WHO WE ARE
For 25 years America’s PPO has been at the leading edge of network healthcare. Minnesota’s oldest and most respected PPO has maintained a reputation for innovation, insight, and excellence.
As an independently owned organization, we provide greater flexibility to meet change and to develop relationships in your best interests.
America’s PPO is here to serve you:
- Over 71,000 doctors and other providers
- Over 500 client and payer groups
Leadership
Nazie Eftekhari, Founder and CEO
Ms. Nazie Eftekhari is the owner and CEO of The Araz Group of companies, which includes America’s PPO, America’s TPA, America’s IME, and HealthEZ, Inc. She is a graduate of the London School of Economics, the University of Southern California’s Master’s program in International Relations and the University of Minnesota Master’s program in Health Care Administration. Ms. Eftekhari is a recognized expert, leader and innovator in the health care industry. America’s PPO, founded in 1982 as Family Health Plan, was the first Preferred Provider Organization in Minnesota and one of the first in the nation. In fact, Dr. Paul Ellwood of Interstudy, a nationally recognized think tank, coined the term PPO for her company.
Amir Eftekhari, President
Mr. Eftekhari is President of America’s PPO. His experience in managed care began 24 years ago at MetroCare National, Inc. in Portland, Oregon. He has held senior executive positions with EBP HealthPlans; August Healthcare Services, Inc; NRI Insurance Services; and First Health, with responsibilities in all aspects of managed care, including operations, sales and marketing, and medical management. Mr. Eftekhari holds a BA and an MBA from the University of Portland.
Elizabeth Vetter, Executive Vice President
Ms. Vetter joined America’s PPO as Vice President - Regional and National Networks effective June 2006 and now serves the company as Executive Vice President. She is responsible for the strategic leadership of the America’s PPO Network, America’s TPA National Networks and HealthEZ Provider Networks located in the Midwest Region and throughout the United States. With previously held positions as Sr. Director Finance – Managed Care Division for Express Scripts, Director of Finance for Allina Health System, and Contract Negotiator for HealthPartners, she brings a wealth of knowledge in finance and business strategy associated with the health care industry. Vetter holds a BS from the University of Minnesota, and an MBA from the University of Phoenix.