K. Mills McNeill, MD, PhDDalton, GA - The North Georgia Health District is pleased to announce the appointment of K. Mills McNeill, MD, PhD, as the district’s new Health Director. Dr. McNeill brings a wealth of experience and expertise in preventive medicine and public health to the six-county health district based in Dalton, Georgia, comprised of Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens, and Whitfield counties.
Dr. McNeill received his medical doctorate from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in 1975, preceded by a PhD in medical parasitology from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 1971. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Mississippi State University, which he earned in 1968.
With 22 years of active duty in the U.S. Army as a Preventive Medicine Physician, Dr. McNeill retired as a Colonel. His career includes various leadership roles in both the military and public health sectors, such as Senior Medical Officer at the U.S. Army Physical Disability Agency, Director of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-Uganda, Chief of Preventive Medicine Service at various military medical centers, Senior Public Health Physician of the Mississippi State Department of Public Health, and Medical Epidemiologist of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Throughout his career, Dr. McNeill has contributed to numerous publications and served on federal advisory committees, demonstrating his commitment to advancing public health initiatives and improving healthcare systems.
In his new role as Health Director of the North Georgia Health District, Dr. McNeill will lead efforts to promote community health and wellness, implement preventive health programs, and address public health challenges in the region. His extensive experience and dedication to public service make him a valuable spearhead of the district's leadership team.
"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Mills McNeill as our new Health Director," said Louise Hamrick, Deputy Director, North Georgia Health District. "His outstanding qualifications and proven track record in the military and public health make him the ideal candidate to lead our district and support our mission of improving the health and well-being of our community."
Dr. McNeill’s appointment is effective immediately, and he is eager to collaborate with local stakeholders, healthcare providers, and community members to enhance health outcomes and promote a culture of wellness in the North Georgia Health District.
For more information about the North Georgia Health District and its wide range of public health services at the district and county levels, please visit www.nghd.org.