Dr. Kim Hogarth Takes Charge as Alberta’s First Chief Nursing Officer

Primary Care Alberta (PCA) has appointed Dr. Kim Hogarth as Alberta’s inaugural Chief Nursing Officer (CNO). This groundbreaking role marks a significant step in the province’s primary care landscape, making Dr. Hogarth one of the first individuals in Canada to hold such a position focused specifically on primary care, according to a release from Alberta Health Services (AHS).

In a statement, PCA CEO Kim Simmonds emphasized the importance of collaborative leadership in healthcare, stating, “Primary care works best when every member of the team contributes their expertise, including at the leadership table.” With Dr. Hogarth assuming the CNO role, PCA aims to ensure that nurses remain integral to crucial decisions that enhance access to primary care services.

Nurses constitute nearly half of PCA’s workforce, acting as a vital link between patients, their families, and the broader healthcare system. Dr. Hogarth expressed her commitment to nursing, saying, “Throughout my career, making sure nurses can deliver the best care possible has always mattered most. It’s an honour to represent nursing voices and help improve care for Albertans.”

Dr. Hogarth’s Background and Expertise

Dr. Hogarth brings a wealth of experience to her new position, with a clinical background that spans rural emergency care, labour and delivery, and acute care settings. Her previous roles include serving as program director in provincial medical affairs at Alberta Health Services, as well as over a decade in post-secondary education. She has held senior academic positions at both Red Deer Polytechnic and Bow Valley College, focusing on health science faculties.

Her academic credentials are notable; Dr. Hogarth holds a master’s degree in nursing as a nurse practitioner and a doctorate in nursing practice. Additionally, as a member of the Métis Nation of Alberta, she is dedicated to enhancing Indigenous health and fostering strong partnerships with Indigenous communities.

Dr. Hogarth’s appointment is not only a milestone for nursing in Alberta but also reflects a broader trend in healthcare leadership that recognizes the critical role nurses play in delivering effective patient care. PCA’s decision to elevate the nursing profession through this leadership role underscores a commitment to improving health outcomes for all Albertans.

In summary, Dr. Kim Hogarth’s appointment as Alberta’s first Chief Nursing Officer signals a significant advancement in the integration of nursing leadership within primary care, with the potential to enhance healthcare delivery throughout the province. Her extensive background and dedication to both nursing and Indigenous communities position her well to lead efforts that prioritize patient care and accessibility.