House panel hears testimony from Hannah Milke, governor’s appointee to Alaska State Medical Board

Hannah Milke, a governor’s appointee and self-described lifelong Alaskan, appeared remotely before the House Health and Social Services Committee on May 5 to introduce herself as the committee considered her appointment to the Alaska State Medical Board.

Milke said she seeks to serve as a public member who is not affiliated with the medical industry and described the role as reviewing licensing matters and voting based on the law and what benefits Alaskans. "I would offer a unique perspective on the board as a young female Alaskan who cares about bettering our great state," Milke said.

Committee members asked about Milke’s background and readiness. Representative Gray confirmed Milke works in Anchorage at the governor’s reception desk and noted Milke graduated high school in 2025; Gray asked about Milke’s near-term plans for education and public service. Representative Schwanke thanked Milke but said her youth raised concerns about potential gaps handling serious disciplinary matters; he asked whether rehabilitation or probation has a role versus suspension or revocation for an incompetent physician. Milke responded that she was appointed one week ago, has not yet had time to review all board materials, and intends to assess each case on the facts presented before voting.

Milke noted she is the only woman currently serving on the board and said she looks forward to bringing that perspective and ensuring equal representation. Chair Mina closed the public-testimony period — no members of the public testified — and thanked Milke for calling in and agreeing to serve. The committee did not take a confirmation vote in the hearing.

The committee adjourned at 3:57 p.m.