Alberta has announced the appointment of a new chief medical officer of health. Dr. Vivien Suttorp, who previously served as the lead medical health officer for the South Zone in the province, has assumed the position effective Thursday, as per a statement from the provincial government. This appointment follows a series of changes in the role since 2022, when Premier Danielle Smith fulfilled a campaign pledge to dismiss Dr. Deena Hinshaw due to concerns regarding COVID-19 health protocols.
After Dr. Hinshaw’s departure, Dr. Mark Joffe took on the role in an acting capacity until his contract expired earlier this year. Subsequently, Dr. Sunil Sookram was appointed as an interim replacement. Health Minister Adriana LaGrange highlighted Dr. Suttorp’s existing responsibilities in overseeing various public health aspects, workplace health and safety, and infection prevention and control in the southern region.
Expressing enthusiasm for Dr. Suttorp’s appointment, Minister LaGrange emphasized the importance of her leadership in advancing public health priorities for all Albertans.