From the Chairman of the State Board of Health

Jack O. Lanier, Dr. P.H., MHA, FACHE

The Virginia Board of Health provides leadership in public health planning and policy development for the Common-wealth and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). Board members are appointed by the governor and represent professions including medicine, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy and veterinary medicine. Members also represent constituencies such as local government, hospitals, nursing homes, managed care health insurance plans, consumers and corporate purchasers of health care.

The board is committed to serve the best interest of all Virginia residents. The programmatic initiatives of VDH and its local health departments are continually assessed to ensure that the health and well-being of Virginians is protected. Of primary interest to the Board are the public health and healthcare-related issues identified annually by the executive branch and General Assembly. The board supports VDH’s goals by promoting systems, policies and practices that facilitate the improved health of all Virginians.

The board is committed to advancing the quality of life through improved health. It implements organized, prevention-oriented programs that promote and protect the health of all Virginians. The board also serves as the primary advocate and representative of the citizens of the Commonwealth in achieving optimal health.

Chronic disease prevention and control, health promotion and primary care assurance including access to dental care. The board seeks to establish public/private partnerships to accomplish its priorities are some of the board’s top priorities.

Chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes are among the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. They carry a heavy economic cost as well. Risk factors associated with chronic disease include obesity and physical inactivity, poor nutrition and tobacco use. Reducing these risk factors is up to each individual, but public and private organizations can help.

Board members are dedicated to working with government and community partners in addressing the root causes of chronic disease and developing purposeful and strategic initiatives for meeting our goals. I look forward to working closely with my fellow Board of Health colleagues as we strive to protect, promote, and enhance the well-being of all Virginians.