Governor Hobbs Appoints Debbie Johnston as Arizona Department of Health Services Director

December 4, 2025

Governor Katie Hobbs recently appointed Debbie Johnston to lead the Arizona Department of Health Services. Debbie previously worked for the Arizona Hospital & Healthcare Association and will bring more than two decades of healthcare and legislative expertise to the agency.


Extensive Public Health Background


Johnston spent over 20 years serving hospitals across the state at AzHHA, where she concentrated on policy development and regulatory affairs. She retired earlier this year after serving as executive vice president.


Throughout her tenure at AzHHA, Johnston participated on multiple ADHS public health boards and committees, including the State Trauma Advisory Board and the Arizona Health Improvement Plan Steering Committee.


Focus on Rural Healthcare and Provider Relations


In her press release, Governor Hobbs emphasized Johnston's established relationships with the Arizona healthcare community, particularly rural hospitals, as key assets for the position. The department licenses hundreds of thousands of healthcare providers across the state.


Johnston said she will focus on fostering an accessible and efficient public healthcare system to support Arizonans' prosperity and well-being. She also expressed her commitment to protecting the public while supporting clinicians, indicating plans to collaborate with community partners, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to advance health outcomes.


Background and Transition


A third-generation Arizonan, Johnston began her career in the Arizona State Senate, where she worked as a research analyst for the Appropriations, Commerce and Economic Development Committees before being promoted to research staff director.

She will succeed Sheila Sjolander, who has served as interim Director since April 2025. Sjolander will return to her previous position within the agency. Johnston's appointment requires confirmation by the State Senate.

Source: Governor's Office

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