Francois named new director of public health

Dr. M. Rony Francois has been named director of the state's Division of Public Health.

In that role, Francois will oversee programs responsible for disease control and prevention, the reduction of injury-related deaths and disabilities and the promotion of healthier lifestyles.

“Francois’ extensive background and expertise in public health will carryout the division’s mission to promote and protect the health of Georgians by enhancing their quality of life, " said Dr. Rhonda Medows, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Community Health.

Before joining DCH, Francois served as assistant secretary of Louisiana’s Department of Health and Hospitals Office of Public Health, where he was responsible for the direction and management of the state’s public health programs with a budget of $330M.

The Division of Public Health, once part of the Georgia Department of Human Resources, moved to DCH on July 1, 2009.

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Shelia M. Poole

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