Michael Warren, MD, MPH, FAAP has been appointed deputy commissioner for population health for the Tennessee Department of Health. He previously served as assistant commissioner for Family Health and Wellness, a role in which he led TDH efforts related to maternal and child health, chronic disease prevention, health promotion and supplemental nutrition.

"We are delighted Michael has accepted the challenges of this new position, knowing his knowledge, experience and integrity will help our department accelerate the progress we're making in many key population health areas," said TDH Commissioner John Dreyzehner, MD, MPH. "He is a nationally respected health leader who has helped develop and shape many family health initiatives that positively impact Tennesseans every day, and we are confident his leadership of other TDH efforts will help drive additional improvements."

As deputy commissioner, Warren will provide leadership for various offices and divisions within TDH including Family Health and Wellness; Policy, Planning and Assessment; Rural Health; Minority Health and Disparities Elimination; Health Planning; Grants Coordination and Strategic Alignment and Workforce Development.

"I'm honored to take on this new opportunity to help more Tennesseans achieve optimal health and prosperity for themselves, their families and their communities," Warren said. "We know what we do upstream now to prevent health problems can reduce healthcare needs downstream later. By strengthening and expanding our ongoing prevention, protection and improvement efforts, and implementing effective new ones, we can help more Tennesseans enjoy the benefits of good health. The promise of better health for all residents is exciting and I'm looking forward to working with TDH staff and our many partners to move Tennessee into the nation's top 10 healthiest states."

A board-certified pediatrician, Warren received his undergraduate degree from Wake Forest University and his medical degree from the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. He completed his pediatrics residency, chief residency and fellowship in academic general pediatrics at Vanderbilt University, where he also obtained a master's degree in public health. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Prior to joining TDH, Warren served as an assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics at Vanderbilt and as medical director in the Governor's Office of Children's Care Coordination. He currently serves as president-elect for the Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs, the national professional organization for maternal and child health professionals.