(The Center Square) – Dr. Debra Bogen officially became Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Health following final Senate confirmation on Monday.

Gov. Josh Shapiro first nominated Bogen in January 2023, but withdrew her nomination six months later due to a lack of support in the upper chamber. At the time, Senate Republicans raised concerns about decisions she made while leading the Allegheny County Health Department during COVID-19.

On Monday, the opposition shrank to just eight of the 50 senators, reaching the necessary two-thirds majority to confirm Bogen's appointment.

During a meeting of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on Thursday, Democratic lawmakers reiterated their support and praised Bogen's 18-month tenure as “acting” secretary.

“Dr. Bogen is a great person, a wonderful human being, a great professional, an exceptional physician who I know will represent our community with great integrity,” said Senator Jay Costa, Democrat of Pittsburgh. “I don't think we could find anyone better qualified and who has been committed to improving the Department of Health for the last 18 months.”

The acting minister said her greatest achievements so far have been improving “strained relations” with the state’s emergency services (which have been struggling with “confrontational” state office). She also pointed to the department's work in rural health, which involves “collaborating across agencies” and implementing regulations for the state's long-term care facilities.

“I think you have demonstrated your ability to lead the Department of Health,” said Senator Judy Schwank (D-Reading).

Anthony Hennen contributed to this report.