Experienced health sector leader Professor Anne Duggan has been appointed new CEO of the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care.

Professor Duggan, a respected gastroenterologist and chair of the Medicare Benefits Schedule Review Advisory Committee, has more than 30 years experience in the health sector and has been the commission’s chief medical officer since 2021.

She takes up the new role on March 27, replacing Professor Debora Picone, who retired last September.

Commission board chair Professor Villis Marshall said Professor Duggan’s experience as a practicing clinician, policy maker and health sector leader would ensure the commission continued to lead improvements underpinning the saftety of the national healthcare system.

“Professor Duggan brings to the role a deep understanding of the complex issues surrounding safety and quality in Australian health care, including the importance of partnering with consumers and improving the value and sustainability of our health system,” he said in a statement.

“As a respected, committed and progressive health leader, Professor Duggan is ideal to lead the Commission in its next phase.”

Professor Duggan said she excited to see the evolution of the healthcare system in the digital age.

“I will work for a seamless transition and ensure the Commission continues to collaborate with individuals and organisations across healthcare disciplines and jurisdictions, to respond to changes in the sector and to achieve better healthcare for all Australians,” she said.

The Commission, established  by COAG in 2006, it has been an independent statutory authority since 2011 and is funded jointly by federal and state and territory governments.

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