1-8-15 Feature Story:
Health center physician Dr. Monica Bharel, who has served as chief medical officer at Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP) since 2008, will lead Massachusetts' Department of Public Health as its new Commissioner under the Baker Administration.
"We are thrilled with this appointment," said James W. Hunt, Jr., president and CEO of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers. "Dr. Bharel brings a wealth of experience in community and public health, as well as a passion for serving vulnerable populations. We applaud her service at Boston Health Care for the Homeless, and look forward to working with her in this new role."
Bharel earned her medical degree from Boston University in 1994 and completed her internal medicine residency and chief residency at Boston City Hospital/Boston Medical Center. She joined BHCHP in 2003 as medical director of the Barbara McInnis House, a medical respite care center providing short-term and recuperative medical services for homeless individuals.
"Doctor Bharel has an impressive background as a physician serving the homeless, some of the most vulnerable citizens of the commonwealth," said incoming Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders.
