❮ Newsmakers

Dr. James Cruz Takes the Helm as Gold Coast Health Plan’s Chief Medical Officer

Family physician, experienced health care executive, and U.S. Navy veteran will work to advance health equity for Ventura County’s most vulnerable

Gold Coast Health Plan, the local Medi-Cal plan for Ventura County, has named Dr. James Cruz as its new chief medical officer. A board-certified family physician and executive experienced in leading medical strategy and clinical teams, Dr. Cruz will oversee GCHP’s quality improvement, utilization management, care management, health equity, and pharmacy teams.

“Dr. Cruz is a mission-driven leader who is committed to improving the health outcomes and reducing the health care inequities experienced by our most vulnerable members,” said Dr. Felix Nuñez, GCHP’s chief executive officer.

Dr. Cruz joined GCHP in 2023 as senior medical director, where he focused on delivering high-quality care through an integrated and coordinated network. He has been serving as acting CMO since Aug. 2024, succeeding Dr. Nuñez, who was named CEO in May.

“I am driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to high-quality health care – no matter their background or circumstance,” Dr. Cruz said. “I am proud to bring that commitment to my role as CMO and to continue serving the Ventura County community.”

A U.S. Navy veteran and champion of medical education, Dr. Cruz currently serves as President of Latinx Physicians of California, a statewide advocacy organization. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine and completed his residency at White Memorial Medical Center in Los Angeles.