Pennsylvania Department of Health Secretary confirmed after years in Acting role

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – Pennsylvania lawmakers have confirmed Dr. Debra Bogen as Secretary of the Department of Health after serving in an “Acting” role for over two years.

Governor Josh Shapiro originally announced Dr. Bogen’s nomination on January 11, 2022, prior to his inauguration. Dr. Bogen had served as the Director of the Allegheny County Health Department during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to leading the Allegheny County Health Department, Dr. Bogen was a Professor of Pediatrics, Psychiatry and Clinical and Translational Science at the University of Pittsburgh and served as Vice Chair of Education for the Department of Pediatrics at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Dr. Bogen was confirmed by the State Senate on July 1 by a 42-8 vote. All of the votes against Bogen’s nomination were made by Republicans.

“Secretary Bogen has done incredible work leading the Department of Health since the beginning of my Administration – she is working to ensure every Pennsylvanian has access to the care they need as they grow and age, has built strong relationships across the Commonwealth, and has helped keep Pennsylvanians safe in emergencies,” said Governor Shapiro. “I’m grateful for her leadership and proud she was confirmed by the Senate last night.”

During her tenure as Acting Secretary, Dr. Bogen helped create the Long-Term Care Transformation Office and the Division of Maternal Health Services. She was also credited for her work following the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, and for taking action to limit access to the sedative xylazine.

“I am deeply honored and humbled by Governor Shapiro’s unwavering confidence and the bipartisan support of the Pennsylvania Senate,” said Secretary Bogen. “I look forward to continuing to focus on improving health and wellness of Pennsylvanians and working with the incredible team of public health professionals at the Department of Health and in collaboration with our sister state agencies.”

Dr. Bogen earned her medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine and completed both her pediatric residency and General Academic Pediatrics fellowship at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

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