Atlanta Governor Brian Kemp declared on Monday that Dr. Dean Burke will succeed current Commissioner Russell Carlson as Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH), who is departing for a private sector role.
In a statement, Kemp stated, “[Burke] is uniquely qualified to fill this role at a pivotal time given his extensive background in medicine and healthcare policy.” I have no doubt that he will be as dedicated as the commissioner has been over the course of his many years in public service.
Burke, a former state senator and seasoned OB-GYN, is now DCH’s Chief Medical Officer. In that capacity, he has directed the State Office of Rural Health, managed the State Health Benefit Plan, and counseled agency executives on quality enhancement and healthcare policy.
Prior to entering the agency, Burke served as the senator for Senate District 11 and was a major leader on several committees, such as Appropriations and Health and Human Services. He oversaw regional hospital and healthcare initiatives in southwest Georgia and was a member of the Bainbridge City Council for five years.
Burke spent 27 years working as a gynecologist and obstetrician in rural Georgia. He has two kids and three grandchildren, and he and his wife, Thea, reside in Bainbridge.
Additionally, Governor Kemp expressed gratitude to departing Commissioner Russell Carlson for his efforts, especially during the Georgia Pathways to Coverage program’s debut. On August 1, Burke will assume the position of commissioner.
