Health Commissioner Creates New Division of Minority Health and Disparity Elimination, Names Director
State Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, announces the creation of a new Division of Minority Health and Disparity Elimination within the Tennessee Department of Health and has named Cherry L. Houston, PhD, MPH, RN, to serve as director. The Division of Minority Health and Disparity Elimination will include the Offices of Minority Health, Disparity Elimination, Faith-Based Health Initiatives and Title VI.
“The reduction of health disparities attributable to race, gender, poverty and education is a priority of this administration,” said Cooper. “In order to effectively address minority health and disparity elimination, it is essential to harness the energy and consolidate resources dedicated toward these complex issues. This will allow for greater synergy, ultimately resulting in improved health outcomes for the citizens of Tennessee.”
According to the Minority Health and Health Disparities Research and Education Act of 2000, health disparities are differences in the overall rate of disease incidence, prevalence, morbidity, mortality or survival rates as compared to the health status of the general population. Disparities result in a lower overall quality of life among those impacted, their families and communities. The Tennessee Department of Health’s priorities include infant mortality, prenatal care, adolescent pregnancy, diabetes, heart disease, stroke and tobacco related illnesses.
Leading this new division is Houston, who most recently served as associate director of training and as a senior behavioral scientist for ETR Associates in Scotts Valley, Calif. There, she was responsible for the division of HIV/AIDS programs and capacity building assistance projects. Houston’s experience also includes service as executive director of Critical Learning Systems, Inc.; as a public health analyst and consultant with the California Department of Public Health’s Title I program; and as project director for San Bernardino County’s African American Health Initiative.
“I am especially pleased to name Dr. Houston to head this newly created division for the Department of Health,” said Cooper. “Her diverse work experience, education and training all make her uniquely qualified to champion this effort for the State. From coordinating activities that decrease health disparities, to serving as a public health consultant, to working as a nurse case manager, Dr. Houston is well equipped to help Tennessee achieve improved health outcomes for at risk populations.”
Houston received her Doctor of Philosophy from the University of LaSalle, where she graduated with honors. She holds her Bachelor of Science and Master of Public Health degrees from the University of Michigan. She also has a specialist certificate in administration and organizational management from Wayne State University.
“We are only as healthy as our most vulnerable populations, and with my appointment comes a great opportunity for all of us to partner to improve the health status of Tennesseans,” said Houston. “I am appreciative of the confidence Commissioner Cooper has placed in me to serve in this position. Tennessee has been making inroads toward better health, and I am privileged to direct this new division, continuing the progress that will serve to improve the quality of life for citizens of this great state.”