Framingham's Health Director Officially Resigns

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Dr. Sam Wong has officially resigned as Framingham's health director one month after city officials said he was taking an extended medical leave.

City officials announced Dec. 29 that Wong — who has been hailed as one of the best health agents in the state — would take an indefinite medical leave, but sidestepped questions about whether it would be permanent. Wong has said he became exhausted during the coronavirus pandemic.

"When I joined Framingham in August 2017, I came in at a time when the department needed a complete overhaul," Wong said in a press release. "I’m proud of the team and Department that I have built and believe I’m leaving the city in capable hands."

Mayor Yvonne Spicer credited Wong with leading key initiatives during the pandemic, including publishing data on infections and bringing free coronavirus testing to the city. Spicer said she accepted his resignation on Wednesday.

Alexandra DePalo, who Wong brought with him in 2017 when he left Hudson, will remain as acting health director while the city searches for a permanent replacement.

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