Dr. Jeffrey Duchin, MD, was appointed as interim local health officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County on Jan. 5. Duchin is a familiar figure in the health field, having held the position of chief of the department’s Communicable Disease Epidemiology and Immunization Section since 1999 and frequently serving as a department spokesperson.

In his new role, Duchin will provide leadership in developing priorities and setting strategies for the health department, with a particular role as the key science advisor on program and policy development.

“Dr. Duchin is widely recognized as a public health leader in our community and around the country,” said Interim Director for Public Health – Seattle & King County Patty Hayes. “We’re fortunate that he’s part of our team and willing to serve in this expanded role.”

Duchin will split time between his health officer duties and his continued direction of communicable disease and immunization activities. He will also maintain an affiliation with the University of Washington as a Professor of Medicine.

As part of his health officer duties, he will work with other health officers in Washington State on health issues that cross county borders. In addition, Duchin will represent Public Health – Seattle & King County on external committees, task forces, and as a liaison to regional and national professional organizations.

“I look forward to this opportunity to support the department and having increased involvement in addressing regional health concerns,” Duchin said.

Public Health will benefit from Duchin’s considerable experience as an advisor on national public health policy. He is currently the Chair of the Public Health Committee of the Infectious Disease Society of America and has served in many other advisory roles, including the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the Institute of Medicine.

The interim local health officer reports to Patty Hayes. Prior to Duchin, the position was held by the previous director, Dr. David Fleming.