Magnus Gisslén resigns as Sweden's state epidemiologist, criticizing the Public Health Agency for lacking medical expertise in its leadership. He expresses concerns over the agency's ability to handle future pandemics and plans to highlight its shortcomings. Erik Sturegård will temporarily assume the role.
Magnus Gisslén Resigns as State Epidemiologist, Criticizes Public Health Agency
Magnus Gisslén Resigns as State Epidemiologist
Magnus Gisslén has resigned as the state epidemiologist at the Public Health Agency of Sweden, simultaneously directing sharp criticism at his employer. "Today, there is not a single doctor or person with deeper medical expertise in the agency's management team," Gisslén writes in DN Debatt.
After two years in the position, Magnus Gisslén has decided to step down as state epidemiologist. In DN Debatt, Gisslén states that he has lost confidence in the Public Health Agency and is concerned about its ability to manage a future pandemic.
"Today, there is not a single doctor or person with deeper medical expertise in the agency's management team. It is remarkable. This concerns the agency responsible for infection control issues in both everyday and crisis situations," Gisslén writes in the opinion piece.
He also argues that weak leadership paves the way for power plays and intrigues.
"When subject knowledge is lacking, the ability to see through hidden agendas and personal positioning is hindered. I have personally been subjected to such power plays, which have complicated my work as a state epidemiologist," Gisslén writes.
"Has Become So Uncomfortable for the Agency"
In a LinkedIn post, he directs similar criticism at the agency regarding his efforts to strengthen its scientific foundation and medical competence.
"But my engagement in this issue has become so uncomfortable for the agency that they no longer want me to continue. I have therefore chosen to resign," Gisslén states in the post.
Starting tomorrow, he plans to highlight deficiencies within the agency and propose improvements in four parts.
Erik Sturegård Takes Over Temporarily
From September 1, Erik Sturegård will step into the role of acting state epidemiologist, the Public Health Agency announces in a press release. He is currently the deputy state epidemiologist, senior physician, and associate professor in clinical microbiology.
"I want to thank Magnus Gisslén for his contributions. We have greatly benefited from his deep expertise and long experience in the field of infections and wish him all the best in his future endeavors," says Ellen Jones, unit manager at the Public Health Agency, in the press release.
Expressen is seeking comments from the Public Health Agency.