ARLINGTON, VA — July 7, 2025 — The Alliance for Safe Biologic Medicines (ASBM) today announced the retirement of longtime Board member Doug Badger, and the appointment of two new members to its Board of Directors: Cristina V. Beato, MD, and Chris Downing, both of whom previously served in senior leadership roles at the U.S. Department of Health and Services (HHS) from 2001 to 2008.
Doug Badger retires after more than a decade of service as ASBM Board President. Prior to joining the ASBM Board, Badger had a widely respected career in health policy. He served as Special Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, Deputy Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs, and Senior Health Policy Advisor to Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist. Badger was instrumental in the development and implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 leading to the creation of a prescription drug benefit for millions of seniors.
“Doug’s contributions to health policy in Washington have been immeasurable,” said Reilly. “It was a privilege to work alongside him—both in government and at ASBM. Few people can look back on their tenure in government and say that they have been personally responsible for improving the lives of millions of their fellow Americans. Doug not only improved their lives, but did so with humility.”
Dr. Cristina V. Beato is Associate Professor at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine and formerly served as Acting Assistant Secretary for Health at HHS, where she was the principal medical and scientific advisor to the Secretary. A Rear Admiral in the U.S. Public Health Service, she led federal initiatives on prevention, health equity, and public health preparedness. She also served as Chief Medical Officer at Ernst & Young, advising on global health strategy.
Chris Downing is President and CEO of the Georgia Health Care Association and brings more than 30 years of experience in public health, healthcare policy, and regulatory affairs. He held senior positions at CMS, CDC, FDA, and served in key policy roles on Capitol Hill. In the private sector, he directed federal government affairs for Enhabit Home Health & Hospice, Kindred Healthcare, and PruittHealth Corporation.
“Dr. Beato and Chris Downing bring deep expertise in public health and health policy,” said Reilly. “They have helped shape U.S. health policy from the highest levels of government and the private sector. Their insights will be invaluable as ASBM continues to advocate for policies that protect patients, empower healthcare providers, and ensure continued patient access to innovative, life-changing therapies.”
Media Contact: Ray Patnaude
media@safebiologics.org
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