Dr. Jose Serpa, a professor of medicine at UT Tyler, was named to the role by the Smith County Commissioners Court, Tyler City Council, and by NET Health. “Health authorities are medical physicians who are appointed to administer state and local laws relating to public health within the appointing body’s jurisdiction,” NET Health CEO George Roberts said. In his new role, Serpa will investigate and report diseases and focus on prevention and suppression efforts. Serpa will also help NET Health enforce proper health rules and requirements, sanitation laws, and vital statistics collection. In addition to his teaching role at UT Tyler, Serpa also serves as the university’s vice chair for education and facultydevelopment.