DHSS becomes DOH and DFCS on July 1

On Friday, Governor Mike Dunleavy’s Executive Order 121 took effect, reorganizing the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) into the Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Family and Community Services (DFCS).

In a statement released to the press, DHSS Commissioner Adam Crum states:

“We’ve been planning and preparing for this historic day both internally and in meetings with stakeholders for many months,” adding that the work of creating two smaller departments will continue for months to come, and that DHSS is looking forward to the agility the 2 smaller departments will bring.

“We’re excited to be at this point in the process and for the path ahead.”

Governor Dunleavy has named DHSS Commissioner Adam Crum as the commissioner for DOH and Kim Kovol as the acting commissioner for DFCS.

Both departments will continue to serve Alaskans as they have before, but each department has different focus areas and missions, with DOH’s primary mission to promote the health, well-being and self-sufficiency of Alaskans.

“DOH aligns divisions that focus on payments, processes and programs. This alignment will facilitate future innovations within Medicaid and public health, improving health outcomes for all Alaskans. Oversight includes program eligibility, public health and the Medicaid program,” the press release read.

The Division of Public Health, Division of Public Assistance, Division of Behavioral Health, Division of Health Care Services and Division of Senior and Disabilities Services are the DHSS divisions forming DOH.

In the same statement, the DFCS’ mission is to provide support, safety and personal well-being for vulnerable Alaskans.

DFCS will oversee and improve the child welfare system and 24/7 facilities providing direct services to Alaskans. Divisions of DHSS that will be transitioning to DCFS are the Division of Juvenile Justice, Alaska Psychiatric Institute, Alaska Pioneer Homes and the Office of Children’s Services.

“This is an exciting time for the State of Alaska, and we realize there will be many concerns and questions as each department becomes independent,” Crum added. “DOH and DFCS are committed to providing services with no disruptions to Alaskans. This will be each department’s highest priority.”

Individuals with questions regarding the reorganization may send them via email to dhssreorg@alaska.gov.