Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price, MD, July 7 appointed Brenda Fitzgerald, MD, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director. Dr. Fitzgerald has served as the Georgia Department of Public Health Commissioner and state health officer since 2011.
In his statement, Secretary Price noted, “Having known Dr. Fitzgerald for many years, I know that she has a deep appreciation and understanding of medicine, public health, policy and leadership – all qualities that will prove vital as she leads the CDC in its work to protect America’s health 24/7.”
Dr. Fitzgerald will succeed Tom Frieden, MD, MPH, who resigned in January after serving for eight years. Acting Director Anne Schuchat, MD, will return to her role as CDC Principal Deputy Director.