San Francisco Sun

Public Health Director Dr. Grant Colfax has announced his resignation from the San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) after nearly six years in the role. Dr. Colfax expressed gratitude for his tenure, stating, "I have had the privilege to serve the people of San Francisco, working to protect and promote the health of all San Franciscans."

Dr. Colfax began his career at SFDPH as a medical intern in 1993 and later worked with the SFDPH AIDS Office in 1998. He served as National HIV/AIDS advisor for President Barack Obama before returning to SFDPH as Director of Health just before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayor Daniel Lurie praised Dr. Colfax's leadership during challenging times, saying, "His dedication and work to the health and wellbeing of our city’s communities is remarkable." Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi also commended him: "Dr. Colfax has led with a data-driven, community-centered focus that benefits all San Franciscans."

Under Dr. Colfax's leadership, significant strides were made in mental health and substance use services in San Francisco. His initiatives included adding treatment beds, launching telehealth services for medication-assisted treatment, and advocating for methadone accessibility reforms.

The department saw increased admissions for substance use residential treatment by 35% over the past year and reduced median wait times by 50%. Additionally, overdose deaths decreased by more than 20% compared to previous years.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Colfax led one of the most comprehensive responses in the country. This included establishing testing sites for essential workers and achieving a high vaccination rate among residents.

UCSF Chancellor Sam Hawgood acknowledged Dr. Colfax's efforts: "He has fostered tighter partnerships between SFDPH and UCSF, resulting in better health for the city's most vulnerable residents."

Dr. Laurie Green from the San Francisco Health Commission highlighted his impact: "Dr. Colfax has provided exceptional leadership... enhancing DPH’s ability to provide quality care across San Francisco."

Dr. Naveena Bobba will serve as Acting Director following Dr. Colfax's departure on February 7, 2025.