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(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman today announced two interim appointments within the Nebraska Health and Human Services System (HHSS) to serve in the roles to be vacated by the pending departure of Dr. Richard Raymond.
Effective July 18, Christine Peterson, Policy Secretary for HHSS, will serve as interim director of Regulation and Licensure. Dr. Blaine Shaffer, Chief Clinical Officer for HHSS Behavioral Health Services, will serve as interim Chief Medical Officer.
Dr. Raymond has filled both posts, but was recently confirmed as Undersecretary for Food Safety at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. His last day is July 18. The Governor expects to name a permanent appointment to replace Dr. Raymond in the coming weeks.
"While we are acting quickly to find a replacement for Dr. Raymond, the roles he fills for our state are too important to allow an interim period to pass without a defined leadership structure," Gov. Heineman said. "I have every confidence in Chris and Dr. Shaffer, both of whom who have worked closely with Dr. Raymond and our office."
Peterson was appointed Policy Secretary by then-Governor Mike Johanns in 1999. At the time, she was a state senator from Grand Island, representing District 35.
Peterson said, "Even though the people may change, the need for our services continues, so we have to ensure a smooth transition. I'm confident we won't miss a beat."
Dr. Shaffer became Chief Clinical Officer in 2005 when the position was created with the passage of LB 1083. He was previously professor and vice chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
Dr. Shaffer said, "I'm already familiar with the HHS System because of my involvement with behavioral health services. Even though Dr. Raymond is a tough act to follow, I'm looking forward to serving the state in this vital position."
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