2016
Department of Health and Community Services

Since the early 2000s, Dr. David Allison has been an important voice in the medical landscape of Newfoundland and Labrador. Beginning as a regional Medical Officer of Health he quickly cultivated an important network of colleagues, training programs and stakeholders. Since his appointment as Chief Medical Officer of Health he has exemplified excellence in public service delivery, leadership, innovation and relationship building.

He is known as a team leader, innovator and mentor. He has focused especially on developing an inter-departmental network for the good of people’s health, working to increase knowledge surrounding the core functions of public health: health promotion, protection, assessment, surveillance of diseases and injury prevention.

For examples of his innovation, one needs look no further than the recent devastating opioid crisis in the province. Dr. Allison was able to identify the looming risks based on national trends. We are now more prepared to monitor and combat this deadly epidemic, taking into account many complex considerations.

As a mentor, Dr. Allison has had Newfoundland and Labrador in clear focus. He has mentored many public health, epidemiology and medical students. He has provided valuable insight into their chosen fields, and clearly woven the integral relationship government has with medical providers. He has worked hard to keep people working in this field across the province, and in the event of a departure he has worked hard to bring qualified people into the fold.

Whether responding to outbreaks, advocating for new vaccines, building a sustainable workforce, or leading the province in public health, Dr. Allison is a valuable asset to government and to the public he serves.