City of Long Beach Appoints Dr. Cliff Okada City of Long Beach Appoints Dr. Cliff Okada as City Health Officeras City Health Officer
The Californer/10361664

Long Beach, CA ~ The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services has appointed Dr. Cliff Okada as the city's health officer, giving him medical and public health leadership over city programs and services.

Okada is a board-certified family medicine physician and an HIV specialist certified by the American Academy of HIV Medicine. The city said the health officer role is legally required for local health jurisdictions and includes responsibilities for communicable disease prevention and control, disease reporting and investigation, and public health emergency response.

Before his appointment, Okada served as medical director of the city's HIV Care and Coordination Clinic and interim medical director of its Occupational Health Clinic. He also supported the department's sexual health, family planning, tuberculosis and immunization clinics, and provided clinical oversight during tuberculosis investigations and the city's COVID-19 response.

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"Dr. Okada is a valued member of our Health Department as he helps guide our response to public health challenges and provides essential care to our communities," City Manager Tom Modica said. He added that Okada's experience, leadership and commitment would serve Long Beach residents well.

Okada previously worked for AIDS Healthcare Foundation, providing primary care as an HIV specialist before becoming medical director of its Wellness Center. The city said he oversaw health care providers and helped develop and implement sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment protocols at three Wellness Centers in the greater Los Angeles region.

"It is an honor to serve as City Health Officer and to continue working with the dedicated team at the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services," Okada said. He said he looked forward to addressing emerging public health needs and helping residents access information and services to support their health.

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