CHARLESTON, W.Va. — On Thursday, West Virginia Secretary of Health Dr. Arvin Singh appointed Dr. Mark McDaniel to serve as the acting state health officer for the state Department of Health.
McDaniel, who has 25 years of multidisciplinary medical experience, recently retired from the role of state Air Surgeon for the West Virginia National Guard where he advised on health policy for north of 2,000 service members.
McDaniel has also served as the Chief of Aerospace Medicine and Senior Flight Surgeon for the 130th Medical Group at the McLaughlin Air National Guard Base in Charleston. Before serving in the National Guard, McDaniel was a regional medical supervisor for AFC Urgent Care Centers in North Carolina and Virginia. He also served as a Regional Medical Director of LabCorp Inc.
In a statement, McDaniel said that this is a special role for him.
“I am extremely passionate about improving the health of West Virginians. I grew up here; I have roots here, and I know that this state can be one of the best. I look forward to working with Governor Morrisey and Secretary Singh to tackle long-standing public health issues that have plagued this state for far too long,” McDaniel said.
“Nationally, West Virginia ranks 49th in health outcomes and 46th for overall health. We struggle with obesity, chronic disease, and heart health, among many other serious health issues. The Morrisey Administration has already proven that West Virginia is ready to make pivotal health changes, and I am excited to lead this vital work.,” he continued.
As state health officer, McDaniel will be over the state’s investigation of diseases, epidemics, and endemics. He’ll also be in charge of promoting public health services and developing a state health plan.
McDaniel will now be the secretary for the WV Board of Medicine.
His duties begin on Monday.