Governor Maura Healey has appointed Dr. Kiame Mahaniah as Secretary of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS). Dr. Mahaniah has served as Undersecretary of Health at EOHHS since April 2023 and is a practicing physician specializing in addiction and primary care. He previously served as CEO of the Lynn Community Health Center. Outgoing Secretary Kate Walsh will transition to a new role as senior advisor to the Governor on health and human services matters. Her appointment follows a distinguished 40-year career in health care leadership, including 13 years as CEO of Boston Medical Center.
Dr. Mahaniah assumes leadership at a pivotal time, as EOHHS must respond to recent federal legislation that significantly reduces funding for social services. Over the next decade, MassHealth is projected to lose an estimated $13 to $15 billion in federal Medicaid revenue.
Tara Gregorio, President of Mass Senior Care, thanked Secretary Walsh for her commitment and leadership, and congratulated Dr. Mahaniah on his appointment. Gregorio stated, “We continue our commitment to work with the Healey Administration to ensure the health and safety of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable residents.”