McKee nominates Richard Charest for Health and Human Services secretary

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Governor Dan McKee announced his appointment of current Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals Director Richard Charest to serve as the next secretary of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services.

“Since his arrival at BHDDH, Richard Charest has made significant strides and improvements, including the opening of a new state psychiatric hospital and ensuring that Eleanor Slater Hospital is on a positive and stable path,” McKee said.

McKee cited Charest’s leadership and decades of experience as reasons for the appointment.

Charest has more than 30 years of experience in the health care sector, having previously served as president and CEO of both Landmark Medical Center and the Rehabilitation Hospital of Rhode Island.

“The work of our employees, legislators, and caregivers is significant, and immeasurably important to the success of Rhode Island,” Charest said. “I look forward to expanding my collaboration with stakeholders and building relationships that promote innovation to strengthen the continuum of care.”

The appointment has been sent to the state senate for advice and consent, the governor added.