SWPH Board of Health Hires a New Medical Officer of Health

Monday, 14 February 2022 10:57

Dr. Ninh Tran will take over for the retiring Dr. Joyce Lock on March 21, 2022.

A new local Medical Officer of Health has been hired to take over for the retiring Dr. Joyce Lock.

Southwestern Public Health's Board of Health made the announcement this morning.

Dr. Ninh Tran will take over the role on March 21, 2022. He currently serves as the Associate Medical Officer of Health for Hamilton Public Health Services. Dr. Tran was hired after a thorough recruitment process.

He is also a practicing primary care provider and has had both administrative and instructional duties with McMaster University’s Public Health and Preventive Medicine Residency Program in the Department of Health Research Methods, Evaluation, and Impact.

Dr. Tran holds a medical degree from Queen’s University, a Master’s degree in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Guelph, and a Master’s degree in Health Research Methodology from McMaster University.

Chair of the Southwestern Public Health Board and Oxford County Warden Larry Martin says Dr. Tran stood out from the rest in the recruitment process.

"In a field of excellent candidates, Dr. Tran stood out for his alignment with Southwestern Public Health’s core values. His work in health research methods, evidence and impact will help us meet our goal of implementing the types of services that respond to local needs and demonstrate value for residents."

Southwestern Public Health Chief Executive Officer Cynthia St. John is excited about the new hire.

"I am confident that as our work combating COVID-19 decreases over time and we continue with our attention on the significant health and social inequities that impact our communities, Dr. Tran’s leadership will help us in our work with individuals, partners, and the systems that impact population health."

Dr. Tran says he is excited to start his new role.

"I'm eager to bring my passion for population health and my experience as an Associate Medical Officer of Health to serve the residents of Oxford County, Elgin County and the City of St. Thomas. We're at a pivotal moment in the pandemic’s evolution. I look forward to helping Southwestern Public Health achieve its vision of healthy people in vibrant communities after two very difficult years."