Meet Our Health Director - Dr. Marilyn Pearson

Dr. Pearson began her career in the Johnston County Health Department as the Medical Director. After 7 years as a physician in the Johnston County Health Department clinics, she became Health Director and Medical Director, directly supervising three physicians, five mid-level providers, and other managerial support teams.

In this capacity, she oversees services provided in the adult, pediatric, epidemiology, maternity, and family planning clinics. In addition, vaccines, WIC, environmental, and health education services are also offered. In 2013, she led the expansion of the health department with the addition of the behavioral health services division. Pearson’s work in working with other health partners in Johnston County to strengthen the medical safety net for the uninsured and underinsured is a key focus of her work.

Marilyn R. Pearson, MD was chosen as 2015 Health Director of the Year for her leadership and commitment to the health and well being of the residents of Johnston County. The North Carolina Health Director of the Year Award was created by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners and is implemented through the North Carolina Association of Local Health Directors, an affiliate of the NCACC and is given to an individual for outstanding leadership in both public health in North Carolina and for leadership and involvement in local community and civic activities.

She was also recognized for her extensive service on several boards and committees, including the Living Well Partnership of Johnston County, the Johnston County Schools Agency Round Table, Partnership for Children, and Project Access of Johnston and Harnett Counties. Her statewide associations include membership on the Community Care of North Carolina Board and in 2011, she was appointed as Congressional District 2 Representative for the Division of Medical Assistance Medical Care Advisory Committee.

Pearson received her Bachelor of Science Degree from Clemson University and her MD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She completed her Internship and Residency in Family Medicine at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC and is currently a Diplomate of the American Board of Family Practice.