Alberta has announced the appointment of a new chief medical officer of health. Dr. Vivien Suttorp, who previously held the position of lead medical health officer for the South Zone in the province, has assumed the role starting Thursday, as per an official communication from the provincial government.
Since 2022, there have been various changes in this position. Following an election pledge by Premier Danielle Smith to dismiss Dr. Deena Hinshaw due to dissatisfaction with COVID-19 health protocols, the role saw a series of transitions. Dr. Mark Joffe served as an interim chief medical officer of health until earlier this year when his term concluded.
Subsequently, Dr. Sunil Sookram was appointed temporarily to the position. Health Minister Adriana LaGrange highlighted Dr. Suttorp’s existing oversight of public health matters, workplace health and safety, and infection prevention and control in the southern region. LaGrange expressed optimism about Dr. Suttorp’s new leadership role in advancing public health priorities for all Albertans, stating, “I am very pleased to welcome Dr. Suttorp to this crucial position.”
