Permanent DHEC director voted in after eight months The health agency’s previous director retired in June, forcing a search for a new director in the middle of a global health crisis. Author: Julia Kauffman (WLTX) Updated: 11:18 PM EST February 4, 2021 COLUMBIA, S.C. — After eight months of searching, DHEC has a permanent director to help lead South Carolina through the pandemic. The Senate confirmed the doctor Thursday after the Medical Affairs Committee unanimously voted in favor of him. "The Medical Affairs Committee recommends a favorable consideration of the nomination of Doctor Edward D. Simmer to the post of Director of the Department of Health and Environmental Control," said Senator Danny Verdin on the Senate floor Thursday.