Clayton Field Devoted Life To Health-Insurance Reform

Medicine and music were twin pillars of Clayton S. Field's life.

Orphaned at age 10, the health-care activist devoted his life to helping others weather crises while calming his own storms with music.

He worked as a business manager and volunteered in many community health and education projects. But he made his mark as president of First Choice Health Network Inc., the state's largest preferred-provider of health care.

Mr. Field, 50, died of heart failure Wednesday, April 3 after a long illness.

"He was a compassionate, caring man, that's what captured my interest in him," said his wife of 16 years, Sandra Field of Mercer Island.

"He was a Christian man, devoted to his church. He sang in an a cappella group, Matureo, for 11 years. They went to nursing homes and hospitals. He also was an organist and pianist. He had studied in Salzburg (Austria) and had a real love of music."

Mr. Field graduated from Walla Walla College in 1970. He served in the Army's Medical Service Corps until 1973, when he was discharged as a captain.

He managed Washington Physician's Service from 1973 to 1976, was vice-president of King County Medical Blue Shield from 1976 to 1985, and served as president of First Choice from 1988 to 1994.

He was passionate about health-care reform, working on the advisory council of the Washington Basic Health Plan. His goals were uniform basic health-coverage for all, an end to pre-existing-condition clauses in insurance policies, and a reduction in health-care costs.

"All three forums he supported were tossed out by the Legislature in 1995," said Randy Revelle, former King County executive. "But he remained active in reform efforts despite the setbacks."

Mr. Field was fascinated by the policy-making process.

"He was such a crisp thinker, he wanted to know how things worked, who made decisions," said Leo Greenawalt, president of the Washington State Hospital Association. "He would always help people get ahead in their jobs or whatever."

Once an avid water- and snow-skier, Mr. Field eased off as his illness progressed. But he continued to enjoy music. He was a president of Bellevue Philharmonic Orchestra.

Other survivors include his daughter, Julie Ann Field, of Bellevue, and his cousins Carol Oglevie, Ralph Field and their families.

Services were held. Remembrances may go to any charity.