Gretchen Benson, RDN, CDCES

Gretchen Benson, RDN, CDCES has a diverse and extensive work experience in the healthcare industry. Gretchen started their career at HealthPartners in 2002 as a Phone Line Dietitian, where they provided counseling on diabetes, weight management, and heart disease. During this time, they also developed protocols for weight-loss surgery programs and participated in health fairs to promote healthy lifestyles.

In 2006, Gretchen became a Health Improvement Program Consultant at HealthPartners. Gretchen managed a team that implemented an automated email and educational series focusing on pregnancy and postpartum needs. Additionally, they served as the project coordinator for the Weigh by Day research study, which enrolled 100 employees. Gretchen also developed and implemented a weight-loss surgery phone course that became a prerequisite for surgical insurance coverage.

From 2007 to 2010, Gretchen worked as the Manager of Disease Management Services at HealthPartners. Gretchen managed a team responsible for disease management programs for heart disease, high-risk pregnancy, diabetes, and weight-loss surgery. Gretchen recruited, developed, and trained staff and mentored four employees to earn their certified diabetes educator credential.

In 2010, Gretchen joined the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation as the Manager of Healthcare Systems Integration. In this role, they led the ENHANCED randomized controlled trial evaluating supplemental coaching and medication management for patients with Type 2 diabetes. Gretchen also developed strategic priorities for the organization as a member of the leadership team and coordinated research studies from start-up to completion.

In 2018, Gretchen transitioned to the role of Population Health Program Manager at the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation. Gretchen designed and implemented health improvement programs for individuals and communities, with a focus on establishing and maintaining healthy lifestyles. Gretchen is a collaborative leader who can build rapport and trust within and across organizations.

In January 2020, Gretchen became the Program Director of Women's & Cardiovascular Health Science Centers at the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation. Gretchen'scurrent role involves overseeing programs related to women's health and cardiovascular health.

Gretchen Benson, RDN, CDCES obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Dietetics from the College of Saint Benedict.