SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Senate unanimously confirmed Dr. Joseph Miner as the new executive director of the state Health Department on Wednesday.
Miner headed the Utah County Health Department for 32 years before Gov. Gary Herbert chose him to replace David Patton, who resigned after four years on the job to pursue private sector opportunities.
Miner earned a bachelor's degree from BYU in 1971, a medical degree from the University of Utah School of Medicine in 1974, and a master's in public health from the U. in 1983.
Sen. Allen Christensen, R-North Ogden, said he can't fathom why Miner would take the job, but he's glad that he did. Miner assumes the post as state lawmakers debate controversial plans to expand Medicaid coverage.
— Dennis Romboy