Spotlight On: Theresa Rodriguez Scepanski, President & CEO, Community First Health Plans
Key points:
- • Hospital expansion is expected to improve healthcare access across San Antonio.
- • Community partnerships help address needs beyond traditional healthcare coverage.
- • Technology and AI are improving efficiency and strengthening member support.
October 2026 — In an interview with Invest:, Theresa Rodriguez Scepanski, president and CEO of Community First Health Plans, highlighted the connection between operational efficiency and community impact, noting that streamlined processes enable deeper engagement with members and improved support for individuals navigating their healthcare needs. “When we become more efficient, it frees up time to connect with our membership, the community, and better support those who need assistance,” Scepanski said.
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How has San Antonio’s healthcare landscape evolved over the past year, and what trends are affecting Community First Health Plans?
Looking ahead, a major transformation for the community will be the expansion of hospital infrastructure. University Health, our parent organization, is developing two new hospitals set to open in 2027, strategically located on the south and northeast sides of San Antonio.
This investment is especially impactful for underserved areas such as the south side, where access gaps have historically existed. As these facilities come online, Community First will be able to expand our provider network, increasing access to high-quality care for members across our Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace plans.
Where do you see the biggest challenges around access to care today?
A key challenge identified in the community is the complexity of navigating healthcare. For many individuals, particularly those managing chronic conditions, understanding how to access services, coordinate care, and utilize benefits can be overwhelming.
As a locally based health plan, Community First Health Plans addresses this gap through targeted education and community engagement. By providing accessible information and direct outreach, we help individuals better understand their coverage and confidently navigate the healthcare system. Recognizing that healthcare needs vary widely, our approach focuses on equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge necessary to access appropriate services and achieve better health outcomes.
How have shifts in insurance coverage affected your organization and members?
In San Antonio, we are seeing a different trend compared to other markets. Several plans offering Marketplace and Medicare coverage have exited the market due to shifting strategic priorities. This shift has created an opportunity for Community First Health Plans to expand its membership, particularly in the Marketplace, as we continue to provide locally focused, accessible coverage options. However, gaps remain for individuals who are uninsured. Many qualify for coverage but lack the information needed to enroll and navigate their benefits. Addressing this education gap is critical to ensuring individuals can access healthcare services and achieve better outcomes.
How are you helping members and families manage rising healthcare costs?
As a local, not-for-profit managed care organization, Community First Health Plans is able to approach rising healthcare costs differently. Our focus is on keeping coverage as affordable as possible for the community. This allows us to reinvest directly into services, support, and access to care, helping members and their families navigate costs while still receiving the care they need.
How important are community partnerships to improving healthcare outcomes?
Community partnerships are critical to improving healthcare outcomes. We work closely with nonprofit and community-based organizations across San Antonio to address needs such as food security, housing, transportation, and maternal support. Many of our members have needs that go beyond healthcare coverage. Our role is to help connect them with trusted community partners who can provide additional resources, ensuring a more holistic approach to care.
When individuals have access to stable housing, nutritious food, and opportunities for healthy living, they are more likely to manage health conditions effectively and avoid unnecessary emergency care. Addressing these social factors plays a key role in improving overall health outcomes.
What workforce challenges are you facing, and how are you addressing them?
Like many healthcare organizations, we are facing ongoing shortages of licensed professionals, along with increased competition for talent as systems expand. At Community First Health Plans, we place a strong emphasis on creating a positive and supportive work environment. We focus on offering competitive benefits and fostering a culture that is both rewarding and flexible for our employees. We also prioritize understanding the evolving needs of our workforce and remaining agile in how we respond. Attracting top talent is important, but retention is equally critical. Maintaining a stable, engaged workforce not only reduces the high costs associated with turnover but also strengthens the organization and enhances the services we provide for our members.
How are technology and AI influencing your operations and member experience?
Technology and AI are key drivers of operational improvement at Community First Health Plans. We leverage these tools to enhance efficiency, optimize workflows, and reduce administrative complexity. Importantly, AI enables us to shift more time and resources toward direct engagement with our membership and the community. By combining technology with a local, member-centered approach, we are able to deliver more responsive, personalized support while maintaining high-quality service.
When we become more efficient, it frees up time to connect with our membership, the community, and better support those who need assistance
What are your top priorities for Community First Health Plans over the next few years?
Our top priorities for Community First Health Plans over the next few years are centered on sustainable growth, strong financial performance, and continued community impact. Membership growth remains essential, as it supports the long-term stability and fiscal strength of the organization. At the same time, we are focused on listening to the community and ensuring we meet evolving needs through improved access to services. Maintaining a strong local presence and continuing to expand our reach in the community are also key priorities.
Together, growth, fiscal strength, and member-centered care will guide our strategy moving forward.
Is there anything else you would like to highlight about Community First Health Plans?
We are proud of the increased visibility and recognition Community First Health Plans has built through targeted branding and community engagement efforts. Feedback from business partners and community leaders underscores the effectiveness of our outreach and the growing awareness of our role in the region. Our local presence remains a key differentiator. By providing direct, in-person, and personalized support, we ensure members have meaningful access to our team. This community-based approach strengthens trust, enhances service delivery, and allows us to better support the health and well-being of those we serve.
Want more? Read the Invest: San Antonio report.
