PROVIDENCE – Gary Alexander was confirmed by the R.I. Senate last week as secretary of the R.I. Executive Office of Health and Human Services.

Alexander, who previously served as director of the R.I. Department of Human Services, will be primarily charged with helping to overhaul the state’s Medicaid system.

“The Global Waiver is an unprecedented approach to how government delivers services to the population, and is widely viewed as model for state Medicaid programs in the future,” said Gov. Donald L. Carcieri in a statement announcing Alexander’s confirmation. “I am confident Gary will continue to serve with distinction as the state moves forward to implement the waiver effectively to better serve our most vulnerable populations.”

Alexander, 40, is also expected to play a role in reforming the state’s cash-assistance program, RI Works.

A 2008 initiative of Carcieri’s, the welfare-to-work program RI Works provides transitional benefits for needy families, along with appropriate work support for those entering or re-entering the job market. •