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University of Michigan names Anand Parekh first chief health policy officer
In his new role, he will connect research with policy, mentor students, foster collaboration, and strengthen public health leadership.
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Bhavana P - Sat, 13, Sep 2025
- 17:03 EDT
- 25
Anand Parekh / School of Public Health
The University of Michigan (U-M) School of Public Health has appointed Indian-American physician Anand Parekh as its inaugural chief health policy officer.
In his new role, Parekh will focus on translating academic research into policy impact, mentoring students and faculty, and fostering collaboration across disciplines and with the broader community.
Also read: Indian American named inaugural PETA International chief
He will also support Michigan Medicine’s advocacy and population health efforts and advise the Institute for Healthcare Policy Innovation on external relations and policy engagement, the University said in a statement.
Parekh, a graduate of the University of Michigan’s Inteflex program, has a career spanning clinical practice, public service, and policy leadership, including a decade in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, where he served as deputy assistant secretary for health and briefly as acting assistant secretary for health.
He also led initiatives at the Bipartisan Policy Center in Washington, D.C., addressing senior health, housing, the opioid epidemic, and pandemic preparedness.
“While I have ideas, I feel it’s crucial to first understand what others think is needed and where I can be most helpful,” Parekh said, emphasizing collaboration, consensus-building, and bipartisan engagement.
He highlighted the importance of addressing broad public health issues, including clean air and water, safe food, disease prevention, and healthy lifestyles, beyond traditional clinical guidance.
Parekh’s vision is reinforced by his recent book, Prevention First: Policymaking for a Healthier America, and his recognition as one of Washington, D.C.’s 500 most influential people in 2023.
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