Dr. Johansson appointed to presidential advisory group

President Barack Obama has appointed Patrik Johansson, M.D., director of the Rural Health Education Network (RHEN) in the UNMC College of Public Health, to the Advisory Group on Prevention, Health Promotion, and Integrative and Public Health.

Patrik Johannson, M.D.

The advisory group is part of the National Prevention Council, which was created through the Affordable Care Act. The council aims to develop a national prevention strategy that identifies key priorities and actions needed to prevent and reduce our nation’s leading causes of death and disability.

“Our nation will be greatly served by the talent and expertise these individuals bring to their new roles,” Obama said. “I am grateful they have agreed to serve in this administration, and I look forward to working with them in the months and years ahead.”

Dr. Johansson’s term begins immediately. As part of the advisory council, Dr. Johansson will help provide policy and program recommendations. The council also advises the National Prevention Council on:

• Effective, science-based chronic disease prevention and management; and
  
• Integrative health care practices and health promotion.

“Dr. Johansson’s appointment to this advisory group is indicative of his leadership and experience in public health policy and research,” said UNMC Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D. “We are sure he will play a vital role and provide valuable insight.”