After leading the department since 2021, Michigan Department of Health and Human Safety Director Elizabeth Hertel has announced her last day will be June 30.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has selected Amy Epkey to serve as acting director of the agency.
"Amy Epkey brings decades of experience in state government and a proven record of leadership, and I am confident she will continue the important work of the Department of Health and Human Services," said Governor Whitmer. "I also want to thank Director Hertel for her dedicated service to our state. Under her leadership, MDHHS helped Michigan navigate unprecedented challenges, expanded access to health care, strengthened behavioral health services, and improved outcomes for families across our state."
Epkey previously held the senior deputy director position for the Financial Operations Administration at MDHHS, where she was responsible for overseeing the department's nearly $40 billion budget.
Hertel's departure comes as state health departments prepare to meet new federal requirements for Medicaid, which will include work requirements and more frequent redeterminations to qualify for the health insurance program.
The next Governor will appoint a permanent MDHHS Director.
