California Medical Association President Peter N. Bretan, Jr., M.D., issued the following statement in response to the appointment of Tomás Aragón, M.D., as director of the California Department of Public Health:

Dr. Aragón has been a leading voice for protecting public health both throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and over the course of his long career. He is a man of integrity who values public service. As Health Officer for the city and county of San Francisco, he has helped set a model for the rest of the state, and the nation, about how a densely populated city can respond and adapt to a public health crisis. He is an excellent choice to head the state’s public health department during this time when issues of public health are impacting the lives of every Californian. The selection of Dr. Aragón by Gov. Newsom is a win for all Californians, and we look forward to his continued leadership to guide our state through the COVID-19 crisis and beyond.