Dr. Pat Parfrey, a seasoned medical professional with over forty years of experience, has stepped down from his position as the head of Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services. Premier Tony Wakeham made the announcement in a news release on Thursday evening. Ron Johnson, who previously held the roles of chief information officer and vice-president of digital health, information, and research within the health authority, has been appointed as the interim CEO.
Since April 2023, NLHS has been the primary health authority in Newfoundland and Labrador, a consolidation that was primarily driven by Parfrey’s efforts. He played a key role in recommending the merger of the previous four regional health authorities into one unified entity. Together with Sister Elizabeth Davis, Parfrey was instrumental in guiding the province’s Health Accord, a comprehensive 10-year plan aimed at transforming the healthcare system.
Parfrey expressed that he felt compelled to accept the role due to his deep understanding of the Health Accord, mentioning that he believed the position had chosen him. When approached for comment by CBC News, Parfrey declined to provide a statement. Premier Wakeham also announced changes to the health authority’s board of trustees, appointing Ross Wiseman, a respected public sector leader who previously served on the Health Accord’s task force, as a trustee and interim chairperson. Wiseman will take over from Bob Andrews, who will continue in his role as a trustee.
