Frisco-based Magellan Health has appointed Dr. Steven E. Pratt as chief medical officer. The September announcement marks the latest in a series of executive moves and service expansions for the behavioral health company in 2025.

Pratt, a board-certified psychiatrist, joined Magellan in 2017 and most recently served as senior medical director for the employer segment, where he oversaw clinical services across behavioral health, substance use disorder, and employee assistance programs. He later became vice president and medical director with added responsibility for the company’s quality and medical policy divisions.

“Throughout my career as a psychiatrist, I have had the opportunity to influence and improve protocols that help people live healthier and happier lives,” Pratt said in a statement. “I am honored to have been chosen for this role to not only further Magellan’s clinical mission, but to fulfill my life’s work on the importance of meaningful mental and behavioral healthcare.”

Caroline Carney, MD, is chief executive officer of Magellan Health.

Magellan CEO Dr. Caroline Carney, who was appointed to the top role in July, said Pratt brings both clinical depth and leadership experience.

“Dr. Pratt is an extraordinary clinician and healthcare leader who is known for creating a positive, inclusive, and engaging culture,” said Carney, who was chief medical officer in 2020 and president of the company’s behavioral health business in 2022. 

Carney said Pratt’s more than two decades of healthcare experience, which ranges from direct patient care to administrative oversight, will help the company further its mission of “bringing evidence-based solutions to those we serve.”

Before joining Magellan, Pratt served as executive medical director of behavioral health for the Minnesota Department of Human Services and held clinical leadership roles at UnitedHealth Group.

Pratt’s promotion follows several other leadership and program developments for Magellan this year. In January, the company named James Thornbrugh as president of Magellan Federal, its division serving the military and federal workforce.

The company has also introduced new partnerships and crisis support services. In January, Magellan partnered with Calm Health to offer members access to digital mental health screenings and guided care options through the Calm app. In September, it launched a new collaboration with Attend Behavior to support caregivers of children with autism and other developmental needs.

Magellan has also activated multiple 24-hour crisis lines in 2025, including resources for individuals impacted by wildfires in California and flooding in Texas and New Mexico.

Magellan Health was acquired by Centene Corporation in 2022 in a $2.2 billion deal.

Quincy Preston contributed to this report.

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