FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wednesday, July 13, 2026
Media Contact: Jonah Anderson
jonah.anderson@delaware.gov
WILMINGTON, Del. — Governor Matt Meyer today signed Executive Order 25 establishing the Office of the Surgeon General within the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) and announced the appointment of Dr. Neil Hockstein as Delaware’s first Surgeon General.
With the creation of the office, Delaware becomes just the seventh state in the nation to establish a state-level surgeon general, creating a physician-led office dedicated to providing clear, evidence-based public health guidance while coordinating health priorities across state government.
“Every Delawarean deserves access to trusted, evidence-based medical guidance and a health care system that works for them,” said Gov. Matt Meyer. “The Surgeon General will strengthen public health, improve access to affordable, high-quality care, and ensure Delaware is focused on the health and well-being of our communities. Dr. Hockstein will enable Delaware families to prepare for tomorrow’s health challenges while improving the health of Delawareans today.”
“It is an extraordinary honor to serve as Delaware’s First Surgeon General,” said Dr. Neil Hockstein. “Throughout my career—as a physician, health system leader, and Chair of the Delaware Health Care Commission—I have been driven by one simple goal: improving the health and well-being of every Delawarean. As Surgeon General, I look forward to building on that work by strengthening access to care, advancing prevention and public health, supporting our healthcare workforce, and serving as a trusted voice on the issues that shape the health of our communities. Working alongside Governor Meyer, Secretary Linke Young, healthcare providers, community organizations, and Delawareans across our state, we have an incredible opportunity to build a healthier future for every person who calls Delaware home.”
“I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Hockstein to DHSS and look forward to working together to deliver for Delawareans,” said DHSS Secretary Christen Linke Young. “This is a critical moment for Delaware, and Dr. Hockstein’s creativity, passion, and long record of thought leadership will help us improve health and wellness for every person in this state.”
Dr. Hockstein will serve as the Governor’s chief physician advisor, the state’s principal public health communicator, and the state’s chief advocate for the health and well-being of Delawareans. He will advise the Governor and executive branch agencies on emerging public health issues, convene health care and community stakeholders, and promote evidence-based policies to improve health outcomes across the state.
The office arrives as federal public health agencies face growing political interference and eroding public trust, underscoring the need for a trusted, local physician leader who can provide Delawareans with timely, accurate and evidence-based information.
The executive order outlines a modern framework for public health centered on protecting the foundations of public health, expanding access to timely and affordable health care, strengthening Delaware’s health care workforce and building healthier, more resilient communities. The office will also address emerging public health challenges, including youth mental health, loneliness, healthy childhood development and the impacts of technology and social media on health and well-being.
Under the executive order, the Surgeon General will serve as a Deputy Cabinet Secretary within DHSS, and the Director of the Division of Public Health will report to the Surgeon General. Within 12 months, the Surgeon General will submit a strategic report to the Governor identifying opportunities to improve health outcomes, strengthen Delaware’s public health infrastructure, improve access to health care and prepare the state for future public health challenges.
Dr. Hockstein will officially begin his duties as Surgeon General on August 3rd.
ABOUT DR. NEIL HOCKSTEIN
Neil Hockstein, M.D. is an otolaryngologist specializing in head and neck surgery and currently serves as Chair of the Delaware Health Care Commission. An active head and neck surgeon, Hockstein founded and expanded a multi-state ENT practice, growing it into one of the nation’s largest independent otolaryngology groups. He played a pioneering role in the development of transoral robotic surgery and has published and presented widely on surgical innovation and cancer treatment. His clinical and research interests include minimally invasive surgery for head and neck cancer, improving care delivery through independent practice models, and advancing physician workforce policy.
Hockstein is a nationally recognized leader in otolaryngology, frequently presenting at national conferences on practice management, physician workforce, and health policy. He has also served as a mentor to medical students, residents, and fellows, many of whom have gone on to leadership positions in academic medicine and private practice.
In addition to his clinical and academic contributions, Hockstein has been deeply engaged in public service and policy development in Delaware. As Chair of the Delaware Health Care Commission and leader of the Delaware Primary Care Reform Collaborative, he has worked to expand access to care, reduce costs, and improve quality, as well as establish Delaware’s first medical school.
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