S.C. Senate confirms Dr. Edward Simmer to lead DHEC

February 4, 2021

Today, the S.C. Senate confirmed Dr. Edward Simmer, MD, MPH as the director of the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

“We are grateful to the Senate for confirming Dr. Simmer to the helm of South Carolina’s public health and environmental agency during the state’s unprecedented COVID-19 response,” said Mark Elam, chairman of the S.C. Board of Health and Environmental Control. “Dr. Simmer brings with him a wealth of executive management and in-the-field medical experience through his more than 30-year naval career. His decision to continue his legacy of service with South Carolina reflects the core values of DHEC and its team of dedicated and talented employees. He is well positioned to provide the steady and able leadership needed to address the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

Dr. Simmer was selected in December by the Board to serve as the agency’s leader following a nationwide search.

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Simmer most recently served as a Captain in the U.S. Navy, where he held increasing leadership positions, including as the Chief Medical Officer for the TRICARE Health Plan and Commanding Officer and CEO at the Naval Hospital in Oak Harbor, WA. He brings with him over 25 years of extensive clinical leadership and team-building experience with a strong track record of transforming large health care systems.