Michelle Murti Named Toronto Health Officer

Toronto is set to welcome a new face in its public health leadership as Michelle Murti Toronto has been appointed the city’s new medical officer of health. Her official start date is scheduled for September 3, pending final approval from Ontario’s Ministry of Health. City council has already given its endorsement, marking an important new chapter in the city’s public health strategy.

**Photo via UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO/HO** – Dr. Michelle Murti, who was named Toronto’s new Medical Officer of Health on July 23, 2025.

Leadership Transition: Michelle Murti Toronto Takes the Helm

Background and Experience

Dr. Michelle Murti brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Currently serving as Ontario’s associate chief medical officer of health, she has played a central role in various statewide public health efforts. Furthermore, her expertise includes pandemic preparedness, emergency response coordination, and contributing to health system improvements across the province.

Medical credentials: Doctor of Medicine and Master’s in Public Health
Certifications: Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in Public Health and Preventive Medicine
Additional qualifications: Licensed family physician
Academic role: Adjunct professor at University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health
Full CBC report: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/michelle-murti-toronto-medical-officer-of-health-1.7592502?cmp=rss

New Vision for Public Health in Toronto

Elderly man wearing a mask walking a bicycle on a sunny day in a town square. — *Image by Artem Yellow / Pexels*

The city has expressed confidence in Dr. Murti’s ability to lead Toronto Public Health (TPH) through future challenges. Additionally, under her leadership, TPH aims to enhance its innovation, resilience, and long-standing impact as one of Canada’s prominent local health agencies. Dr. Murti emphasizes collaboration as crucial to success.

Start date: September 3, 2025 (subject to provincial approval)
Current acting officer: Dr. Na-Koshie Lamptey (until September 2)
Leadership goals: Reduce health inequities, foster community partnerships, and promote a healthier Toronto

Endorsements and Support

A view of Toronto's skyline — *Image from CBC*

City officials, including Mayor Olivia Chow, have voiced strong support for the appointment. Chow highlighted Dr. Murti’s qualifications and said she is well-equipped to support Toronto’s diverse population. Moreover, Murti herself shared her appreciation and readiness to serve, noting the importance of working closely with both Toronto Public Health staff and community partners.

Dr. Murti’s appointment comes at a pivotal time when public health is at the forefront of city policy. Accordingly, as she takes the helm, residents and city stakeholders alike are hopeful for a continuance of forward-thinking health initiatives.

Her extensive educational background, combined with on-the-ground health leadership experience, signals a strong future for the city’s health programs under her stewardship. Without a doubt, Michelle Murti Toronto’s leadership marks a new era for TPH.

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Dr. Michelle Murti to Become Toronto’s New Medical Officer of Health