Mario Garcia, MPH
Originally trained as physician, Dr. Mario Garcia chose to become a public health practitioner early in his career prompted by his experience as rural doctor. Dr. Garcia has worked in the field of international public health for almost 20 years and worked for extensive periods in at least seven different countries. His experience ranges from directing primary health care projects to consulting for health policy and health systems reform projects. Dr. Garcia worked six years as a country manager for Doctors Without Borders, the Nobel Peace Prize-winning agency and one of the largest medical humanitarian organizations in the world. Dr. Garcia joined the CT Department of Public Health in March 2003 as the director of the office of public health preparedness. Prompted by a general reorganization of the agency, he has moved on to become a program manager in the Public Health Initiatives Branch, where he leads the CT Tobacco Control Program and the State Loan Repayment Program in addition to providing overall managerial support for programs in the Health Education, Management and Surveillance Section. Throughout his career, Dr. Garcia has developed a solid record bridging theory and public health practice. As an advocate, he has promoted the participation and inclusion of the most vulnerable groups in the decisions that most directly impact their lives. In addition to his medical degree, Dr. Garcia holds a masters degree in Community Health from the University of London and an MPH with a concentration in Health Policy and Administration from Yale University.
