Dr. Suttorp brings more than 25 years of experience in public health, preventive and community medicine across both urban and rural settings. For the past 17 years, she has served as lead medical officer of health for the South Zone, overseeing all aspects of public health while supporting workplace health and safety, and infection prevention and control.
Throughout recent public health challenges, she has provided expert advice and guidance to support provincial decision-making and response efforts. She succeeds Dr. Sunil Sookram, who has served with dedication as interim chief medical officer of health since April, providing steady leadership during a period of transition.
“On behalf of Alberta’s government, I sincerely thank Dr. Sunil Sookram for his dedication and leadership during his time as interim chief medical officer of health. 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.”
“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. I look forward to helping ensure the public health care needs of communities across Alberta are met.”
As chief medical officer of health, Dr. Suttorp will be responsible for:
- Monitoring the health of Albertans and making recommendations to promote and protect public health.
- Providing leadership and advice on measures to respond to new and emerging health threats.
- Overseeing programs for communicable disease prevention, surveillance, immunization, outbreak detection and control, and health promotion.
- Advising on the development, implementation and coordination of public health policy.
- Leading environmental public health initiatives and infection prevention and control measures.
- Supporting health risk assessments, reports and analysis.
- Collaborating with provincial health agencies, government ministries and key stakeholders to build healthy communities.
Dr. Suttorp’s appointment reinforces Alberta’s commitment to strong, experienced public health leadership and ensures continued expert guidance in protecting and promoting the health of Albertans. With her extensive experience and deep understanding of Alberta’s public health system, she is well positioned to support effective public health action and collaboration across the province.