San Francisco appoints new health officer and expands population health leadership team

The San Francisco Department of Public Health (DPH) held a significant meeting on July 4, 2025, focusing on key personnel updates and the ongoing COVID-19 response. The meeting began with Director Colfax announcing several important appointments within the department, including Dr. Susan Philip as the new health officer, a position unanimously approved by the Board of Supervisors. Dr. Philip, who has been with the DPH since 2005, is recognized for her extensive work in health equity and infectious diseases.

Additionally, Dr. Rita Nguyen was appointed as the acting deputy director of population health, where she will oversee interventions related to chronic diseases. Jenny Louie was also introduced as the new chief financial officer, tasked with managing the department's budget, including the transition from COVID-19 response to recovery funding.

Following the personnel announcements, the meeting transitioned to a COVID-19 update. Director Colfax expressed cautious optimism regarding the city's pandemic status, noting a significant decrease in cases and hospitalizations. As of the meeting date, San Francisco reported over 36,000 COVID-19 cases and 537 deaths, with a notable decline in the death rate compared to other jurisdictions. Vaccination efforts have reached 72% of residents aged 16 and older receiving at least one dose, although the demand for vaccinations has begun to level off.

The meeting also addressed the city's transition into the yellow tier of COVID-19 restrictions, allowing for increased capacity in various sectors, including indoor dining and bars. The DPH is actively working to address vaccine hesitancy, particularly among younger populations, and is planning to utilize schools as potential vaccination sites.

Commissioners raised questions about strategies to engage younger residents in vaccination efforts and the importance of maintaining testing and surveillance for potential COVID-19 variants. The DPH is collaborating with local schools to ensure safe graduation ceremonies and to facilitate vaccination access for students aged 12 to 15, pending emergency use authorization.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the DPH's commitment to enhancing public health leadership and addressing ongoing challenges related to COVID-19. The department is poised to continue its efforts in vaccination outreach and community health initiatives as San Francisco navigates the next phases of the pandemic response.