Medicare Rights Center Names Frederic Riccardi President
–Joe Baker to Step Down and Serve as President Emeritus– 

New York, NY—The Medicare Rights Center announced today that Frederic Riccardi, Medicare Rights Center’s Vice President of Client Services, has been appointed President, effective May 1, 2019.

“Fred Riccardi’s leadership skills, breadth of experience, dedication, and compassion made him the Board’s unanimous choice for President, as the Medicare Rights Center enters its fourth decade,” said Bruce C. Vladeck, Chair of the Medicare Rights Board of Directors. “Throughout his tenure, Fred has ensured that everyone who turns to Medicare Rights for assistance is provided timely, accurate information and counseling, and that no stone is left unturned when advocating for older adults and people with disabilities trying to get the affordable health care they need.”

A native of Syracuse, New York, Riccardi graduated from Binghamton University and holds a Masters in Social Work from the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College.

“I am thrilled to serve as the President of the Medicare Rights Center and help older adults and people with disabilities live with health, dignity, and financial security through our innovative programming and successful advocacy to improve Medicare,” said Riccardi. “While we celebrate 30 years of getting Medicare right, our work is needed more than ever, as every day we continue to hear from people with Medicare who struggle to access health care and afford their coverage.”

Joe Baker is stepping down as President of the Medicare Rights, a position he has held for a decade. He will continue to serve the organization as President Emeritus, helping to ensure a smooth leadership transition. He was also the Executive Vice President from 1994 to 2001. The Board of Directors will honor Baker for his years of dedication to the Medicare Rights Center at its 30th Anniversary Annual Awards Dinner this coming fall.

“It has been a privilege to serve the Medicare Rights Center for more than half of its 30-year history,” said Medicare Rights President Joe Baker. “I am delighted to pass the torch to Fred Riccardi. I am confident he will continue building upon the organization’s accomplishments, helping older adults and people with disabilities get the affordable health care they need and protecting and strengthening Medicare.”

Press Contact: Mitchell Clark – mclark@medicarerights.org

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