CARSON CITY — Gov. Brian Sandoval and Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director Mike Willden announced Friday the official appointments of Richard Whitley as administrator and Dr. Tracey Green as medical director for the Mental Health and Developmental Services Division. Whitley and Green have been serving in these capacities as interim appointees since October 2011, while concurrently serving as administrator and medical director, respectively, of the Nevada State Health Division.

Whitley and Green will continue the work they began last year to integrate public health and mental health programs into a comprehensive, coordinated service delivery system.

Joining the leadership team to help build the new public and mental health integrated model is William Chisel, who has been recruited to serve as the Divisional Chief Financial Officer. Chisel will be working closely with Whitley to help integrate the two divisions’ diverse fiscal systems. Chisel brings with him vast fiscal experience and a long career in accounting practices, internal controls and auditing. Most recently Chisel served as the director of the Department of Taxation, and previously served in the Department of Administration, Division of Internal Audits. 

Integration of mental health and public health systems is an important step in creating a comprehensive health care system that acknowledges both mind and body. The public health system has a broad agenda and there are opportunities to incorporate behavioral health in several arenas. Within public health, there is growing recognition that behavioral health issues need greater attention. Integrating mental health more fully with public health requires greater attention to mental health in traditional public health activities, increased coordination and cooperation.

In a continued effort to improve program services and functionality, Whitley, Green and Chisel will work to transition programs providing services to people with disabilities and developmental delays to the Aging and Disability Services Division. This will improve the ability to more effectively provide services over a lifespan continuum.

Director Willden also announced another addition to the Health and Human Services leadership team, filling the governor’s Consumer Health Advocate  position in the Governor’s Office for Consumer Health Assistance. Rose Park has been appointed as the new advocate, replacing Marilyn Wills who recently retired. Park is highly qualified for the position bringing with her 25 years’ experience with the Southern Nevada Area Health Education Center.