MADISON, Wis. — The Wisconsin Hospital Association (WHA) is announcing two additions to its public policy and government relations team, bringing decades of experience in legislative affairs and Medicaid policy to support WHA’s member hospitals and health systems.
Abbey Rude joins WHA as Vice President of Government Relations with primary responsibilities over day-to-day lobbying with state lawmakers. During her time within state government, Rude was the lead health care policy staff for Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) – the longest-serving speaker in Wisconsin history. Rude has over a decade of legislative staff experience and, until recently, lobbied for a statewide health insurance trade association.
“Abbey is widely respected by members of the legislature and staff on both sides of the aisle due to her strong policy knowledge, communication, and interpersonal skills,” said WHA President & CEO Kyle O’Brien. “Abbey is a perfect fit to lead WHA’s day-to-day lobbying work in collaboration with the rest of our talented policy and advocacy staff.”
Rude holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and History from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She is also an alumna of the American Council of Young Political Leaders (ACYPL).
Christian Moran joins the WHA team as Senior Director Medicaid & Payer Reimbursement Policy, bringing more than a decade of experience in Medicaid policy and two decades of public service to his new role. His career includes serving in multiple leadership roles within the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) Medicaid program. Prior to his service at the Department Moran served as staff in the state legislature, including on the budget-writing Joint Finance Committee for then State Rep. Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee).
Most recently, Moran was director of the Bureau of Programs and policy at DHS, where he oversaw strategic direction and overall management of Medicaid managed care programs spanning both acute and long-term care. His previous roles at DHS include deputy director for the Bureau of Systems Management, section manager for claims operations, and section manager for hospital rate setting and policy in the Bureau of Fiscal Management.
“Christian’s deep knowledge of Wisconsin’s Medicaid program and extensive experience in reimbursement policy make him an incredible asset to WHA and our members,” said WHA President & CEO Kyle O’Brien. “He’s joining the team at a critical time for Medicaid and payer reimbursement policy, and we are excited to have his leadership as we navigate these important issues.”
Moran holds two master’s degrees — one in media studies from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and another in public affairs from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s La Follette School of Public Affairs.
“Abbey and Christian are joining a strong group of committed professionals who are some of the brightest health care policy minds in this state. They both will bring tremendous knowledge and experience to our team,” said O’Brien.
