Health Information Alliance Names New Interim Executive
Healthcare providers should prepare for a strategic focus on data utilization to improve care across the Connie network.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in People
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The Health Information Alliance has appointed Chief Operating Officer Michelle Puhlick as interim executive director following the departure of Jenn Searls. The organization, which manages the statewide Connie health information network, is pivoting its strategy toward data utilization for patient care.
Why it matters
This leadership transition signals a shift for Connecticut healthcare operators as the Health Information Alliance moves from network infrastructure development toward leveraging data tools to improve care quality and access in rural regions.
The Connie network currently links more than 4,000 healthcare provider locations across Connecticut. The organization is shifting its operational focus to data-driven patient care, with no current figures provided regarding the total number of patient records exchanged.
The players
Michelle Puhlick
The current chief operating officer who has been appointed as interim executive director of the Health Information Alliance.
Jenn Searls
The former executive director who has stepped down from her leadership position at the Health Information Alliance.
Health Information Alliance
The West Hartford-based organization that manages the statewide Connie health information exchange in Connecticut.
The details
The Health Information Alliance operates a centralized data-sharing network that integrates hospitals, physicians, insurers, and public health agencies. By deploying tools like the PIQXL Gateway, introduced in February 2026, the organization automates the identification and correction of data quality issues for participating providers. The current leadership change coincides with an increased focus on the Rural Health Transformation Program to address care disparities.
Timeline
2021: The Connie network launched its information-sharing platform.
February 2026: The organization introduced the PIQXL Gateway software tool.
October 23, 2026: The leadership transition was officially announced.
Market Landscape
The transition aligns the organization's internal leadership with the objectives of the Rural Health Transformation Program. It marks a broader industry pivot from initial network deployment to the active management of clinical data quality and access.
Healthcare operators should monitor how the new leadership prioritizes the PIQXL Gateway for administrative data cleanup. Providers should assess whether the transition to data-focused services under the Rural Health Transformation Program impacts their existing integration requirements.
The takeaway
Operators should evaluate the efficiency of their data-sharing practices as the organization shifts focus toward active data usage. Monitor the Health Information Alliance for future requirements regarding the PIQXL Gateway and regional rural health initiatives.
Further reading
For additional updates on industry staffing, view the latest from Connecticut People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hartford Business Journal.
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