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

Dr. Joss Reimer, a Manitoba physician who helped lead that province's COVID-19 response, will begin a three-year term as Canada's chief public health officer on April 1, replacing Dr. Theresa Tam.

Dr. Joss Reimer of Manitoba has been named Canada's new chief public health officer and will begin a three-year term on April 1. She replaces Dr. Theresa Tam, who retired in June. Reimer has held leadership roles in provincial and national medical organizations and helped lead Manitoba's COVID-19 response. Health Minister Marjorie Michel described the appointment as occurring "at a critical time" for public health in Canada. Key facts: - The appointment begins April 1 and is for a three-year term. - Reimer succeeds Dr. Theresa Tam, who retired in June. - Her past roles include chief medical officer for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and past president of the Canadian Medical Association. - Minister Michel highlighted priorities including the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, avian influenza A, HIV, tuberculosis, the illegal drug crisis, and harmful impacts of false health information. - Reimer has been recognized for COVID-19 vaccination leadership, delivered the CMA's 2024 apology to Indigenous Peoples, received a 2022 humanitarian award from Doctors Manitoba, works as a hospitalist in maternity care, and will be based in Ottawa. Summary: Reimer will lead the Public Health Agency of Canada at a time when several infectious diseases and other public health issues have been identified as priorities. She will start the role on April 1 and serve a three-year term; further developments in agency priorities and actions were not detailed in the article.