In a move that solidifies the future of public health in Contra Costa, Dr. Grant Colfax has been tapped to helm Contra Costa Health as its new Director, starting August 19. Bringing a vast expanse of health leadership expertise and a commitment to equitable, innovative care, Dr. Colfax takes the reins with an impressive resume that includes steering San Francisco's COVID-19 response and a stint as Director of the White House Office of National AIDS Policy, as per Contra Costa County's website.
The Board Chair, Candace Andersen, didn't mince words when she said, per the Contra Costa County's website, "We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Colfax to Contra Costa County," highlighting his "visionary leadership and deep understanding of public health systems will be invaluable," as the County aims to extend healthcare access, confront entrenched health disparities and promote the overall well-being of its communities, his accession to the role comes after Dr. Ori Tzvieli, who has been serving as interim director, will stay on as the County's Health Officer, a fact for which the Supervisors are grateful.
Certified in both his medical chops and leadership cred, Dr. Colfax has a Harvard-backed education and has led a 9,000-employee-strong Department of Public Health in San Francisco. He plans to enhance the Contra Costa public healthcare system, including a full-fledged hospital, health centers, and extensive public health services for more than 1.2 million residents. "I am honored to join Contra Costa Health and to serve a community that values collaboration, compassion, and equity," Dr. Colfax stated, as cited by Contra Costa County's website.
