Gov. Baker Announces New Department Heads

Dr. Monica Bharel, the chief medical officer for the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, will take over for Cheryl Bartlett as commissioner of the Department of Public Health, overseeing a broad array of programs, including the implementation of medical marijuana. Bharel earned her medical degree from Boston University and a graduate degree in public health from Harvard University. “Doctor Bharel has an impressive background as a physician serving the homeless, some of the most vulnerable citizens of the commonwealth,” said Marylou Sudders, the incoming health and human services secretary.