Chris Burnett

About Chris Burnett

Dynamic and forward-thinking healthcare executive with over 15 years of experience transforming clinical operations through innovation and strategic leadership. Known for blending advanced technologies, data-driven insights, and operational excellence to deliver patient-centered, cost-effective solutions that redefine healthcare delivery. I have a proven track record of managing multimillion-dollar investment portfolios, leading cross-functional teams, and bridging payer and provider priorities to optimize care management and utilization.As the Associate Vice President of Clinical Innovation & Investments at Aetna, a CVS Health company, I established an innovation lab serving 25 million members, driving $1B in value against a $110M annual investment portfolio. My leadership in integrating generative AI across clinical operations has not only enhanced the user experience but also delivered $150M in measurable impact. My work has been recognized at the highest levels, including representing Aetna in U.S. Senate hearings on healthcare technologies.Previously at Highmark Health, I co-founded the Cancer Collaborative, aligning payer-provider strategies to reduce care costs by $40M while improving patient satisfaction. I also led a $1.2B cost-savings portfolio that streamlined medical and drug expenses and introduced market-forward technologies.My expertise spans strategic healthcare innovation, digital transformation, clinical operations, and leveraging advanced analytics to drive efficiencies. I excel in aligning technology with business objectives to improve health outcomes, reduce costs, and empower stakeholders.A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and Penn State alumnus, I bring a data-centric approach to problem-solving while maintaining a steadfast commitment to patient care and organizational success. When I\'m not working, I serve on advisory boards, including Pennsylvania State University\'s Management and Technology program, and actively contribute to community initiatives through the Woodlands Foundation.Let’s connect to explore opportunities to advance healthcare innovation and create lasting impact.

Experience

1. AVP Clinical Innovation & Investments

   CVS Health

   Mar 2023 — Present · Pittsburgh, PA, US

   Aetna, a CVS Health company, provides health insurance, pharmacy, and dental services to millions, focusing on accessible, cost-effective healthcare solutions.• Established and lead an innovation lab to overhaul clinical operations for over 25 million members, focusing on simplifying healthcare access and delivering cost-effective solutions.• Manage a $400M investment portfolio with the goal of realizing $1B in value; achieved $475M (48%) to date by aligning strategic priorities with innovative healthcare solutions.• Pioneered generative AI across clinical operations, enhancing user experience and creating $150M in realized value, demonstrating expertise in advanced healthcare technology applications.• Collaborated with CVS Health Ventures portfolio companies to design and deploy new AI-driven solutions improving operational efficiency, clinical outcomes and user experience • Represented Aetna in U.S. Senate hearings on AI and data in healthcare, showcasing thought leadership in the intersection of healthcare policy and innovation.

Education

• Penn State University

  Bachelor’s Degree, Business (Management & Finance)

  2001 — 2005