The Platte County Commission appointed Dr. Jeffrey Kingsley to fill a vacancy on the Platte County Health Department’s Board of Trustees at its Monday, Jan. 4 meeting held at the Platte County Resource Center.
In the first commission administrative session for new second district commissioner Joe Vanover, the commissioners unanimously appointed Kingsley to fill the position vacated by the resignation of Dr. Teresa Hills.
According to a press release issued by the commission after the appointment was approved, Kingsley’s medical expertise is in pediatrics and pediatric infectious diseases. He currently serves as a pediatric/neonatal hospitalist and his research includes HIV treatment. His work has been published in many scientific and medical journals, including articles on HIV treatment as well as immunization recommendations. He is board certified in pediatrics.
Jeff Kingsley
“In these uncertain times Platte County is fortunate to have a physician with these qualifications willing to serve the people of Platte County,” said presiding commissioner Ron Schieber in the release.
Commissioners noted Kingsley will be the only physician on the board. Board president Dr. Kent Jackson is a well known veterinarian, treasurer Kathy Wright is a registered nurse, while secretary Cathy Hill and member Paula Willmarth have extensive experience in healthcare administration, public health and social services.
“Following sound medical advice and science is very important in these uncertain times,” Kingsley said in the release. “I’m eager to serve the citizens of Platte County.”
Kingsley is married and has three children who have attended public schools in Platte County.
Due to Hills’ resignation, commissioners were able to appoint a trustee to her unexpired term. Kingsley has filed to run for election to her unexpired term – which runs until 2024 – in the April election.
The Platte County Health Department operates independently from county government and is funded through its own dedicated property tax and user fees.