This Monday, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) declared that Dr. John Langefeld will take over as the state’s public health commissioner, replacing Dr. Steven Stack. On July 1, Stack will assume his new position as secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
Governor Andy Beshear commended Dr. Langefeld’s background in Medicaid services, clinical care, and health care policy.
“Dr. Langefeld has devoted his life to promoting health care as a fundamental human right,” Beshear said of Team Kentucky. I am sure that Dr. Langefeld will support us in expanding our efforts to keep Kentuckians informed, safe, and healthy because of his extensive experience and shown dedication to their health and well-being.
Every Kentuckian’s life is impacted by public health in some way, according to Stack. I am confident that Dr. Langefeld will lead the Department for Public Health with a strong commitment, compassion, and an optimistic vision for all Kentuckians to realize their full human potential. Team Kentucky has been through a lot together in recent years.
Currently, Langefeld heads Kentucky’s Health Quality Initiative at CHFS as the medical director for health insights and innovation. He was the Chief Medical Officer of the Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services and has over 30 years of experience in health care leadership.
It is a privilege to continue to serve Kentucky in this important role. According to Langefeld, my goal is to move our attention upstream, from merely curing disease to promoting health and wellbeing. Preventive screenings should be given priority, social supports should be strengthened, mental health resources should be increased, health policy should be improved through community involvement, and creative, data-driven approaches should be used. The way that the members of our communities become healthier, stronger, and more resilient will be our real indicator of success, not only the treatments we provide.
For the benefit of all Kentuckians, KDPH is in charge of creating and running state public health initiatives. By preventing adverse health outcomes, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and providing protection from illnesses, injuries, and environmental health consequences, KDPH aims to enhance the health and safety of individuals in Kentucky.
According to Langefeld, “Our work is about real people, with real lives, whose stories intersect at the intersection of policy and practice.” Every Kentuckian can experience life-changing results when we focus our efforts on actual health rather than discrete initiatives. My motivation is straightforward: I have faith in Kentucky, our people, the strength of a common goal, and the potential of group effort. Let’s work together to make sure that every heartbeat in our Commonwealth is full of life and optimism.
Originally from Kentuckia, Langefeld graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology from Berea College and then went on to receive his medical degree from the University of Louisville School of Medicine. He is a diplomat of the American Board of Family Medicine and finished his family medicine residency at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Edgewood. Dr. Langefeld and his spouse, Jessica, are parents to five kids, a Bichon, and one grandson. They like to travel and spend time with their loved ones.
As of July 1, Langefeld has been appointed Commissioner of KDPH.
For additional KDPH information, go to www.chfs.ky.gov.
Cabinet for Health and Family Services in Kentucky