Palmetto State News

Governor Henry McMaster has appointed Dr. Edward Simmer as the inaugural director of the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH). Dr. Simmer previously served as the director of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) from February 2021 until its reorganization in July 2024. According to new legislation, he was required to serve as interim director for DPH until a permanent director is confirmed by the Senate in 2025.

"Dr. Edward Simmer joined DHEC in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and immediately proved to be an exceptional leader and invaluable member of Team South Carolina," stated Governor Henry McMaster. "As interim director of DPH, he has successfully guided the agency through a smooth transition, once again proving he is the right person to lead. I am grateful for his continued commitment to serving our state and know he will build upon the progress he has made in advancing public health in South Carolina."

During his tenure at DHEC, Dr. Simmer led a team of 4,000 professionals focused on public health, healthcare quality, and environmental protection. He managed the state's response to COVID-19 and natural disasters while ensuring high-quality care across healthcare facilities statewide.

“I am honored to have been nominated by Governor McMaster to serve as the first director of the South Carolina Department of Public Health,” expressed Dr. Edward Simmer. “It has been a privilege to serve the people of South Carolina for the past three and a half years, and I look forward to continuing to work with the amazing team at DPH and our many dedicated external partners to improve the health of all South Carolinians. Working together, there is nothing we cannot achieve.”

Before joining DHEC, Dr. Simmer served over 30 years in active duty with leadership roles such as Chief Medical Officer for TRICARE Health Plan and CEO at Naval Hospital Oak Harbor in Washington. He holds extensive experience in clinical leadership spanning more than 25 years.

Dr. Simmer earned his Doctorate from Saint Louis University and a Master’s degree focusing on epidemiology from Eastern Virginia Medical School/Old Dominion University Consortium along with other qualifications including board certifications.