Dr. Joss Reimer to become Canada's 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 appointment was announced about eight months after the role became vacant.

Dr. Joss Reimer, a physician from Manitoba, will become Canada's chief public health officer on April 1. The appointment was announced on Friday, roughly eight months after the position became vacant when Dr. Theresa Tam retired in June. Reimer served as chief medical officer for the Winnipeg health authority and previously led Manitoba's COVID-19 vaccine implementation task force. She holds a master's degree in public health and has conducted research on sexually transmitted infections and drug-related harms. Key details: - The appointment to the Public Health Agency was announced on Friday and Reimer will begin a three-year term on April 1. - She replaces Dr. Theresa Tam, who retired in June after eight years as chief public health officer. - Reimer was chief medical officer for the Winnipeg health authority and was the medical lead for Manitoba's COVID-19 vaccine implementation task force. - She holds a master's degree in public health and has researched sexually transmitted diseases and drug-related harms. - Health Minister Marjorie Michel said Reimer joins amid concerns including a resurgence of measles, avian influenza A (H5N1), HIV and tuberculosis, the illegal drug crisis, and false health information. - Reimer is a past president of the Canadian Medical Association; agency president Nancy Hamzawi and CMA president Margot Burnell commented on her leadership and experience. Summary: Reimer begins a three-year term on April 1 and will lead the Public Health Agency during a period officials described as challenging for public health. How her leadership will address the agency's listed priorities has not been detailed. Undetermined at this time.