County Announces Dr. Lisa Hernandez as New Health Officer
County officials have selected Dr. Lisa Hernandez as the next Health Officer of Santa Cruz County. The appointment is pending approval by the Board of Supervisors.
“Dr. Hernandez is well-suited to lead the Health Services Agency through challenges and opportunities to improve the health status of county residents,” said Health Services Agency Director Mónica Morales. “In addition to her other qualifications, she is also both bicultural and bilingual and is an ideal Health Officer for the County of Santa Cruz.”
Dr. Hernandez has worked in the field of medicine and public health for 25 years. She most recently served as Public Health Officer for the City of Berkeley. “I have great affection for Santa Cruz County and its residents,” Dr. Hernandez said. “I look forward to working with the community to improve the health and wellness of all County residents.”
Prior to her tenure in Berkeley, Hernandez served as the Deputy Health Officer and Infectious Disease and Response Branch Director for the Santa Clara County Public Health Department. While there, she led the County’s essential public health services in disease control, overseeing programs such as the Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Program, Immunization and Travel Clinic, and the Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic. Additionally, she also provided guidance and direction for Public Health Preparedness, the Public Health Pharmacy, and the Public Health Laboratory.
From 2013 to 2016, Dr. Hernandez served as County Health Officer and Medical Services Director for the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency. Prior to her service in Santa Cruz County, Dr. Hernandez served as the Health Officer/Director of Public Health for the Monterey County Public Health Department.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Yale University, a Doctorate of Medicine from Georgetown University School of Medicine, and a Master of Public Health from the University of California, Berkeley. She has completed two medical residencies, one in Obstetrics and Gynecology and another in Preventive Medicine.
Once confirmed by the Board of Supervisors, Dr. Hernandez will start July 5. She will be replacing Dr. Gail Newel, who is retiring June 23.
“Dr. Hernandez is a proud mother of two college-aged children, and she and her husband are enjoying their newfound empty nest status,” according to a statement from the County.
More information about Santa Cruz County’s Health Services Agency can be found at santacruzhealth.com.
