Ottawa – Dr. Joss Reimer has been appointed as Canada’s next Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO), effective April 1, 2026. The announcement, made today by Minister of Health Marjorie Michel, marks a significant shift in leadership for the country’s public health response. This appointment of a novel chief public health officer comes at a time when restoring public trust in health institutions remains a critical priority, and tackling misinformation is paramount.
Dr. Reimer, currently based in Manitoba, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as the medical lead and spokesperson for Manitoba’s COVID-19 Vaccine Implementation Taskforce. She also held the position of medical director of public health for Winnipeg. Her background positions her to address current and future public health challenges facing Canadians.
A Proven Leader in Public Health
Minister Michel expressed her confidence in Dr. Reimer’s abilities, stating she looks forward to working with her. According to a statement released Friday, Michel believes Reimer’s “leadership, expertise and commitment to public health will be invaluable assets in protecting the health of Canadians.” The Government of Canada’s official announcement details the three-year term for the incoming CPHO.
Dr. Reimer’s appointment is particularly noteworthy given her prominent role during the COVID-19 pandemic in Manitoba. She became a familiar face to many Canadians through her clear and consistent communication regarding vaccine rollout and public health measures. Her ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner will be crucial in her new national role.
Priorities for the Incoming CPHO
One of Dr. Reimer’s stated priorities is addressing the growing issue of misinformation and disinformation related to public health. CBC News reported that she recognizes the need to rebuild trust in public health institutions, which has been eroded by the spread of false or misleading information.
Restoring public trust is a multifaceted challenge, requiring transparent communication, evidence-based decision-making, and a commitment to addressing legitimate concerns. Dr. Reimer’s experience navigating the complexities of the pandemic, including vaccine hesitancy and public resistance to health measures, will be invaluable in this effort.
A National Role Following Provincial Leadership
Prior to her appointment as CPHO, Dr. Reimer also served as the head of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA), leaving that post in 2025. This experience provides her with a broad understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the Canadian healthcare system as a whole. Her time at the CMA also likely provided valuable insights into the perspectives of physicians across the country.
The transition to the national stage comes after years of dedicated service within Manitoba’s public health system. Dr. Reimer’s work in Winnipeg focused on improving public health outcomes at the local level, and she is expected to bring that same commitment to her new role at the national level.
What’s Next
Dr. Reimer will officially assume her duties as Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer on April 1, 2026. She will be responsible for providing leadership and expert advice to the federal government on public health matters, including disease prevention, health promotion, and emergency preparedness. The Public Health Agency of Canada will be a key partner in her work.
As Dr. Reimer prepares to take on this critical role, Canadians will be looking to her for guidance and leadership in navigating the ongoing and evolving public health landscape. The next key date will be April 1, 2026, when she officially begins her term as CPHO.
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