PAGO PAGO, American Samoa — The American Samoa Government proudly announces that Medicaid Director Luisa Kuaea has been selected as one of only six Medicaid directors nationwide to join the Medicaid Leadership Institute (MLI) Class of 2026, a prestigious program led by the Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS) with support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

 

The MLI is a 10-month executive leadership program designed to equip Medicaid directors with the tools to strengthen health care delivery and transform Medicaid programs to better serve their communities. Since its inception in 2009, the Institute has trained 89 directors representing 49 state and territorial Medicaid agencies.

 

Director Kuaea’s selection underscores American Samoa’s growing role in shaping national health care policy. Through this fellowship, she will collaborate with peers across the nation, share best practices, and bring back innovative strategies to improve health outcomes for Medicaid beneficiaries in the territory.

 

Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula congratulated Director Kuaea, stating: “This recognition not only honors Director Kuaea’s leadership but also underscores the importance of strengthening health care for the people of American Samoa. Her participation in the Medicaid Leadership Institute ensures that our territory has a strong voice in shaping the future of Medicaid.”

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Director Kuaea expressed her gratitude, saying: “It is a privilege to represent American Samoa in this national program. I look forward to learning from colleagues across the country and bringing back strategies that will help us build a stronger Medicaid program for our community.”

 

American Samoa joins Delaware, Kansas, Nebraska, Nevada, and Oregon in the MLI Class of 2026.

 

Congratulations to Director Luisa Kuaea on this national recognition.

 

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