Appointed by Governor Charlie Baker in 2015, Commissioner Monica Bharel serves as the Commonwealth’s chief physician. She is dedicated to reducing health disparities and developing data-driven, evidence-based solutions for keeping people healthy and is helping lead the state’s aggressive response to the opioid crisis. In 2017, Massachusetts was among few states to see a reduction in opioid overdose deaths, thanks to a variety of new programs and initiatives.
As Commissioner, Dr. Bharel oversees a public health workforce of nearly 3000 and an expansive department addressing issues, from environmental health to injury prevention to infectious diseases. In 2017, Massachusetts was named the healthiest state in the nation by America’s Health Rankings Report.
Dr. Bharel is a board certified internist who has practiced general internal medicine for more than 20 years, and has been recognized for her dedication to underserved and vulnerable populations. Prior to becoming Commissioner, she was Chief Medical Officer of Boston Health Care for the Homeless.
She holds a Master of Public Health degree through the Commonwealth Fund/Harvard University Fellowship and a medical degree from Boston University School of Medicine.