Feb. 4, 2015
Austin – The
Texas Medical Association (TMA) recognized David L. Lakey, MD, Texas Department
of State Health Services commissioner, for his outstanding leadership
throughout his tenure in the state’s health department.
Dr. Lakey
recently announced his departure from the agency.
“TMA physicians
are very grateful to Dr. Lakey for his unending commitment to science and
medicine to improve the health of all Texans,” said Austin I. King, MD, TMA’s
president, as he presented Dr. Lakey the TMA Presidential Award.
Dr. Lakey
became the state health commissioner in 2007, and throughout his tenure has
worked closely with TMA physician leaders, especially on matters of public
health. He frequently attends TMA’s Council on Science and Public Health
meetings, reporting on health issues from the state perspective and providing
input.
This year as
Texas faced a health crisis, Dr. Lakey’s leadership was particularly important
to patients and physicians.
“Dr. Lakey’s
leadership in informing and protecting the public health during our state’s
Ebola crisis last fall is representative of his informed, reasoned approach to
all health care crises our state has faced during his tenure,” said Dr. King. “His
exemplary guidance has
led Texas to be a leader nationally in disaster preparedness. We appreciate his contributions.”
Dr. King
presented Dr. Lakey the award during TMA’s Winter Conference meetings in
Austin.TMA is the largest state medical
society in the nation, representing more than 48,000 physician and medical
student members. It is located in Austin and has 110 component county medical
societies around the state. TMA’s key objective since 1853 is to improve the
health of all Texans.
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Contact: Pam Udall (512) 370-1382; Cell: (512) 413-6807; e-mail: pam.udall[at]texmed[dot]org
Brent Annear (512) 370-1381; Cell: (512) 656-7320;
e-mail: brent.annear[at]texmed[dot]org