December 2, 2022

 NYS Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett released the
following statement via press release:

“I have submitted my resignation as New York State Health Commissioner
effective January 1, 2023, when I will return to the Harvard Chan School of
Public Health.

This was a very difficult decision. I have tremendous admiration for the
work our staff has done during a very difficult year responding to COVID,
mpox, polio and the day-to-day challenges of protecting New Yorkers health.
I am leaving now so the next commissioner can have the chance to lead this
great department for a full 4-year term under the leadership of Gov. Hochul.
I am grateful that the Governor gave me the opportunity to serve as
commissioner, and I know that the department and public health will be in
good hands thanks to her leadership and the incredible talent and dedication
of the staff. Though I am moving back to Massachusetts, I will always be a
New Yorker, and I look forward to cheering on the department’s
accomplishments in the coming years.”