CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Bill Crouch, who founded a health care consulting firm in Charleston bearing his name, has been named the new secretary for the Department of Health and Human Resources, Governor-elect Jim Justice announced today.
Crouch replaces Karen Bowling, who submitted her resignation letter Dec. 14
In 1987, Crouch founded Bill J. Crouch & Associates, Inc., a health care consulting firm located in Charleston. Crouch retired from that position last June.
The announcement notes that Crouch has worked closely with state government, physicians, local providers, and hospitals across West Virginia. Crouch earned his bachelors degree from Mars Hill College in North Carolina, and his master’s degree in public health from the University of Tennessee. He’s also been on the board of directors for the West Virginia Health Care Association.
From 1983 through 1986, Crouch served as the executive director of the West Virginia Health Care Cost Review Authority. Before that he was the assistant director of the Office of Community Health Services for the West Virginia Department of Health. Crouch also owned and operated several long term care facilities in West Virginia during his long career.
“Bill Crouch has a great understanding of the health care arena and the needs of West Virginia families,” Justice stated in the announcement. “His knowledge of the health care industry will be an asset to my administration and ensure our people get quality care. We face many health care challenges and having a healthy West Virginia is critical to building a world-class workforce.”
Crouch stated, “I am honored by the appointment and excited about working with Governor-elect Justice and his administration.There will be many health care challenges in West Virginia over the next several years, and I will do all I can to help improve the health and well-being of our citizens in this great state.”
A big job is ahead.
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources is composed of five bureaus: Bureau for Behavioral Health and Health Facilities; Bureau for Child Support Enforcement; Bureau for Children and Families; Bureau for Medical Services; and Bureau for Public Health.
DHHR has a statewide presence and employs nearly 6,000 people.
Bowling’s departure statement said she would do everything possible to support the new administration.
“My heartfelt wish is for the State of West Virginia to grow and prosper in the coming years,” Bowling stated. ” I will do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition for the next administration. I believe Governor-elect Jim Justice will continue the mission to help West Virginians prosper while improving their health and well-being. I wish him and his administration much success.”