Dr Shirley Bowen has been appointed the new Director-General of Western Australia’s Department of Health – the state’s largest public sector agency.
Currently the Chief Executive of the North Metropolitan Health Service (NMHS), Dr Bowen has a diverse and proven track record in leadership across both public and private health services and will take up the position of Director-General of WA Health next month.
“Dr Bowen will lead WA Health at a really important time of reform for our public health system. Reducing ramping hours and increasing elective surgery will continue to a be a key focus,” said Health Minister, Amber-Jade Sanderson.
“She will oversee multibillion-dollar investment in infrastructure in our public health system, including the new $1.8 billion Women and Babies Hospital at Murdoch.
“I look forward to working with Dr Bowen in leading our health systems to continue to meet the needs of the community.”
Dr Bowen holds dual Fellowships in Infectious Diseases (FRACP) and Sexual Health medicine (FAChSHM) and extensive experience as a clinician – is a respected and dedicated healthcare leader.
Her past appointments include CEO of St John of God (SJOG) Subiaco Hospital, Chief Medical Officer of the Australian Capital Territory, Executive Director of Fremantle Hospital and Dean of the School of Medicine at the University of Notre Dame Australia.
Deputy Director-General Angela Kelly PSM, who is a highly experienced, capable and dedicated leader, will continue acting in the role in the interim.
