The Government of Alberta has announced the appointment of a new, permanent chief medical officer of health, marking a significant step in stabilizing a key public health leadership position that has seen considerable turnover in recent years.
A Seasoned Public Health Leader Takes the Helm
Effective December 18, 2025, Dr. Vivien Suttorp assumes the role of Alberta's top public health physician. Dr. Suttorp brings a wealth of experience to the position, with a career in public, preventive, and community medicine spanning more than 25 years. Her background includes work in both urban and rural health settings across the province. Most recently, she served as the lead medical officer of health for Alberta's south zone.
In an official statement, Dr. Suttorp expressed her commitment to the new role. "I am honoured to accept the role of chief medical officer of health for Alberta to support efforts to promote a strong public health system in the province and improve the overall health and well-being of Albertans," she said. "I look forward to helping ensure the public health care needs of communities in Alberta are met."
Navigating a Period of Transition and Turbulence
Dr. Suttorp succeeds Dr. Sunil Sookram, who had been serving in an interim capacity since his appointment in April 2025. Dr. Sookram, in turn, had taken over from Dr. Mark Joffe, whose contract concluded after nearly three years. Dr. Joffe's departure occurred amid controversy related to the provincial response to a significant surge in measles cases. He had also originally been appointed as an interim CMOH.
This appointment ends a period of instability criticized by opponents of the United Conservative Party government. Critics have argued that Alberta has lacked a permanent chief medical officer since the departure of Dr. Deena Hinshaw over three years ago. Dr. Hinshaw led the province's public health response through the COVID-19 pandemic, becoming a focal point for both support and opposition to the government's pandemic policies.
Dr. Hinshaw was removed from the position shortly after Premier Danielle Smith was sworn in during October 2022. Premier Smith had previously vowed to dismiss Hinshaw, citing perceived shortcomings in the pandemic response by her and Alberta Health Services.
Responsibilities in a Reformed Health System
The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for health care delivery in Alberta. The province is currently transitioning its health system into four major components, a restructuring that will significantly reduce the role of Alberta Health Services (AHS).
Health Minister Adriana LaGrange welcomed Dr. Suttorp's appointment. "I am very pleased to welcome Dr. Suttorp to this vital role and I look forward to her leadership in advancing public health priorities for all Albertans," LaGrange stated.
In her new capacity, Dr. Suttorp's key responsibilities will include:
- Monitoring the health of the Alberta population.
- Providing leadership in response to emerging health threats, including communicable disease prevention.
- Supporting health risk assessment initiatives.
- Collaborating with provincial health agencies and various government ministries.
As the third person to hold the title since 2022, Dr. Suttorp now faces the dual challenge of providing steady leadership for Alberta's public health agenda while navigating the complexities of the government's ongoing health system reorganization.
