Three new deputy Chief Public Health Officers have been appointed to support the work of the Chief Public Health Officer, Associate Professor Nicola Spurrier, in leading South Australia's response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Premier of South Australia, Steven Marshall said the three appointments were part of the State Government's strong and clear plan to protect and prepare South Australia for the impacts of coronavirus.
"The health and safety of South Australians is our top priority and will be better supported with the appointment of these clinicians and public health experts to top roles," Premier Marshall said.
"These new appointments are pivotal part to our strong plan to both minimise and slow the spread of coronavirus, and to ensure health has all the resources it needs to prepare for and deal with the virus.
"We are delivering on our commitment to act swiftly and decisively so we stay ahead of the curve and keep South Australians safe."
Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Stephen Wade said that the government is determined to ensure that SA Health has everything it needs to get ahead of this virus.
"We are working every single day to strengthen the state's response to COVID-19. By providing SA Health with all the resources required to effectively coordinate a comprehensive state-wide response, we are doing everything we can to stop the spread of coronavirus," Minister Wade said.
"Associate Professor Nicola Spurrier is demonstrating remarkable leadership during this challenging time and will now have the extra support she needs to ensure our state is well-placed to manage the public health response in a fast-changing environment," Minister Wade said.
The three new deputies are:
· Dr Evan Everest, Senior Intensive Care Consultant FMC/Deputy State Controller Health
· Dr Michael Cusack, Acting Chief Medical Officer / Executive Director Medical Services (NALHN)
· Dr Chris Lease, Executive Director Health Protection and Licensing Services
Assoc. Prof. Nicola Spurrier said she warmly welcomed the appointment of the new deputies.
"The expertise of these highly respected clinicians and public health professionals will bolster our readiness to slow the spread of the virus and protect the health and wellbeing of the most vulnerable in our community," Assoc. Prof. Spurrier said.
"Each of the deputies will take responsibility for particular streams of work under the state's response to ensure every area of the health system receives close attention.
"Dr Michael Cusack will lead primary care and out-of-hospital services such as aged care and the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
"Areas such as clinical systems and high acuity, which includes ICU surge capacity and managing elective surgery, will be led by Dr
Evan Everest, while Dr Chris Lease will lead whole-of-government work including areas such as education, corrections and child protection.
"I wish to thank everyone who is doing their part by following our advice and taking simple precautions at home and in the workplace – washing hands, cleaning surfaces and staying home if you are unwell."
For the latest information on COVID-19 in South Australia, visit the SA Health website.
