Recognizing 100 CEOs & C-level Executives

Kim Bimestefer

CEO, Health First Colorado; Exec Dir, CO Dept. of Health Care Policy & Financing

State of Colorado

Location: Denver, Colorado

Founded: 2004

Industry: Insurance

Kim Bimestefer is no stranger to tackling complex challenges in healthcare. As Chief Executive Officer of Health First Colorado and Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing, she is responsible for ensuring access to high-quality, cost-effective healthcare for millions of residents. Her leadership is defined by her ability to balance policy, innovation, and strategic execution to create lasting impact in the healthcare landscape.

With over 35 years of experience in healthcare, Bimestefer has consistently led transformative initiatives. During the past three years, she has overseen substantial changes within Health First Colorado, addressing the impacts of the COVID-19 public health emergency while ensuring that Medicaid services remain effective and accessible. She has championed policies that promote equity, cost containment, and streamlined healthcare delivery, ensuring that the state’s most vulnerable populations receive the care they need.

A First-Year Titan 100 Honoree, Bimestefer has built a career on driving systemic change. She believes that collaboration is the key to solving the healthcare industry’s most pressing challenges, and she has worked extensively with government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations to build a more sustainable healthcare system. Her leadership has been instrumental in strengthening partnerships and implementing initiatives that focus on preventive care, long-term cost reduction, and improved patient outcomes.

Bimestefer is a strong advocate for continuous learning, both in her professional and personal life. If given the opportunity to master any skill instantly, she would choose to enhance collaboration and partnership-building strategies, recognizing that the best solutions in healthcare require cross-sector teamwork. Her approach to leadership emphasizes proactive engagement and the ability to bring stakeholders together to drive meaningful reform.

Looking forward, Bimestefer envisions a healthcare system that prioritizes accessibility, efficiency, and patient-centered innovation. She is leading efforts to integrate data analytics and modern technology into policy development, ensuring that Colorado’s healthcare infrastructure remains adaptive and forward-thinking. Her vision includes streamlining administrative processes, reducing healthcare disparities, and optimizing funding to ensure long-term sustainability.

Beyond her role in shaping healthcare policy, Bimestefer’s leadership has positioned her as a respected voice in the industry. She is committed to mentoring the next generation of healthcare leaders, fostering an environment where innovation and advocacy go hand in hand. Her ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes while keeping the needs of patients at the forefront has made her a formidable force in healthcare.

Her influence extends far beyond policy implementation—Bimestefer’s ability to drive reform, inspire collaboration, and advocate for equitable healthcare solutions underscores her status as a true Titan in the industry. As she continues to push for systemic improvements, her work will leave a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals and families across Colorado.

Presented by:

Did you know?

Kim is committed to mentoring the next generation of healthcare leaders, fostering an environment where innovation and advocacy go hand in hand.

JOIN OUR MAILING LIST FOR TITAN 100 ACCESS

Select your market(s)*