Dr. Annie Fuavai selected as Medicaid’s first Clinical Medical Director

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The American Samoa Medicaid State Agency announced, in a media release, dated Sept. 5, 2023, that Dr. Annie Fuavai has been hired as a clinical medical consultant serving as the first Clinical Medical Director (CMD) for the Medicaid State Agency and the Medicaid program.

Dr. Fuavai will conduct medical reviews of patient referrals that are sent to the Medicaid program. She will work closely with the Benefits Division on referrals and with the Program Integrity Division to develop procedures to carry out other federally mandated tasks including quality assurance and utilization review of providers.

Dr. Fuavai recently retired as a medical doctor with a distinguished career at the LBJ Medical Center, spanning four decades. Prior to her retirement from LBJ, she was the Assistant Chief Medical Officer, ER doctor, Chief of Medical Staff and served in the Obstetrics/ Gynecology clinic her specialty area. Dr. Fuavai brings to her position expert clinical experience and a comprehensive understanding of medical services available at LBJ and in the territory.

Medicaid Director Sandra King Young stated, “This is a significant milestone for the Medicaid program, and we are grateful that Dr. Annie Fuavai has agreed to take on this difficult role. As we continue to expand Medicaid benefits for our people and especially with the increase in off-island medical referrals, it has been necessary for the program to onboard a clinical medical director to help conduct medical reviews of patient referrals.

“This CMD/ CMO position is a required position in the American Samoa Medicaid State Plan and we are glad to be able to fill it with a highly experienced clinical doctor who understands our people, our culture and our local environment. Dr. Annie Fuavai assumes this important role this week.”