RCDHU Board of Health appoints new Acting Medical Officer of Health

Submitted by Renfrew County and District Health Unit:

The Board of Health for Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) is announcing that Dr. Robert Cushman, Acting Medical Officer of Health (MOH), will not be renewing his contract at the end of this year (December 31, 2022). The Board of Health and all RCDHU staff extend their gratitude and heartfelt appreciation for his service to staff and residents of Renfrew County and District (RCD) over the past five years. His exemplary public health leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic provided guidance, support and reassurance to our partners and the residents of RCD during very uncertain times. Above: Dr. Ian Gemmill (L) will replace Dr. Robert Cushman

To ensure continuity of services, the Board of Health is pleased to announce that Dr. Ian Gemmill has been appointed as Acting MOH for the interim period of January 1 to April 30, 2023. Dr. Gemmill is a public health physician who has worked in Kingston, Ottawa and other areas in Ontario for over 40 years. We look forward to welcoming him to the RCDHU team.

“We cannot thank Dr. Cushman enough for everything he has done over the past five years to help us work toward our goal of achieving optimal health for all in Renfrew County and District. His leadership will be missed. We look forward to working with Dr. Gemmill as we transition into post-pandemic recovery. We are grateful that he has agreed to join our team and share his passion and expertise as we continue to work with our partners to respond to local public health needs,” states Ann Aikens, Chair, Board of Health, RCDHU.
While RCDHU welcomes Dr. Gemmill as Acting MOH, the Board of Health is actively recruiting for a permanent, full-time Medical Officer of Health.

Renfrew County & District Health Unit(2022,Oct.27) Board of Health Announces Upcoming Changes to Medical Officer of Health [media release]