AMA (WA) President Dr Kyle Hoath has welcomed the appointment of Dr Clare Huppatz as WA’s Chief Health Officer (CHO).
“On behalf on the AMA (WA) and our members, I congratulate Dr Huppatz on her appointment to this pivotal role,” he said.
“Serving as Deputy Chief Health Officer for several years, including the highly challenging COVID period, means she is well equipped to respond to the demands of the State’s health system at the highest level.
“We pay tribute to the former CHO Dr Andrew Robertson, an AMA (WA) member, for his dedicated service to our State, and wish him well for the future. He has provided excellent role modelling for Dr Huppatz.”
In 2023, Dr Clare Huppatz was awarded a Public Service Medal for her outstanding public service through management of public health responses during COVID.
Health Minister Hon Meredith Hammat MLA acknowledged that the new appointee is the first woman appointed as CHO in Western Australia.
“Dr Huppatz brings to this position a wealth of expertise in public health, general practice, epidemiology, health promotion and leadership,” Ms Hammat said.
“She is already an asset to our State, protecting and promoting the health of Western Australians, and by stepping up to the role of Chief Health Officer we know she will build on the outstanding work of her predecessor, Dr Andrew Robertson.
“Her particular interest in Aboriginal health and remote and regional communities positions her well for this role in our vast and unique State.”
The AMA (WA) looks forward to working constructively with Dr Huppatz in her role as CHO, particularly on practical measures that protect community health and support doctors in delivering safe, timely care.
