Dr. David L. Lakey, former chief of infectious disease and medical director of the Center for Pulmonary and Infectious Disease Control at the University of Texas Health Center in Tyler, is the new Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services effective Jan. 2. (View news release and biography.)

Legislative Appropriations Request

The DSHS Legislative Appropriations Request (LAR) for the biennium beginning September 1, 2007, is now available. Submission of the LAR is the first step in the budget process that the agency will go through during the legislative session starting in January 2007.

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Protect Yourself From Flu

The holidays may be over, but flu season in Texas is peaking. DSHS continues to encourage people to get their flu shots and take steps to protect themselves. Flu season typically runs October through March, and vaccinations can be given at any time during this period or later. More information is available at www.texasflu.org.

Pandemic Flu Guidebook Available

New information on how you can plan for and stay safe in a pandemic flu emergency is now available online in a guidebook called "Pandemic Flu: The Public's Guide to Planning and Preparation".

Negotiated Rulemaking for Provider of Last Resort

DSHS will engage in negotiated rulemaking to develop an implementation plan for the provider of last resort provisions contained in House Bill 2292 (78th Legislature). This three-phase process will involve an implementation plan that will put into operation the provisions of the law and the requirements of the Governor's Executive Order RP 45.

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Newborn Screening Expansion

The Texas Department of State Health Services is now testing “heel stick” blood samples from newborns for 26 disorders. A 27th disorder will be added early in 2007. Previously, newborns were screened for seven conditions. House Bill 790, passed by the 79th Texas Legislature in 2005, mandated that DSHS screen for additional disorders recommended by the American College of Medical Genetics as funding allows.

News Release

Last Updated February 1, 2007