Rep Patterson welcomes jobs to his Tucson district

UA Science & Tech Park in SE Tucson

TUCSON -- Representative Daniel Patterson welcomed plans Thursday for a new facility from OptumRx, a unit of UnitedHealth Group, which is expected to bring at least 400 new jobs to his Tucson district 29.

“I join other leaders in welcoming OptumRx and UnitedHealth Group to my district,” Rep. Patterson said. “Tucson and Southern Arizona will benefit from these new jobs and opportunities.”

The new pharmacy-benefits customer-service center is scheduled to open in 2013. The center will handle several aspects of the company’s business including customer service, mail-order prescriptions, rebates and claims administration.

"We are strengthening the infrastructure of OptumRx in advance of a major expansion early next year, and we especially appreciate the help and support that comes from the outstanding workers and leaders of Arizona in that effort," said Larry C. Renfro, executive vice president of UnitedHealth Group and CEO of Optum, in a news release.

The company will occupy a space that is being renovated at the University of Arizona Science and Technology Park. The company will likely receive a $200,000 grant from the Arizona Competes Fund, also called the “deal closing fund” through the Arizona Commerce Authority.

“I will continue to work cooperatively for stronger economic development and jobs in Tucson,” Patterson said. "Along with better education, a stronger economy is my top priority."