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Chuck Matthews
Director, North County Regions at Health and Human Services, County of San Diego
Professional Background
Chuck Matthews is a seasoned expert in the realms of public health, healthcare administration, and mental health advocacy. With a formidable career spanning over two decades, he has played significant roles in various capacities, contributing immensely to the welfare of communities in and around San Diego. He currently serves as the Director for North County Regions at the County of San Diego's Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA), where he leads initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes and enhancing service delivery across multiple sectors including behavioral health, child welfare, and aging services.
His career trajectory exhibits a compelling combination of operational leadership, teaching, and hands-on social work experience. Prior to his current role, Chuck held the position of Chief of Operations Public Health for the County of San Diego, which allowed him to influence county-wide health policy and public health initiatives. Chuck’s foundational experience in the field of social services began as a Social Worker and Discharge Planner at Sharp Healthcare, where he honed his skills in patient advocacy and inter-disciplinary collaboration.
Apart from his extensive experience in public health, Chuck's role as the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for the County of San Diego further emphasizes his commitment to serving vulnerable populations. He was responsible for representing individuals who were unable to care for themselves, ensuring that their rights and well-being were safeguarded. His passion for public service and community health led him to serve as Deputy Director of Aging and Independence Services within San Diego County, where he developed programs to effectively cater to older adults and individuals with disabilities.
Education and Achievements
Chuck Matthews holds an impressive array of educational qualifications that empower his professional practice. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Northern Illinois University, followed by dual Master’s degrees in Business Administration with an emphasis on Health Care Administration and a Master of Science in Counseling, both from San Diego State University. These academic credentials have fortified his analytical, managerial, and interpersonal skills, making him a well-rounded leader in the public health sector.
In pursuit of deeper knowledge and expertise, Chuck studied for his Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health with a focus on Global Health at UC San Diego, adding a rigorous academic layer to his understanding of complex health systems and global health dynamics. He has also pursued a Doctor of Philosophy in Global Health through independent study, demonstrating his commitment to advancing his knowledge and staying at the forefront of public health research.
Leadership and Community Involvement
Not only has Chuck held significant administrative roles, but he has also imparted his knowledge and experience as an Adjunct Professor at San Diego State University, shaping the next generation of healthcare leaders. His teaching focused on public health principles, discussing themes of health equity, policy-making, and global health issues. This sharing of knowledge underscores Chuck's commitment to mentoring and fostering new talent in the public health arena.
Conclusion
Through a blend of practical experience and academic rigor, Chuck Matthews exemplifies a dynamic leader in public health. His dedication to improving community health outcomes, mentorship of aspiring healthcare professionals, and operational excellence continues to influence public health policy and practice in significant ways.