New interim provincial head for pediatrics
SASKATOON - Highly regarded physician and medical educator Dr. Ron Siemens, MD, FRCPC, FAAP, has been selected as the interim provincial head of pediatrics beginning June 3, 2019 for a one-year term.
Siemens is presently serving as a pediatric emergency physician in Saskatoon, and an assistant professor in the College of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan. He is also the Chair of the Clinical Decision Making Committee of the Medical Council of Canada licensing exam part one.
“I honour the past leadership that has brought us this far,” said Siemens, “and I look forward in this role to supporting each member of the department in reaching their career goals. Together, we will deliver state-of-the-art, family-centred care for the children of Saskatchewan, well supported with the opening of the new Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital this fall.”
”We’re very pleased to have a member of the Saskatchewan pediatric team of Ron’s calibre and experience stepping into this important role,” said Preston Smith, dean of the College of Medicine. “With his leadership we can move forward together, honouring the past and planning for the future and the exciting times in pediatrics here immediately ahead.”
“Dr. Siemens has a wealth of experience in pediatrics, and we are pleased to have his expertise help guide the department during this important time for children’s health in our province,” said Dr. Susan Shaw, Chief Medical Officer for the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
Siemens is recognized for his strengths in developing relationships, collaboration and has led numerous projects dedicated to improving health worldwide, particularly in the area of social accountability in medicine.
This personnel change within the department of pediatrics does not affect planning or preparations for the opening of the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital which is scheduled for this fall. This important work continues by the hundreds of staff and physicians who have been involved in creating and planning for the new maternal and children’s hospital.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority and College of Medicine thank Dr. Givelichian for his work as provincial head for pediatrics, including his work on the hospital and his on-going contribution to the clinical work underway to strengthen pediatric services. Dr. Givelichian continues to work in the department as a pediatric neonatologist providing care for patients, and with a faculty appointment at the College of Medicine.
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To arrange an interview, please contact:
Jennifer Thoma
Media Relations
University of Saskatchewan
306-966-1851
jennifer.thoma@usask.ca