Magnus Gisslén, former state epidemiologist, has publicly criticized the Swedish Public Health Agency for lacking medical expertise in its leadership. His bold stance is praised by Agnes Wold, a fellow medical professional, who shares concerns about the agency's ability to handle future pandemics.
Agnes Wold Applauds Magnus Gisslén's Bold Critique of Public Health Agency
Agnes Wold Applauds Magnus Gisslén's Bold Critique of Public Health Agency
State epidemiologist Magnus Gisslén delivered scathing criticism against his own agency on Monday, a move applauded by Agnes Wold.
"I am proud that he dares. It's about our lives, our health, and our tax money," she says.
In September 2023, Magnus Gisslén assumed the role of state epidemiologist at the Public Health Agency. As he departs, he leaves with harsh criticism of its leadership, expressed in a debate article in DN and via video clips on LinkedIn.
"Today, there is not a single doctor or person with deeper medical expertise in the agency's management group," writes Magnus Gisslén in DN. He notes this is a departure from previous leaderships, where directors-general were doctors.
Additionally, Magnus Gisslén claims there is "power play" within the agency. Overall, he expresses concern about its ability to handle a future pandemic.
"I am proud that he dares"
Magnus Gisslén's public criticism is praised by Agnes Wold, a doctor and professor of clinical bacteriology at the University of Gothenburg.
"I am very proud that he dares to be critical and does not back down. He has always been very knowledgeable," says Agnes Wold.
Since Magnus Gisslén is also a professor at the University of Gothenburg and a senior physician at Sahlgrenska Hospital, Agnes Wold describes him as a colleague.
What do you think about the concern over the medical expertise in the agency's leadership?
"I was aware of these problems to some extent, but I didn't think it was this bad. That the state epidemiologist is no longer in the leadership is completely absurd," she continues.
"These are people who have dedicated their entire lives to these issues, yet their knowledge is not utilized."
Tegnell: "No Comments"
When Expressen reached Anders Tegnell, who was the state epidemiologist from 2013 to 2022, he declined to comment on Magnus Gisslén's criticism.
"I left that role a few years ago and have no comments," says Anders Tegnell.
Expressen has also sought the former director-general of the Public Health Agency, Johan Carlson, without success. However, he has commented on the criticism to Göteborgs-Posten.
"I believe that in all situations, one should be very open, even when there are conflicts. There is no reason to try to sweep anything under the rug," Johan Carlson tells GP.
Magnus Gisslén has stated on LinkedIn that he will publish additional video clips about his views on the Public Health Agency in the coming days.