Health Access: Amanda McAllister-Wallner Named Executive Director
Amanda McAllister-Wallner takes the helm as the new executive director of Health Access California, a pivotal move for the statewide health care consumer advocacy coalition. McAllister-Wallner, previously the interim executive director and director of the CA LGBTQ+ HHS Network, officially assumed her role on April 15, 2025. She is the first new leader in 23 years. Her extensive experience positions her to lead the association’s efforts, notably with potential federal cuts to Medi-Cal looming, and she is poised to champion the cause of health care access across the state. With a track record of expanding staff and securing significant funding for LGBTQ+ health equity, her leadership is more vital than ever. News Directory 3 is following how she will drive policy and advocacy amid these new challenges. Discover what’s next as she navigates the complex landscape of health care in California.
Health Access California Names Amanda McAllister-Wallner Executive Director
Updated June 03, 2025
SACRAMENTO, calif. — health Access California,a statewide health care consumer advocacy coalition,has appointed Amanda McAllister-Wallner as its new executive director. McAllister-Wallner, who previously served as interim executive director, officially began her role April 15, 2025. She is the first new leader in 23 years and the first to have directed the CA LGBTQ+ Health and Human Services Network.
Jim Crouch, chair of the Health Access Foundation Board, said McAllister-Wallner’s expertise and dedication make her the ideal leader for Health Access and California health care consumers.Joan Pirkle Smith, chair of the Health Access california board, added that McAllister-Wallner’s experience and vision will guide the organization through current and future challenges.
McAllister-Wallner steps into the executive director role amid national concerns about potential federal cuts to the Medi-Cal program. as a co-chair of Fight for our Health, she is positioned to lead Health Access’ advocacy efforts during this critical time. Her responsibilities include overseeing policy, organizing, communications, the LGBTQ+ HHS Network, fundraising, new program initiatives, and staff advancement.
During her time directing the CA LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network, McAllister-Wallner expanded the staff and secured over $5 million to promote LGBTQ+ health equity. She also spearheaded the development of a statewide LGBTQ+ health policy agenda, advocating for policies that improved data collection and access to LGBTQ+-affirming services. her leadership lead to multiple projects focused on reducing LGBTQ+ health disparities, including #Out4MentalHealth, We Breathe, Out About ACEs, and LGBTQ+ COVID Safety.
“I am honored to lead Health Access, an organization with a storied history of wins for California’s health care consumers,” McAllister-Wallner said. “Our health care system is facing important threats coming from Washington, and I will fight tirelessly on behalf of all Californians to defend our access to quality, affordable, and equitable health care.”
What’s next
McAllister-Wallner will focus on defending access to quality, affordable, and equitable health care for all Californians amid potential federal cuts and ongoing challenges to the health care system.Her leadership will be crucial in navigating these issues and ensuring the organization’s continued success in advocating for consumers.