The board of the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit announced today that Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Charles Gardner will be retiring in September.
The region’s top doctor has had a career in the public health sector for more than two decades.
Dr. Gardner has served as medical officer of health (MOH) for Simcoe Muskoka since 2005, after serving for seven years in the same role for seven years with with the Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit.
He began his career as a general medical practitioner in Newfoundland, New Brunswick, and Zimbabwe.
Dr. Gardner has been a dedicated advocate for public health and has been recognized with various awards.with the Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit.with the Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit.
“Dr. Gardner’s leadership during large-scale health crises has been a defining aspect of his career. From pandemic influenza planning in 2006 to managing the H1N1 outbreak in 2009, and most recently guiding the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Gardner has consistently provided calm and strategic leadership. His dedication during these challenging times has been instrumental in protecting the health of our communities,” states the health unit.
“Dr. Gardner’s dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on public health in Simcoe Muskoka and beyond. His tireless commitment to promoting health and well-being in our communities will be remembered for years to come. While his absence will be felt deeply, we are immensely grateful for his contributions and wish him all the best in this next chapter,” stated Ann-Marie Kungl, chair of the board of health.
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit Board of Health will begin the process of recruiting for a successor while also planning a celebration to recognize Dr. Gardner’s contributions to public health.
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