W. S. Riggins, Jr., M.D., M.P.H.

Dr. "Chip" Riggins is regional director for the Texas Department of Health, Public Health Region 8 headquartered in San Antonio.  Dr. Riggins received his training in family practice and preventive medicine in Texas and has 20 years of state service.  From 1990 to 1995, he was an assistant professor in the Department of Family Practice at The University of Texas Medical Branch and served as medical director for the Galveston County Health District.  He is also a colonel and senior flight surgeon in the Texas Air National Guard, currently serving as State Air Surgeon/Joint State Surgeon at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. 

As regional director for the Texas Department of Health since 1995, his responsibilities include coordinating the delivery of more than 35 public health programs across 28 south/central Texas counties.  Dr. Riggins represents the Commissioner of Health to the governmental bodies, healthcare agencies and citizens in this region.  A fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Preventive Medicine and associate fellow of the Aerospace Medical Association, he holds several teaching appointments. Since 1997 he has served as the residency director of the TDH Public Health and General Preventive Medicine Residency Training Program.