Manitoba’s Joss Reimer named as Canada’s chief public health officer

Dr. Joss Reimer was appointed Canada’s new chief public health officer.

Dr. Joss Reimer—the medical lead for Manitoba’s COVID-19 vaccine task force—has been appointed as Canada’s next chief public health officer.

The Government of Canada made the announcement on Friday, saying Reimer will begin her three-year term in the role beginning on April 1, 2026.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Joss Reimer to the Public Health Agency of Canada,” said Nancy Hamzawi, president of the Public Health Agency of Canada, in a news release.

“At a time when strong, science-driven leadership has never been more important, I am confident that her vision and dedication will help advance the public health and well-being of Canadians.”

Reimer is the past president of the Canadian Medical Association, as well as the chief medical officer for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.

She completed her medical training at the University of Manitoba and McMaster University and worked nine years as the undergraduate director of population health at the University of Manitoba.

Reimer, who was voted Humanitarian of the Year by Doctors Manitoba, has a master’s degree in public health, with research that’s focused on sexually transmitted infections and drug-related harms.

She is also the recipient of numerous awards, including the King Charles III Coronation Medal, Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal and the University of Manitoba Distinguished Alumni Award.

“Public health is about uniting efforts to protect and promote the well-being of people in Canada, especially those who are most vulnerable,” Reimer said.

“I look forward to collaborating with colleagues and partners domestically and internationally, and with communities across the country toward this important goal.”

In a statement, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority said this “well-deserved” appointment reflects Reimer’s leadership, dedication, and expertise in the advancement of health care.

The organization noted that Reimer has made significant and meaningful contributions to the health-care system, most notably as the medical lead for the COVID-19 task force.

“We are sincerely grateful for her commitment to public health and look forward to seeing the continued success she will undoubtedly bring in this new role and to the improvement of the health and well-being of people in Canada,” the statement said.

Reimer will be taking over the role from interim chief public health officer Dr. Howard Njoo.