Snohomish County Health Department Director Dennis Worsham appointed as states new Secretary of Health

Dennis Worsham has been appointed Washington's Secretary of Health by Governor Bob Ferguson, effective July 7, bringing over 30 years of experience in public health. His career began in Snohomish County during the 1990s, where he worked as a health educator amid the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Worsham aims to create a public health system that fosters trust and equitable access to care, emphasizing prevention and addressing health inequities. His leadership roles include serving as Deputy Secretary for Health and Interim Director of Public Health for Seattle & King County during the pandemic. Under his guidance, the Snohomish County Health Department has launched initiatives like the Health on Wheels van and a new STI clinic, significantly enhancing community health services.

The department also modernized its health code and improved data accessibility for public health communication. County Executive Dave Somers commended Worsham's commitment to local public health and his effective leadership amidst chronic underfunding. Worsham's appointment signals a continued focus on strengthening public health infrastructure in Washington.