The Vermont Department of Health is getting a new commissioner.

State officials announced yesterday that pediatrician Dr. Wendy Davis will serve as interim commissioner of the Vermont Department of Health until a permanent commissioner can be found.

Davis is director of the Health Department's maternal and child health division. She will replace acting commissioner Sharon Moffatt, a registered nurse, who recently resigned.

Agency of Human Services Secretary Cynthia LaWare says Davis is committed to excellence in public health.

LaWare says once a permanent commissioner is found, Davis plans to return to her role as head of the maternal and child health division.