U.S. Assistant Secretary For Health Dr. Howard Koh Stepping Down

It has been announced that Dr. Howard K. Koh, previous Assistant Secretary for Health for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), will be rejoining the faculty at Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) this fall in a new position as Professor of the Practice of Public Health Leadership in the Department of Health Policy and Management.

After five years in his post at HHS, where his focus was disease prevention and oversight of the Office of the Surgeon General, Koh will be returning to the school where he taught before joining the Obama administration.

He will depart at the end of July, according to HHS, with Dr. Wanda Jones taking over his duties until a replacement is named.

“As Assistant Secretary for Health, Howard has been at the forefront of confronting the leading public health issues of our time,” said HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell in announcing Dr. Koh’s departure. “Throughout his tenure, Howard has leveraged his decades of unique experience as a clinician, educator, researcher, advocate and former state public health commissioner to bring better understanding and empathy to underserved populations.”

“Howard’s comprehensive knowledge and experience is certain to strengthen bond research and student educational experience within HSPH and our entire Harvard community,” said Harvard School of Public Health Dean Julio Frenk. “We are delighted to welcome him back to the school.”

Koh is the latest significant departure from HHS as Secretary Kathleen Sebelius stepped down last month after Burwell was confirmed to take her place in the position. CMS Principal Deputy Administrator Jonathon Blum and Director of HHS’ Office of Health Reform additionally both departed recently.