~ New Commissioner has M.D. and Ph.D. from University of Minnesota ~

St. Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty today appointed Dr. Sanne Magnan as Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).

Dr. Magnan is currently the President of the Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement (ICSI) of Bloomington, Minnesota. An independent, non-profit organization, ICSI facilitates collaboration on health care quality improvement by medical groups, hospitals and health plans that provide health care services to people who live and work in Minnesota and adjacent states.

“Dr. Magnan’s impressive credentials and hands-on health experience make her the right person to lead the Department of Health,” Governor Pawlenty said. “Minnesota is ranked the healthiest state in the nation and I believe Dr. Magnan will build on that tradition as we continue to work on improving and reforming health care in our state and protecting and promoting the public’s health.”

A board certified internist, Magnan has also served as a staff physician at the Tuberculosis Clinic of the St. Paul-Ramsey County Department of Public Health and clinical assistant professor of medicine in the Department of Medicine at the University of Minnesota. She was also Vice President and Medical Director for Consumer Health at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota where she was responsible for case management, disease management, and consumer engagement.

Dr. Magnan holds a medical degree and a Ph.D. in medicinal chemistry from the University of Minnesota. She earned her bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from the University of North Carolina.

In 2004, Dr. Magnan was named one of the 100 Influential Health Care Leaders by Minnesota Physician. She has also served on several boards, including Minnesota Community Measurement.

The Minnesota Department of Health is the state’s lead public health agency, responsible for operating programs that prevent infectious and chronic diseases, promote clean water, safe food, quality health care, and healthy living. The department also plays a significant role in making sure that Minnesota is ready to effectively respond to serious emergencies, such as natural disasters and emerging disease threats. MDH has a staff of approximately 1,300 in the Twin Cities and in seven offices in Greater Minnesota.