Canada Appoints Dr. Joss Reimer as Chief Public Health Officer to Lead National Efforts Against Infectious Diseases and Health Crises Across Ottawa and Provinces

In a major public health announcement today from Ottawa, Marjorie Michel confirmed that Dr. Joss Reimer will serve as Canada’s new Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO) starting April 1, 2026.

She will hold the post for a three-year term, stepping into one of the country’s most influential public health roles at a time of pressing national health challenges.

A Career Defined by Public Health Leadership

Dr. Reimer brings extensive experience in both clinical medicine and population health.

She previously served as President of the Canadian Medical Association and as Chief Medical Officer for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.

Her work spans health communications, health equity, sexually transmitted and bloodborne infections, and immunization programs.

Beyond administrative roles, Dr. Reimer has contributed to numerous scientific publications in both of Canada’s official languages.

She also led Manitoba’s COVID-19 Vaccine Taskforce as medical lead and spokesperson, helping guide the province through the pandemic while prioritizing clear communication and public trust.

Academic and International Achievements

Dr. Reimer completed her medical training at University of Manitoba and McMaster University, with specialized training in obstetrics and gynecology before focusing on public health.

She also earned a master’s degree in public health, conducting research in health communication in Nairobi, Kenya, and has led studies on sexually transmitted infections and drug-related harms in Canada and Colombia.

Her dedication to public health has earned her numerous honors, including the King Charles III Coronation Medal, Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, the St. John Ambulance Pandemic Medallion, and recognition as Humanitarian of the Year by Doctors Manitoba.

She is also a Distinguished Alumni of the University of Manitoba.

A Focus on Current Public Health Threats

Dr. Reimer joins the Public Health Agency of Canada at a pivotal moment. Canada faces ongoing challenges such as:

• A resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases, including measles.

• Threats from avian influenza A(H5N1).

• Persistent HIV and tuberculosis cases.

• The impacts of the illegal drug crisis on communities.

• The spread of false health information and its effect on public trust.

Minister Michel emphasized that Dr. Reimer will collaborate with PHAC and partners to strengthen public health responses and improve readiness for emerging threats and crises.

What’s Next?

• Dr. Reimer will officially assume the role of CPHO on April 1, 2026, and begin overseeing national public health initiatives.

• Immediate priorities will likely include vaccination campaigns, addressing misinformation, and responding to outbreaks of infectious diseases.

• Partnerships with provincial health authorities and international organizations will be key to coordinating Canada’s response to health threats.

• Public engagement and physician wellness initiatives will remain central to her approach, reflecting her long-standing advocacy for health equity and professional support.

Summary

By ERIN DEBORAH WAKS, TRAVEL WRITER

Canada has appointed Dr. Joss Reimer as its next Chief Public Health Officer, effective April 1, 2026, for a three-year term.

A former President of the Canadian Medical Association and Chief Medical Officer for Winnipeg, Dr. Reimer brings extensive experience in public health, immunizations, and health communications.

Her international research includes work in Kenya, Colombia, and Canada, and she has received multiple awards for her contributions to medicine and public service.

Dr. Reimer will lead the Public Health Agency of Canada at a critical time, tackling challenges such as vaccine-preventable diseases, avian influenza, HIV, tuberculosis, the illegal drug crisis, and combating health misinformation, while working with national and international partners to strengthen Canada’s public health infrastructure.f