Overview of the Appointment
Priority Health has appointed Brian Steele, D.O., as its new senior vice president and chief medical officer. The Michigan-based nonprofit health plan selected Steele after conducting a thorough nationwide search. He will officially join the organization on April 6, 2026.
This leadership move marks a significant step for Priority Health. The plan, which serves 1.4 million members across Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin, continues to build its executive team with a focus on clinical excellence and affordable care delivery.
Who Is Brian Steele, D.O.?
Academic and Professional Background
Dr. Steele brings an impressive and diverse background to his new role. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Allegheny College. Subsequently, he obtained his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Beyond academics, Steele has built a distinguished career as a senior healthcare executive and business strategist. His track record spans clinical transformation, value-based care advancement, and measurable improvements in quality and affordability. Furthermore, he has delivered results across both payer and provider operations.
Most Recent Position
Most recently, Dr. Steele served as chief medical officer for Collaborative Health Systems, a Centene Corporation subsidiary. In that capacity, he led clinical strategy, quality initiatives, and provider engagement across multiple markets. He also oversaw medical management and network development programs during his tenure there.
His Role and Responsibilities at Priority Health
Leading Clinical and Pharmacy Programs
At Priority Health, Dr. Steele will take the helm of the organization’s clinical and pharmacy programs. His responsibilities extend to the development and coordination of population health initiatives. In addition, he will oversee chronic disease management strategies across all member markets.
Advancing the Mission of Affordable Care
Dr. Steele’s background in partnering with care providers directly supports Priority Health’s core mission. That mission centers on improving health outcomes, enhancing the overall member experience, and expanding access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. Moreover, his data-driven approach to clinical leadership is expected to accelerate the organization’s strategic goals.
Driving Value-Based Care
Value-based care remains a central pillar of Priority Health’s growth strategy. Accordingly, Dr. Steele’s experience in this area positions him well to lead the next phase of the plan’s expansion. His focus on reducing the cost of care while improving outcomes aligns closely with what Priority Health members need most.
What Leadership Says About the Hire
Nick Gates, president of Priority Health, expressed strong confidence in the new appointment. “Brian brings a unique blend of clinical depth, payer expertise and data-driven innovation,” said Gates. He added that Steele’s “track record in quality, affordability and operational excellence makes him an outstanding leader for the next stage of our growth.”
Dr. Steele, for his part, expressed enthusiasm about joining the organization. “Priority Health’s mission and vision to make health affordable and accessible resonate deeply with me,” he said. He also noted his intent to expand high-performing programs, advance population health, and deliver outcomes that reduce the cost of care.
About Priority Health
Priority Health has operated for 40 years and stands as the second-largest health plan in Michigan. Nationally, it ranks as the third-largest provider-sponsored health plan in the country. The organization offers a wide portfolio of health benefit options for employer groups and individuals alike.
Its coverage includes Medicare and Medicaid plans, along with a broad network of primary care physicians. Consistently, Priority Health earns recognition as a leader in quality, customer service, transparency, and product innovation. With Dr. Steele now at the helm of clinical strategy, the plan enters a new chapter with strengthened leadership and a clear focus on member outcomes.
