Northern Health has a new chief medical officer.
Professor Prahlad Ho, who has worked at Northern Health for over 18 years and in that time he has held many leadership positions including, director of clinical haematology, director of northern pathology, divisional director of diagnostics amongst many others.
Professor Ho recalls having to avoid kangaroos to get into the building as a medical student, noting how much the hospital has changed since then.
“During my time here, I have seen us develop from a small, outer suburban community hospital, into a major hospital,” he said.
“I have had the privilege of serving in every medical position in this hospital, from medical student to consultant, and now I have the honour of serving as CMO.”
“I strongly believe that Northern Health is the best place to work, and a place where we can make a difference. I intend to continue to deliver this, and work together to transform our hospital into a tertiary centre of excellence, which we and our patients can all be proud of.”
The outgoing cheif medical officer, Professor Wanda Stelmach, has worked across both Preston and Northcote Community Hospital (PANCH) and Northern Health for over 30 years and she is now transitioning into retirement.
“My wide portfolio has been challenging and interesting. I have enjoyed the challenges because of the staff, patients, families and communities I interact with. I will miss the breadth of interactions, however, I will continue my work as a divisional director of cancer services and as medical director, north eastern Melbourne integrated cancer service (NEMICS), as well as, continue teaching medical students and co-supporting my RMIT research students,” she said.
