Governor Kemp appoints Dr. Dean Burke as new DCH commissioner

Governor Brian P. Kemp has announced the appointment of Dr. Dean Burke as the new Commissioner of the Department of Community Health, effective August 1. This follows the announcement that current Commissioner Russel Carlson will transition to a position in the private sector.

"Marty, the girls, and I want to thank Dr. Burke for continuing his service to the people of our state in this new leadership position," said Governor Brian Kemp. "Given his extensive background in medicine and healthcare policy, he is uniquely qualified to fill this role at a pivotal time for this important agency. I'm confident he will demonstrate the same level of commitment as commissioner that he has shown throughout his many years of public service."

Governor Kemp also expressed gratitude towards Russel Carlson for his contributions: “I also want to thank Russel Carlson for his years of service and many contributions to the Department of Community Health. He has been a knowledgeable leader and was pivotal during the launch of the innovative Georgia Pathways to Coverage program. Our family wishes him, Anne-Marie, and their three children well in this next phase of his career."

Dr. Dean Burke is currently serving as Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Community Health, where he advises on healthcare policy and quality improvement activities across various divisions. He oversees both the State Health Benefit Plan and the State Office of Rural Health.

Burke's previous roles include representing Senate District 11, where he chaired several committees including Insurance and Labor Committee and served on multiple others such as Appropriations Committee. Before his tenure in state politics, Burke was involved with Bainbridge City Council and Lower Flint Water Council among other positions.

An alumnus of Georgia Southwestern University and Medical College of Georgia, Burke completed specialty training at Mercer University School of Medicine in Obstetrics and Gynecology, practicing for 27 years in rural Georgia.

Burke resides in Bainbridge with his wife Thea; they have two children and three grandchildren.