Connextions health services’ foray into Arizona, which is bringing about 500 jobs to the Phoenix area, was prompted by the Valley’s “talented and strong work force,” according to John Hernandez, Connextions vice president of operations, who is leading the Phoenix office. The company, part of UnitedHealth Group’s Optum health services business, works with seniors to help them understand their Medicare options. With 10,000 Americans aging into Medicare every day for the next 19 years, Connextions’ business sector is growing rapidly. The company took over a 71,000-square-foot facility in Ahwatukee for its new solution center, and moved in the end of August to the completed 40,000-square-foot first phase of the construction. The second phase will be completed this year.
“We like the density of licensed health agents within the region,” Hernandez says, explaining the need is ever growing to have consumer engagement specialists to help people navigate the questions they have about their plan and enrolling in the right plan. Not only are people taking a more active role in their healthcare, he says, but the questions are getting more complex. In addition to the consumer engagement specialists, the facility will offer employment opportunity for management and staff-level positions.
