Canada names Dr. Joss Reimer as new chief public health officer

Dr. Joss Reimer will begin a three-year term as Canada's chief public health officer on April 1, replacing Dr. Theresa Tam; the Health Minister said she will face several public health challenges.

Dr. Joss Reimer, a physician from Manitoba, has been named Canada's chief public health officer. Health Minister Marjorie Michel announced Reimer will begin a three-year term on April 1. She succeeds Dr. Theresa Tam, who retired in June. Reimer has held leadership roles including Chief Medical Officer for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and helped lead Manitoba's COVID-19 response. Key details: - Dr. Joss Reimer was named to the role and will start on April 1 for a three-year term. - She replaces Dr. Theresa Tam, who retired in June. - Reimer's past roles include Chief Medical Officer for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and leadership during Manitoba's COVID-19 response. - Health Minister Marjorie Michel said Reimer joins the Public Health Agency of Canada amid several public health concerns, including a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, and threats from avian influenza A, HIV and tuberculosis. - The minister also highlighted the illegal drug crisis and the harmful impacts of false health information as priorities for the role. - The Canadian Medical Association welcomed Reimer and CMA President Dr. Margot Burnell described her as a passionate leader; Reimer is a past president of the CMA. Summary: Reimer's appointment places a physician with provincial leadership experience at the head of the Public Health Agency of Canada as the country faces multiple public health challenges. She will begin her three-year term on April 1. Specific policy plans and timelines were not included in the announcement. Undetermined at this time.