Patrick Besler leads state government relations for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. He is responsible for developing advocacy plans and health care communications for commercial and Medicaid lines of business, as well as legislation affecting employers and businesses. Patrick is passionate about public policy that promotes accessible, affordable, equitable, quality health care, and the company’s advocacy on behalf of BCBSIL members.
He has more than 10 years of experience managing regional, state, and local government efforts. In his previous role, he served as deputy director of research and appropriations for the office of House Minority Leader Jim Durkin. Prior to that he was a legislative analyst in the Illinois House of Representatives.
Patrick holds a BA in political science from the University of Illinois. He enjoys being a director on the board of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois where he supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children. He’s an active board member for the Illinois Insurance Association where he reviews and identifies regulatory and legislative trends affecting the insurance industry. Patrick enjoys spending time with his family, watching golf, and cheering on his favorite sports teams – the University of Illinois Fighting Illini and the Chicago Bears. Patrick joined the board in 2021.