The Charles County Commissioners and the Charles County Department of Health yesterday announced that Dianna E. Abney, M.D. will return to serve as the County’s Health Officer. Dr. Abney previously served at the Department of Health as the Health Officer from April 2013 until September 2018.
“It is an honor and privilege to return as health officer for Charles County. Protecting the health of our residents is my top priority,” said Dr. Abney. “I am pleased to step into this position and I look forward to working again with local colleagues, state leaders, and the health department staff to provide our residents with the most up-to-date information, especially during the current pandemic.”
“We are thankful to Dr. Lowry for her service to the residents of Charles County,” said Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins, II, Esq. “It is a pleasure to welcome back Dr. Abney as the Health Officer for Charles County, especially during the uncertainty with the COVID-19 pandemic. We are looking forward to a smooth transition with Dr. Abney’s return to this role.”
According to a County press release:
Abney has previously served as acting health officer and as medical director of the Child Abuse and Neglect Program for Charles County. Dr. Howard Haft will serve as acting health officer for Charles County following the resignation of Suzán C. Lowry, M.D., FAAP.
Dr. Abney is a physician specializing in pediatrics who has been in practice for more than 25 years in Waldorf with the Cambridge Pediatrics. She received her undergraduate degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1983 and her medical degree from Tulane University in 1989. She completed her residency at Howard University and DC General Hospitals. She is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the National Medical Association, and the Maryland State Medical Society.
She is well known in the community and possesses an in-depth understanding of the health issues specific to the county. During her previous service as the Charles County health officer, Dr. Abney focused on improving the health outcomes for all residents throughout the county through enhanced services and outreach, particularly in underserved areas. She also developed and implemented strategies to address the growing opioid addiction through prevention, diversion, and treatment programs.
Dr. Abney’s appointment is effective on September 1, 2020.
