Dr. Joss Reimer has been appointed Canada’s new chief public health officer, a role she will assume on April 1. With a formidable background in public health and a clear vision for the future, Reimer will prioritise addressing health misinformation and restoring confidence in public health institutions—challenges that have become increasingly urgent in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Challenge of Misinformation
During a recent interview, Reimer emphasised the rapid evolution of health misinformation, noting its potential to undermine public trust. “One of the biggest challenges with health misinformation is the speed at which it changes,” she stated. “It doesn’t take much time to conjure up a lie.” The pandemic has severely affected the credibility of health institutions, leading to a widespread erosion of trust among Canadians. “There was so much difficulty—people were losing jobs and income, people were being separated from loved ones,” she reflected. “Whether those decisions were right or wrong, it was hard for everyone, and we have a lot of trust-building to do, which will take years.”
Reimer takes over from Dr. Theresa Tam, who became a prominent figure during the pandemic, providing near-daily updates about evolving health guidelines and epidemiological data. After an impactful eight-year tenure, Tam retired last June, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service.
Experience and Insights
Reimer’s extensive experience includes serving as the chief medical officer for the Winnipeg health authority and leading Manitoba’s COVID-19 vaccine implementation task force. Her unique perspective on the current health landscape is shaped by personal experiences, particularly concerning the measles outbreak in her hometown, where vaccine hesitancy has been a significant concern. “We need partnerships from the ground up, involving community leaders and extending all the way to the federal government,” she asserted.
This concern is particularly pressing as Canada has recently lost its measles elimination status, a distinction it had maintained since 1998. The resurgence of measles cases is alarming, as health officials warn that misinformation and vaccine hesitancy are significant contributing factors. “It’s not surprising that measles cases are on the rise, given how incredibly infectious the disease is and the growing spread of misinformation,” Reimer stated.
A Collaborative Approach to Public Health
Health Minister Marjorie Michel has highlighted the critical timing of Reimer’s appointment, noting the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, avian influenza A (H5N1), HIV, and tuberculosis, alongside the ongoing impacts of the illegal drug crisis. “We face the harmful impacts of false health information, which complicate our efforts,” Michel remarked.
Reimer is aware of the challenges posed by misinformation, stating that Canada must rely on its own sources to disseminate accurate information. She acknowledged the valuable contributions of individuals within the American health system but stressed the need for Canada to ensure it is sharing trustworthy health information independently.
Reimer’s academic credentials include a master’s degree in public health, and her research has focused on sexually transmitted diseases and drug-related harms. Nancy Hamzawi, president of the Public Health Agency of Canada, expressed confidence in Reimer’s leadership, stating, “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.”
A Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy
Dr. Margot Burnell, the current president of the Canadian Medical Association, praised Reimer for her calm and measured approach during the pandemic. Under her leadership, the CMA has actively fought against false health information and advocated for improved access to healthcare across the nation.
Reimer’s commitment to the health of Canadians and her previous role in delivering a formal apology to Indigenous Peoples for the medical profession’s historical harms further underscore her dedication to equity and justice in health.
Why it Matters
Dr. Joss Reimer’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Canada and its public health landscape. With misinformation proliferating and public trust waning, her focus on rebuilding relationships with communities and fostering transparent communication will be essential in guiding Canadians toward healthier futures. As the country navigates complex health challenges, Reimer’s leadership will be crucial in ensuring that sound, evidence-based information prevails, ultimately safeguarding the health and well-being of all Canadians.
