Bogen Confirmed as Pa. Health Secretary

July 02, 2024

Pennsylvania has officially confirmed Dr. Debra Bogen as its secretary of health.

Last evening, the Senate voted 42–8 to confirm Bogen’s appointment to the role.

“I look forward to continuing to focus on improving health and wellness of Pennsylvanians and working with the incredible team of public health professionals at the Department of Health and in collaboration with our sister state agencies,” Secretary Bogen said in a statement.

Bogen has served in the acting health secretary role since January 2023. Prior to her appointment, she served for nearly three years as the director of the Allegheny County Health Department and was a long-time member of the Pittsburgh-area’s medical community. Her career has included more than three decades as a primary care pediatrician.

In a statement, Bogen said her priorities have included hearing direct feedback from health professionals, stakeholders, and legislators to identify public health priorities and challenges. She cited long-term care, maternal health disparities, rural health, and emergency medicine as key focus areas. She also highlighted the formal action to limit access to xylazine and the new mobile clinics from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program local agencies for Women, Infants, and Children.

“I’m grateful for her leadership and proud she was confirmed by the Senate last night,” Governor Josh Shapiro said in a statement.

HAP congratulates Bogen on her confirmation and looks forward to continued collaboration as we advance our shared mission to support the health and well-being of all Pennsylvanians.

Additional information about Bogen’s appointment is available online.