WHO appoints regional director for the Americas

Dominica's former chief medical officer Dominica Dr Carissa Etienne has been appointed regional director for the World Health Organization's (WHO) Americas region.

Taking up on the position on February 1, Dr Etienne succeeds Argentina's Dr Mirta Roses Periago who leaves after 10 years in the position.

In addition to serving as Dominica's chief medical officer in two separate spells (1996-1996 and 2000-2002), Dr Etienne has also served as the Caribbean country's director of primary healthcare services, disaster coordinator and national epidemiologist in the ministry of health.

She also has previous experience in the WHO, serving as assistant director of the Pan American Health Organization, WHO's regional office for the Americas, from 2003 to 2008.

Between 2008 and 2012, she was assistant director-general, health systems and services at the WHO's headquarters in Switzerland.

A large part of her work has involved the promotion of integrations in healthcare systems and promoting policies that reduce inequalities in healthcare.

“I believe strongly that good health is rooted in equity, universality, solidarity and inclusiveness,” said Dr Etienne in her acceptance speech.

“I have learned that universal health coverage is not only the best way to improve the health of every citizen in a country – but that it is entirely feasible.”