"Ellen is a seasoned healthcare professional with a deep understanding of Oklahoma's health landscape," said Governor Stitt. "With this expertise and vision, it only makes sense to have her be my advisor on all things healthcare. I'm grateful for Ellen's continued service, and I look forward to her joining my team of advisors."

Buettner was appointed CEO of OHCA in 2023 after serving as the agency’s chief of staff for four years. As CEO, she leads the one of the state’s largest appropriated agencies to administer Oklahoma’s Medicaid program, serving over 1 million Oklahomans. During her tenure, Buettner has led the agency to accomplish several monumental initiatives, including Medicaid expansion, delivery system reform, and improved access to care for low-income mothers through the enhancement of pregnancy and post-partum coverage. In 2024, the Oklahoma Legislature transferred administration of the state employee benefitsprogram to OHCA.

Prior to joining OHCA, Buettner served as the chief of legislative affairs for the Oklahoma Office of the Attorney General and held numerous administrative roles at the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, including assistant general counsel, director of human resources, and senior director of government relations and public accountability.

"I am honored and appreciative of Governor Stitt for the opportunity to serve in this capacity,” said Ellen Buettner, OHCA Chief Executive Officer. “The work we are doing across the state to address the health needs of all four million Oklahomans is of utmost importance, and I am committed to fostering collaboration across public and private sectors to lay the foundation for a healthier Oklahoma.”

Buettner earned her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Oklahoma in 2004 and 2007, respectively. She later earned a master's degree in administrative leadership in 2015 and a Ph.D. in communication in 2020 from the University of Oklahoma.

Ellen Buettner's headshot can be found here.