New York State Acting Health Commissioner Announces New Executive Deputy Commissioner

New York State acting Commissioner of Health Dr. Howard Zucker announced that Sally Dreslin, MS, RN joined the Department of Health (DOH) as Executive Deputy Commissioner on December 1. Ms. Dreslin previously served as Governor Andrew M. Cuomo's Assistant Secretary for Health. She replaces Sue Kelly, who recently retired from DOH, as Executive Deputy Commissioner.

"The New York State Department of Health is very pleased to welcome Ms. Sally Dreslin as our new Executive Deputy Commissioner," said Dr. Zucker. "Ms. Dreslin's extensive and diverse background in nursing and health policy development will be an essential asset to the Department as we continue our work to ensure the health and well-being of millions of New Yorkers."

As Assistant Secretary for Health, Ms. Dreslin reported to Governor Cuomo and Deputy Secretary for Health Courtney Burke on a wide range of issues, including all activities related to the Department of Health.

Previously, Ms. Dreslin served as the Associate Director for Policy at the New York State Nurses Association where she advocated for New York State's nurses on a wide range of topics including state health policy, budget and legislation relating to health care delivery, professional practice, nursing education and patient care. She also has an extensive background as an educator, teaching various aspects of nursing to students at institutions such as Albany Medical Center, St. Peter's Hospital, and Maria College.

Ms. Dreslin began her career has a clinical nurse at various hospitals and health care facilities in cities across the nation, including Austin, TX, Baltimore, MD, New York and Albany. Between 1998 and 2012, Ms. Dreslin also served honorably in the United States Air Force Reserve, Nurse Corps.

Ms. Dreslin has a BS in Nursing from Columbia University School of Nursing, a MA of Social/Medical Anthropology from the University of Texas at Austin, and a MS in Nursing Education.