After an eight-month vacancy, West Virginia has a new state health officer.
West Virginia Secretary of Health Dr. Arvin Singh appointed Dr. Mark McDaniel to the role Thursday.
“The role of state health officer is pivotal to the success of West Virginia as we work to make this beautiful state the best and healthiest place to live, to work and to thrive,” Singh said in a press release. “We thoroughly evaluated the candidates for this position and Dr. McDaniel rose to the top of the list as someone who genuinely cares for the health of West Virginians.”
McDaniel brings more than 25 years of multidisciplinary medical experience from a career in both military and civilian health care. He recently retired at the rank of colonel as the state air surgeon for the West Virginia Air National Guard, advising on health policy for more than 2,000 service members. In his civilian capacity, he is a regional medical supervisor for AFC Urgent Care Centers in North Carolina and Virginia, as well as a regional medical director of LabCorp Inc.
“I am extremely passionate about improving the health of West Virginians. I grew up here; I have roots here, and I know that this state can be one of the best,” McDaniel said in a press release. “I look forward to working with Gov. Morrisey and Secretary Singh to tackle long-standing public health issues that have plagued this state for far too long. Nationally, West Virginia ranks 49th in health outcomes and 46th for overall health. We struggle with obesity, chronic disease and heart health, among many other serious health issues. The Morrisey Administration has already proven that West Virginia is ready to make pivotal health changes, and I am excited to lead this vital work.”
The state health officer is responsible for investigating diseases, epidemics and endemics; promoting public health services; and developing a state health plan, among other duties.
The prior state health officer, Dr. Matthew Christiansen, resigned from the position in December.
