Dr. Scott Harris, Alabama’s State Health Officer, has been named president of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO), the group announced Wednesday. Harris will serve as the 82nd president of the national nonprofit, which represents public health agencies across the United States.
ASTHO, which advocates for public health policies and supports the more than 100,000 professionals working in these agencies, said Harris’ leadership comes at a crucial time.
“Dr. Harris has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public health and has been a strong advocate for community health initiatives,” says ASTHO CEO Dr. Joseph Kanter.
“His broad expertise in infectious diseases, substance use, and maternal health will serve ASTHO well in the coming year. As the demands on public health continue to evolve, I am heartened knowing our organization will continue to thrive under such a capable, steady, and experienced leader. I am eager to work alongside Dr. Harris as we chart new territory.”
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In 2015, Dr. Harris left private practice to join the Alabama Department of Public Health as Area Health Officer for seven North Alabama counties. He was appointed Acting State Health Officer in September 2017 and formally designated as Alabama’s 12th State Health Officer in February 2018.
As SHO, Dr. Harris has worked to improve statewide public health through numerous health policy initiatives and community health improvement campaigns including those focused on infant mortality, opioid mitigation, and emergency preparedness. “I am honored to take on the role of ASTHO president at this critical juncture for public health,” Harris said.
“Our country continues to face many public health challenges, including opioid misuse, the re-emergence of certain vaccine-preventable diseases, and infant and maternal mortality. Now more than ever, state and territorial health departments must work together to achieve our aims of improving health, safety and wellness. Most importantly, we must do so in a way that fosters trust among the populations we serve.”
Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270
