BC hires Alberta’s former top doctor, who oversaw COVID-19 response, as deputy health officer

Two-and-a-half months after being fired as Alberta’s chief medical officer, Dr. Deena Hinshaw has landed in a new role one province over.

Dr. Bonnie Henry announced today that Alberta’s former top doctor, who oversaw the province’s COVID-19 response, has been hired as British Columbia’s deputy provincial health officer.

Hinshaw is joining BC’s public health leadership team on a six-month contract while Dr. Martin Lavoie is on temporary assignment, Henry said.

"The toxic drug crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing responses to heat, wildfires and outbreaks have shown just how critically important the work we do in public health is in supporting and protecting people and communities throughout BC,” Henry explained.

"To help strengthen BC's preparedness and response to present and future public health emergencies, I am pleased to share new additions to our public health leadership team at the Office of the PHO.”

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith replaced Hinshaw as Alberta’s chief medical officer in mid-November, shortly after taking office.

Henry also announced the addition of Dr. Andrew Larder, who will join the provincial public health leadership team on a temporary assignment as well.

Larder previously served as a medical health officer at both Fraser Health and Interior Health.

"I feel very fortunate to work alongside such talented and dedicated public health experts,” added Henry.

“I know their expertise will be a great assistance as we emerge from the pandemic and continue to address the many public health challenges facing the province."