The Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO) is the title of the senior government official on matters related to the health and safety of Canadians. The post is held by a physician who acts as the head of the Public Health Agency of Canada. The current Chief Public Health Officer is Dr. Gregory W. Taylor.
The CPHO is responsible for:
Providing leadership of the Public Health Agency, newly established in 2004.
Providing advice to Ministers and, as appropriate, work with other federal departments and agencies, provincial/territorial governments, the international community, health practitioners and Canadians on public health issues.
Assuming the role of the federal government spokesperson on public health issues, in particular, during public health emergencies.
Taking a leadership/advocacy role in national public health matters and citizen engagement in public health.
