2018 NHRC Keynote Speaker

Dr. Catherine L. Cook

Dr. Catherine Cook is an Indigenous (Métis) woman and grew up in Manitoba’s northern Interlake. She received her undergraduate and postgraduate medical education at the University of Manitoba (1987,1989, 2003). Dr. Cook practiced as a family physician in remote northern nursing stations for several years before focusing on public health practice, and  more recently health administration and management.

Dr. Cook plays an important role in shaping the nature and scope of Indigenous health care and research in Manitoba. She has a joint role with the University of Manitoba as the Vice Dean, Indigenous Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences and head of Ongomiizwin – Indigenous Institute of Health and Healing and as the provincial lead, Indigenous Health, Shared health. Shared Health is a new provincial health organization that envisions a province-wide health system that is integrated, coordinated and able to make and sustain significant improvements – reduced wait times, increased access to health services and consistent and reliable standards of care – for all Manitobans. Prior to joining Shared Health, she served as the Vice-President of Population and Indigenous Health with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.

Dr. Cook has held numerous positions in health and academic administration. She has been actively involved in teaching, research and mentorship of undergraduate and postgraduate students. Dr. Cook throughout her career has participated and continues to serve on several national boards and committees.