SANTA FE, N.M. — Patrick Allen, the Secretary of the New Mexico Department of Health, is resigning from his position after serving for under two years.

On Wednesday, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, made the announcement, stating that Allen would be leaving by the end of the day. The governor did not specify the reasons behind his departure but expressed gratitude for Allen’s contributions to the Health Department during his tenure.

His exit adds to the growing list of cabinet secretaries who have left the administration, as Lujan Grisham is currently in her second term. In recent months, notable turnover has been observed in essential agencies, including the Public Education Department and the Children, Youth and Families Department.

Allen was appointed by Lujan Grisham to lead the Health Department in January 2023, recognized for his extensive policy experience. Before taking this role, he was the director of the Oregon Health Authority, where he gained relevant expertise.

In light of Allen’s resignation, Gina DeBlassie, the health policy advisor to Lujan Grisham, will step in as the interim cabinet secretary. The governor’s office highlighted DeBlassie’s impressive background, which includes over three decades of experience in the healthcare sector. Notably, she served as the chief operating officer for a firm that offers home care services for seniors. Additionally, she stepped in as the interim head of the state’s Aging and Long-Term Services Department last year following the retirement of its secretary.