2025
Canada’s next top doctor must be a ‘focal point’ for public health amid changes in the U.S., concerns about next pandemic
June 30, 2025
As the Public Health Agency of Canada prepares for a new chief public health officer, former and current medical professionals—including a current Liberal MP—say the new chief doctor should be a prominent public voice who can build trust with Canadians, and also ensure that Canada continues to invest in preparing for the next pandemic.
Ian Culbert, executive director of the Canadian Public Health Association, said he wants to see more vocal messaging about the importance of vaccines and public health overall from all levels of public health officers
<…Experts point to B.C., Ontario for why Nova Scotia should not expand alcohol access
June 27, 2025
"We need to get that message to the province before they make the same mistakes as Ontario and British Columbia have made," said Ian Culbert, the executive director of the Canadian Public Health Association, who is a signatory.
Health-care unions call for Alberta to reverse plan to limit free COVID-19 vaccines
June 17, 2025
Two of Alberta's health-care workers' unions are calling on Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's government to reverse its policy forcing many — including front-line medical staff — to pay for a COVID-19 vaccination. ...the Canadian Public Health Association echoed the call for Alberta to reverse course. It noted the exclusion of pharmacies will limit access for rural residents, shift workers and others who rely on community-based care. The non-profit organization said over-ordering and poor forecasting should not be used to justify introducing barriers to care.
Alberta legislature adjourns after passing 19 bills, both parties lose caucus members
May 16, 2025
The last bill to be approved saw Smith’s government take another step in its overhaul of the health-care system by officially shuffling workers represented by five different unions from Alberta Health Services to a different agency and the Health Ministry.
As a result, policy workers, public health inspectors and medical officers of health will be moved under the umbrella of the Health Ministry.
The Canadian Public Health Association criticized the move this week, saying it risks “undermining the effectiveness, integrity and independence of public health in Alberta”…
Air and water pollution: A public health concern requiring proactive measures
May 15, 2025
The health of Canadians is inextricably linked to the health of our environment. Clean air and water are fundamental determinants of health, yet pollution continues to pose challenges to communities across the country. The Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) recognizes the need for policies that protect the environment as a means of safeguarding public health. Air and water pollution are not just environmental issues – they are public health matters that require coordinated action at all levels of government and society.
Higher measles risk heightens anxiety for immunocompromised individuals
May 7, 2025
As measles re-emerges in Ottawa for the first time since 2019, immunocompromised people, who can include those undergoing cancer treatments, living with autoimmune diseases or taking immunosuppressive medications, face much higher risks of severe illness from the virus.
Could at-home test strips prevent drug deaths? Experts say yes, but it's complicated
April 24, 2025
Canadians are dying alone from toxic drugs and experts say easier access to at-home drug-testing strips could help prevent deaths. But they warn the strips have limitations.
Four new studies show link between heavy cannabis use, serious health risks
April 15, 2025
New Canadian research shows a connection between heavy cannabis use and dementia, heart attacks, schizophrenia and even death.
Canadian Medical Groups Urge Participation in April Election
April 10, 2025
With the sudden imposition of US tariffs dominating the debate about Canada’s April 28 federal elections, medical groups are seeking to keep healthcare concerns on the agenda.
Canada’s Supervised Consumption Sites Come Under Fire
April 8, 2025
Despite evidence of their effectiveness in reducing overdose-related deaths, supervised consumption sites (SCS) are being targeted in Canada because of concerns that they cause public disorder, attract criminal activity, and threaten community safety.