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(CNS): Dr Hilary Wolf has been appointed as the Cayman Islands’ new chief medical officer following an open recruitment process. Dr Wolf is a public health specialist with a background in managing large-scale treatment programmes and developing health policy in partnership with international agencies, according to a release about her appointment. The Ministry of Health said she will support evidence-based decision-making, workforce development, and improved care, strengthening Cayman’s response to complex public health challenges and clinical governance across the system. She will replace outgoing CMO, Dr Nick Gent, who was due to step down last month but has remained in post until his replacement was found. The release said that Dr Wolf is a global health leader with two decades of experience in infectious disease control, health systems design, and pediatric medicine, with practical expertise in strengthening service delivery and building public health resilience. She served as the Care and Treatment Director at the United States Department of State, Bureau of Global Health Security and Diplomacy, where she was responsible for HIV treatment for over 20 million people living with HIV through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) in over 50 countries. Dr Wolf has been stationed in Sub-Saharan Africa and South America and has held advisory roles with the World Health Organization (WHO), Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and UNAIDS. She has worked with governments to design and implement policies on HIV treatment, reproductive health, and health workforce development. Dr Gent said it had been a privilege to serve the people of the Cayman Islands and was confident that there would be a smooth transition, as he wished Dr Wolf success as she takes on the job. The new CMO, who is already on island, thanked all who have given her such a warm welcome. “I am honoured to serve the people of the Cayman Islands as the chief medical officer. I am committed to strengthening health systems, advancing population health, improving health equity, and delivering trusted medical guidance as I work to contribute to the health and resilience of all those who call these beautiful islands home.” Health Minister Katherine Ebanks-Wilks said Dr Wolf’s appointment marks an important step in advancing the national health priorities and ensuring the Cayman Islands remain resilient in the face of evolving public health challenges. “Her experience in building partnerships across borders and institutions will also be vital as we continue to strengthen the links between health, environment, and sustainability. I welcome Dr Wolf to her new role and look forward to working with her in continuing to advance our health system and investing in the wellbeing of our people, for a healthier, more sustainable future Cayman,” the minister added. Chief Officer Tamara Ebanks said the ministry was looking forward to the perspective and technical insight Dr Wolf will bring, as her leadership and experience working within global and national health systems will be invaluable to the Cayman Islands’ health system and public health capacity. Deputy Governor Franz Manderson also welcomed her to the public service. “Dr Wolf brings a wealth of international experience and a deep understanding of clinical and public health systems,” he said. “Her appointment will strengthen the Cayman Islands’ capacity to address current and emerging health challenges, and I am confident she will serve our community with distinction.”
