Katie Hobbs Appoints New Health Services Director

Governor Katie Hobbs (D-AZ) announced the appointment of Debbie Johnston (D-AZ) as director of the Arizona Department of Health Services (HHS) on November 24.

Johnston has spent the past 21 years with the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association, where she worked on policy development and regulatory affairs. 

She retired from the organization earlier this year as Executive Vice President. During her time there, she served on several state health boards and committees, including the State Trauma Advisory Board and the Arizona Health Improvement Plan Steering Committee.

"I am proud to appoint Debbie to this important position, and have full confidence in her ability to oversee this critical agency," said Governor Hobbs. 

"Debbie’s longstanding relationships, strong leadership, and extensive experience with Arizona health care providers, especially our rural hospitals, will be assets to Arizonans and to the hundreds of thousands of health care providers that ADHS licenses," Hobbs continued.

HHS

The Department of Health Services licenses healthcare providers throughout Arizona and runs public health programs across the State. The agency works to protect public health while helping medical professionals do their jobs.

Additionally, Johnston began her career in the Arizona State Senate as a Research Analyst for the Appropriations, Commerce, and Economic Development Committees, later becoming Research Staff Director. 

Her background includes experience in budget analysis and economic development policy.

"I am honored to be nominated by Governor Hobbs to serve as Director of the Arizona Department of Health Services," Johnston said. "An accessible and efficient public healthcare system is vital to the prosperity of our State. I take seriously the State's obligations to protect the public while supporting the work of our providers."

The appointment requires confirmation by the Arizona State Senate before Johnston can officially begin her new role. 

She will replace Sheila Sjolander, who has served as interim director since April 2025 and will return to her previous role at the agency.

Hobbs concluded that she looks forward to Johnston's confirmation by the State Senate.