The Arizona Department of Health Services has named Dr. Eugene Livar as the nation’s first-ever statewide Chief Heat Officer.

The position was created as part of Arizona's Extreme Heat Preparedness Plan. 

“ADHS is proud to play a role in meeting this moment and working to fix a complex problem facing Arizonans, and we will handle this responsibility with the care it deserves and in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Resiliency Director Maren Mahoney,” ADHS Cabinet Executive Officer Jennie Cunico said.

 Livar will oversee implementing the plan and work to coordinate partnerships between the state, county health departments, local municipalities, communities, the private sector and community-based organizations according to a release.

ADHS has also hired a heat relief coordinator who will serve as the statewide point-of-contact for county coordinators and will develop training for 'community navigators focused on improving access to human service providers,' the release stated.

“I’m excited to take on this role and this important work to make sure Arizona is prepared as possible for this upcoming heat season and beyond,” said Livar, who has been part of ADHS since 2012.