Governor Jim Justice has appointed Dr. Stephen Loyd as the new Director of the Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP).

“Dr. Loyd is going to be an incredible asset in fighting the opioid crisis and drug abuse in West Virginia,” Justice said. “His genuine compassion for people struggling with addiction and his drive to improve public health are exactly what we need. West Virginia has a long way to go with our drug challenges, and we are going to continue pulling the rope together to achieve real progress.”

Dr. Loyd, who specializes in Internal Medicine and Addiction Medicine, earned his medical degree from East Tennessee State University. He most recently served as the Chief Medical Officer at Cedar Recovery in Mount Juliet, Tennessee. Prior to this role, Dr. Loyd was the Assistant Commissioner for Substance Abuse Services, often referred to as the “Opioid Czar,” at the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Use in Nashville.

“I am deeply honored to join the Office of Drug Control Policy,” Dr. Loyd said. “Together, we will continue to advance data-driven, comprehensive strategies to combat substance abuse and improve the lives of West Virginians. I want to thank Governor Justice for his trust in appointing me to this role, and I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated team under the leadership of Secretary Persily and continue to make a meaningful impact in West Virginia communities.”

With extensive expertise in addiction medicine in both inpatient and outpatient settings, Dr. Loyd has focused on treating opioid-dependent pregnant women. He has also been recognized as the inspiration for Michael Keaton’s character in the EMMY-award-winning series “Dopesick” on Hulu, further underscoring his influence in the field of addiction.

The ODCP operates under the West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS). Dr. Loyd succeeds Dr. Matthew Christiansen, who was promoted to State Health Officer within the West Virginia Department of Health in January 2023. In the interim period, Rachel Thaxton, the ODCP Assistant Director, and Christina Mullins, the DoHS Deputy Secretary of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders, managed the office while the search for a permanent director was conducted.

Dr. Loyd’s appointment as the Director of ODCP became effective on August 12, 2024.