San Bernardino County board appoints new health officer

The Board of Supervisors last week appointed Dr. Sharon Wang as San Bernardino County’s new health officer.

Wang is the first woman to serve as the county’s health officer and will oversee public health initiatives and lead the county’s efforts in promoting health and wellness for residents.

“Public health is a collaborative effort, and I look forward to working with our dedicated team and community partners to address the challenges we face and implement innovative solutions that enhance the well-being of our population,” Wang said in a statement.

Wang is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, and completed her training in dietetics at Yale New Haven Hospital, according to the county. She earned a doctor of osteopathy degree from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, where she graduated fifth in her class, while simultaneously completing a master’s degree in health education. Following her medical training, Wang did an internal medicine residency and an infectious diseases fellowship at UC Davis. She has state board certifications in internal medicine and infectious diseases.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Wang join our team as health officer,” Board of Supervisors Chair Dawn Rowe said in a statement. “Her extensive background in public health and infectious diseases will be invaluable as we continue to address the health needs of our community.”

Prior to her appointment as health officer, Wang was the deputy county health officer. Officials said she played a key role in guiding public health strategies and initiatives.

Wang also worked at the Arrowhead Regional Medical Center where she was a specialist in infectious diseases and helped establish and maintain an antibiotic registry. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Wang was an infectious diseases consultant for ARMC’s response and treatment program. County officials said she has a “passion for teaching, leadership, teamwork and warm personality.” She was recognized as the 2020 Physician of the Year at the medical center.

Wang succeeds former County Health Officer Michael Sequeira, who was appointed in November 2020.

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