We are deeply saddened by the recent passing of Douglas Mack, MD, MPH, whose life and career were defined by a steadfast commitment to improving public health and advocating for those most often overlooked, including incarcerated populations.
Throughout more than three decades in public health leadership — most notably with the Kent County (MI) Health Department — Dr. Mack worked tirelessly to make communities safer, healthier, and more equitable. He also served as chief medical examiner and earned deep respect across the field. In recognition of his impact, the Kent County Medical Society established the Douglas A. Mack Award, honoring excellence in public health leadership, program evaluation, and community impact.
Dr. Mack’s dedication to correctional health care and public health integration was visionary. He understood that the health of incarcerated populations is inseparable from the health of the broader community. His influence extended nationally through his longstanding service with NCCHC, where he served on the Board of Directors for nearly 30 years. He uniquely represented three national organizations in sequence — the National Association of Counties, the National Association of County and City Health Officials, and the American Association of Public Health Physicians — and was one of the few board members selected by peers to serve as Board Chair twice. His service spanned numerous committees, including accreditation, education, and finance.
In 1994, Dr. Mack helped shape national public health policy when he joined fellow board members in meeting with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, helping advance federal engagement in correctional health care. Beyond this, he contributed to numerous HIV/AIDS advisory groups, national committees, and task forces, while also mentoring future public health leaders as a clinical professor at Michigan State University.
Dr. Mack will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments, but for his mentorship, friendship, and unwavering belief that quality, ethical health care should be accessible to all. His legacy lives on in the systems he strengthened, the policies he helped shape, and the many professionals he inspired.
At this time, the family has not shared details regarding funeral services.
