bruns most recently served as chief medical officer for Health Net Plan of Oregon, a division of one of the nation’s largest publicly traded management care companies. She also served as medical director for Blue Cross of Idaho, Providence Everett Medical Center and Health First Medical Group in Portland.

“Group Health has a wonderful history and an outstanding reputation for quality care. It is taking the lead in transforming health care,” Bruns said.

A native of Eastern Washington, Bruns completed her undergraduate work at Stanford University and received her M.D. from the University of Washington Medical School. Bruns is board certified in both emergency medicine and internal medicine. She was a clinical professor at Stanford University and San Francisco General Hospital.