Dr. James McDonald was confirmed late Friday, June 9th by the NYS Senate to serve as New York State’s 18th Department of Health Commissioner. Dr. McDonald succeeds Dr. Mary Bassett, who left the role at the end of last year. Dr. McDonald, who had been serving as health commissioner in an acting capacity, was formally nominated in March by Governor Kathy Hochul. In a statement released on June 10th, Dr. McDonald statec “It is the honor of a lifetime to be confirmed as the 18th New York State Health Commissioner. I want to thank Governor Hochul and the State Senate for the trust they have placed in me in this important role. There are few things more important to people than their own health. My goal as the health commissioner is to do all I can to empower New Yorkers to live healthier lives, eliminate health disparities, increase access to affordable health care, and create healthier communities across the state. I am grateful to work with the talented, dedicated team at the Department of Health as we strive to improve public health for all New Yorkers.” CHCANYS looks forward to working with Commissioner McDonald to advance health equity and improve the health of all New Yorkers.