Kentucky's Department of Public Health designates Dr. John Langefeld as the new Commissioner of Public Health, effective July 1.
Dr. John Langefeld has been appointed as Kentucky's Commissioner of Public Health, bringing over three decades of experience in public health leadership to the role. His extensive background includes extensive work in public health systems, demonstrated by his involvement with telehealth initiatives and rural health improvement efforts in Kentucky.
A Focus on Telehealth and Rural Health Access
As Commissioner, Dr. Langefeld's focus centers on advancing public health through innovative approaches like telehealth, aiming to expand access to care, especially in rural areas. He has been a keynote speaker at the 10th Annual Kentucky Rural Telehealth Summit, highlighting the importance of telehealth services, remote patient monitoring, and integrating virtual health to improve outcomes for complex patients and those with chronic conditions.
Addressing Public Health Challenges
Dr. Langefeld's leadership aligns with efforts to address critical public health challenges, including substance use disorder and chronic disease management, with a focus on vulnerable populations such as older adults.
A Shift from Treating Illness to Nurturing Health and Well-being
In his new role, Dr. Langefeld's measure of success will not just be the treatments delivered, but how the people in communities grow healthier, stronger, and more resilient. He plans to enhance social supports, expand mental health resources, prioritise preventive screenings, and implement innovative, data-driven strategies.
About Dr. Langefeld
Dr. Langefeld is a native Kentuckian who earned his medical degree from the University of Louisville School of Medicine and his bachelor's degree in biology from Berea College. He has served as Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services Chief Medical Officer and currently serves as the medical director for health insights and innovation at CHFS.
Dr. Langefeld's appointment as Commissioner of KDPH is effective July 1. The mission of KDPH is to improve the health and safety of people in Kentucky through prevention of negative health outcomes, promotion of healthy lifestyles, and protection from diseases, injury, and environmental health impacts. KDPH is responsible for developing and operating state public health programs and activities for all Kentuckians.
Dr. Langefeld leads Kentucky's Health Quality Initiative and completed his residency in family medicine at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Edgewood. He is a diplomat of the American Board of Family Medicine.
Dr. Langefeld's 'why' is to believe in Kentucky, in its people, in the power of shared purpose, and the promise of collective action. Gov. Andy Beshear praised Dr. Langefeld's experience in clinical care, health care policy, and Medicaid services.
Dr. Steven Stack is transitioning to the role of secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services secretary on July 1. Dr. Langefeld's wife, Jessica, and he have five children, one grandchild, and a Bichon. They enjoy traveling and spending quality time with friends and family.
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