Chatham-Kent has a new medical officer of health.
Dr. Mario Kangeswaren has been hired to lead Chatham-Kent Public Health following Dr. David Colby’s retirement.
The announcement was made Wednesday at a special board of health meeting.
Kangeswaren brings impressive credentials to the job. He holds a medical degree from Saba University in the Netherlands, a Masters of Science in Family Medicine from McGill University and a Masters of Public Health from the University of Waterloo.
In addition, he has trained and practiced in a wide variety of rural and urban locations across Canada and the U.S.
The doctor has experience supporting Indigenous populations, both at Indigenous health centres and at reserves in Canada’s north.
Kangeswaren made a brief online appearance during the special online meeting, saying he is “very excited” about relocating to Chatham-Kent, adding he is “greatly appreciative of the opportunity.”
C-K board of health chairman Joe Faas welcomed Kangeswaren to the team, noting officials are “looking forward to a long and healthy relationship” with the physician.
“I believe that he brings with him a fresh perspective that will serve the Chatham-Kent community well,” Faas said.
Dr. April Rietdyk, general manager of community human services for Chatham-Kent, said Kangeswaren brings a wealth of experience to the position as he has spent the last several years working in northern Ontario, often with marginalized communities.
“We’re very, very excited to have him join our team,” Rietdyk said.
Kangeswaren will serve as the acting medical officer of health until approval is received from the Ministry of Health as outlined in the Health Protection and Promotion Act.
He is expected to begin his duties no later than Aug. 29, but that date could be moved ahead if he is able to expedite his relocation.
In the interim, the board has authorized Dr. Ian Arra and Dr. Ninh Tran to provide MOH vacation coverage until Kangeswaren’s arrival.
