Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner Thomas Suehs today announced that Chris Traylor, who has led the state’s Medicaid program for the past three years, will be the next DADS commissioner.
“Chris is a leader, and that’s just what we need to help improve the services we provide to some of our most vulnerable Texans,” Suehs said. “He knows how to run large programs effectively and still remain focused on handling even the smallest details with care and compassion. I’ve asked him to focus on meeting the expectations of the Legislature as we implement Senate Bill 643 and the important reforms it outlines.”
Traylor’s appointment was made with the approval of Gov. Rick Perry and is effective Jan. 1.
“I am honored by the appointment and humbled by the responsibility,” Traylor said. “I have great respect for the thousands of DADS employees who work to provide safe and effective services for Texans and for the many advocates who understand exactly the importance of the agency’s mission. I look forward to working with them both as we try to make Texas a model for the nation in caring for our older citizens and those with disabilities.”
Traylor has served as associate commissioner for Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) since 2006. The programs provide health coverage for one out of every three Texas children and account for a quarter of the state budget.
Traylor also has served as chief of staff at HHSC and as the director of HHSC’s Transformation Program Management Office, where he managed the day-to-day operations of the consolidation of Texas health and human services agencies in 2004. He previously served as deputy commissioner for government relations at the Texas Department of Human Services and is a graduate of Texas Tech University.
