Meet Melissa
Melissa Covert is a seasoned executive and business owner with extensive experience in the Medicaid and Medicare public sector managed care industry. With a career spanning 15 states and 15 years at North Carolina’s first and largest LME/MCO, Melissa has established a reputation for leadership and innovation in care coordination, utilization management, and clinical operations for complex populations.
As an expert in managing services for individuals with physical health needs, behavioral health conditions, traumatic brain injuries, and intellectual/developmental disabilities, Melissa has successfully led large-scale initiatives in long-term services and supports (LTSS), home and community-based services (HCBS), and Medicaid waiver programs, including 1915(b)(c) and 1115(i). Their work has included optimizing IT systems for improved clinical and operational efficiency, including the development of artificial intelligence solutions to enhance care management and prior authorization processes.
With a strong background in clinical operations, start-up and maintenance, Melissa has also played a pivotal role in Olmstead initiatives, state and federal compliance efforts, and large-scale mergers and acquisitions. As a transformational leader, they have built and mentored cross-functional teams, streamlined utilization management processes, and designed innovative programs to improve care transitions, reduce unnecessary institutionalization, and enhance member outcomes.
Holding a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, along with Health and Life Coaching certifications, Melissa, combines clinical expertise with strategic vision to drive system-wide improvements. Their approach emphasizes problem-solving, collaboration, and data-driven decision-making to advance whole-person, member-centered care.
A respected thought leader and speaker, Melissa continues to shape the future of managed care through advocacy, program development, and strategic partnerships with health plans, providers, and government agencies.