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John Ohanian has been appointed Policy Advisor for Data Exchange at the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), Gov. Newsom’s office announced on Tuesday.

Ohanian has served since 2020 as Chief Data Officer and Director at the Center for Data Insights at the California Health and Human Services Agency. Before that, he spent 13 years as President and Chief Executive Officer of 211 San Diego and Community Information Exchange, according to the announcement.

He previously held leadership roles with the Alzheimer’s Association, San Diego Chapter, and the Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego.

The DHCS is advancing health information exchange and data sharing to improve the care and outcomes for Californians as the state continues its shift toward data-driven, value-based health care, says its website. The agency describes data sharing as “foundational to care coordination” and essential to whole-person care programs.