Today the Mississippi State Board of Health named Dr. Ed Thompson the State Health Officer for the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH).

Dr. Thompson was one of three finalists interviewed by the Board in an executive session at a special meeting earlier today. More than 200 candidates were considered for the position. The search was spearheaded by Korn-Ferry International, and the Board voted unanimously to name Dr. Thompson as the new State Health Officer.

In announcing the Board's decision, Dr. Luke Lampton, chairman, called Dr. Thompson a "medical statesman" who is truly concerned about public health in Mississippi and wants to make a difference.

"Korn-Ferry advised us that he was the most talented and experienced candidate," said Dr. Lampton. "The journey is just starting. We're going to be vigorous and aggressive in confronting health issues in Mississippi."

Dr. Thompson served as State Health Officer from 1993 to 2002, and was named Interim State Health Officer in July 2007. Since taking the helm, Dr. Thompson has made significant strides in addressing several key health concerns such as infant mortality, sexually transmitted diseases and increasing the number of public health field staff.

"We've accomplished a lot in the past few months, and we're going to continue to tackle those problems and other health issues that Mississippians face every day," said Dr. Thompson. "I'm humbled by the experience, and I thank the Board for their vote of confidence."

Dr. Thompson's new role as State Health Officer is effective immediately. The next Board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 23, 2008, in the Osborne Auditorium at the MSDH Central Office in Jackson.

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Press Contact: Liz Sharlot , Elizabeth Grey or Carol Jarvis Jones, (601) 576-7667