Recognizing Dr. Jeffrey Duchin's Contributions to Public Health

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Ms. JAYAPAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Jeffrey Duchin who is retiring after a thirty-year career in public health, most recently as the Health Officer for Public Health--Seattle & King County.

Dr. Duchin began working at Public Health--Seattle & King County in 1994 on assignment from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to handle the Tuberculosis and HIV programs. Four years later, Dr. Duchin served as the Public Health--Seattle & King County Chief of Vaccination and Communicable Disease Epidemiology, a position he held until he was named Health Officer in 2015. He has lent his expertise to numerous national policy and advisory bodies where he helped shape approaches to immunizations and infectious diseases. Dr. Duchin is also a longtime Professor at the University of Washington's Schools of Medicine and Public Health. In this capacity, he provides mentorship to students and publishes research on communicable disease. His contributions to infectious disease research will undoubtedly leave a mark on the field for years to come.

Dr. Duchin's outstanding work helped King County and Washington State navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and better prepare for public health emergencies. In 2020, King County experienced America's first known COVID-19 case and the first large outbreak. Dr. Duchin immediately stepped into action and his leadership was nationally recognized. During this time, Dr. Duchin prioritized community engagement and solutions that centered equity. My staff and I partnered closely with Public Health--Seattle & King County during the pandemic. Dr. Duchin's invaluable expertise, frequent updates and excellent communication were essential for the intergovernmental partnerships that supported our communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Duchin's prioritization of science and deep understanding of the intersectionality of health saved countless lives.

Dr. Duchin's tireless commitment to public health has benefitted the lives of so many in King County and beyond. His leadership will serve as a model for Washington State's leaders for years to come. I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating his many accomplishments and contributions to public health. On behalf of Washington's 7th Congressional District, I thank Dr. Jeffrey Duchin for his service to the people of the Pacific Northwest.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source