Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Executive Commissioner Thomas Suehs announced that Chris Traylor, who has led the state’s Medicaid program for the past three years, will be the next commissioner of the Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS).

 

“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.

 

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.