David Merritt

David Merritt is a nationally recognized expert in health policy and health transformation, now serving as the Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Strategic Initiatives at America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP). He oversees AHIP's communications and coalitions, advocacy, and strategic initiatives on a wide range of issues, including Medicare and Medicaid, prescription drug costs, and health policy. His current role reflects his extensive experience in shaping policy discussions and strategies within the health insurance industry.

Previously, Merritt was a Managing Director at Luntz Global Partners, where he led the firm’s political and policy strategy and research. He also served as Partner and Managing Director at Leavitt Partners, advising on topics such as the Affordable Care Act and Washington politics. Additionally, he was deeply involved in the national health reform debates of 2009 and 2010, collaborating closely with Members of Congress and key media figures.

Merritt has been a health policy adviser to the presidential campaigns of Senator John McCain, former Senator Fred Thompson, and former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich. His long-standing collaboration with Gingrich includes over seven years at the Gingrich Group and as CEO of the Center for Health Transformation. He is an accomplished author, known for editing the award-winning books "Paper Kills" and its sequel "Paper Kills 2.0," which focus on transforming health and healthcare through information technology. His expertise is frequently sought in national media, with contributions published in the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and appearances on platforms like BBC News.

With a Master’s degree in government from Loyola University Chicago, Merritt continues to be a prominent speaker in the health policy arena, often addressing audiences at major institutions and companies about the evolving landscape of healthcare and policy. His balanced approach and insider's perspective make him a respected figure in discussions around the future of healthcare in America.