Governor McMaster Appoints First Director of South Carolina Department of Public Health
Columbia, South Carolina — On Tuesday, Governor Henry McMaster announced the appointment of Dr. Edward Simmer as the first director of the newly established South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH). This move comes after a significant reorganization of the state’s health services, which saw the former Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) split into two separate agencies in July 2024.
Background of the Agency Changes
The restructuring aims to enhance the delivery of health services as well as provide a more focused response to public health issues. The DPH will now handle public health matters independently, while the new South Carolina Department of Environmental Services will focus on environmental protection. This split reflects a growing recognition of the distinct challenges faced by both public health and environmental services.
Dr. Simmer’s Proven Leadership
Dr. Simmer’s tenure at DHEC began in February 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. He served as the interim director of DPH following the reorganization, a role in which he showcased exceptional leadership abilities. Governor McMaster commented on Dr. Simmer’s past performance, stating, “He has successfully guided the agency through a smooth transition, once again proving he is the right person to lead.”
Importance of Public Health Leadership
The governor emphasized the importance of strong leadership in public health, especially during crises like the ongoing global pandemic and natural disasters. Dr. Simmer’s appointment is expected to facilitate continued progress in managing health challenges in the state, as he has been integral to implementing vital health policies and responses over the past few years.
Dr. Simmer’s Commitment to South Carolina
Expressing gratitude for his new role, Dr. Simmer stated, “I am honored to have been nominated by Governor McMaster to serve as the first director of the South Carolina Department of Public Health. It has been a privilege to serve the people of South Carolina for the past three and a half years.” He underscored his enthusiasm for collaborating with a dedicated team and external partners to enhance the health of residents across South Carolina.
Educational Background
Dr. Simmer possesses an impressive educational background that includes a Doctor of Medicine degree from Saint Louis University and a Master of Public Health with a focus on epidemiology from the Eastern Virginia Medical School/Old Dominion University Consortium. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hiram College. His qualifications and experience position him well to lead the agency in its objectives.
Conclusion
The formation of the South Carolina Department of Public Health represents a strategic shift in the state’s approach to health care. With Dr. Simmer at the helm, the agency is expected to build upon its existing successes and further develop programs aimed at improving community health. As South Carolina continues to navigate public health challenges, all eyes will be on DPH for leadership and effective solutions.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
