(CNS): The Ministry of Health has appointed a young Caymanian to work alongside National Epidemiologist Rachel Corbett as her deputy. In the newly created post, Halle Miller will help strengthen disease surveillance and epidemiological reporting, analyse and interpret population health data, and contribute to the continued development of national surveillance systems.
“The newly created position highlights the importance of developing deputy roles through which Caymanians can work alongside experienced specialists, deepen their knowledge and take on greater responsibility,” the ministry said in a release.
Miller will also provide technical and policy advice to the ministry, Public Health, the Health Services Authority (HSA) and other stakeholders.
According to the release, the deputy national epidemiologist position expands the ministry’s capacity to monitor population health trends and use evidence to inform public health action. Epidemiology examines patterns of disease and other health conditions within populations, helping authorities identify changing needs and guide prevention, policy and planning.
“The establishment of the deputy national epidemiologist role is an important step in reinforcing our epidemiological capacity,” Corbett said. “Good public health decision-making depends on our ability to identify trends, understand what is driving changes in population health and translate that evidence into timely action.
“Halle already brings valuable experience of our local public health context, as well as strong analytical and research skills. Having additional epidemiological capacity will allow us to strengthen surveillance and analysis across both communicable and non-communicable diseases, while continuing to improve how we use data to inform prevention, policy and planning.”
Miller holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from the University of Miami, and a Master’s in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. She began her public health career as an intern with the health ministry before joining the chief medical officer’s team as a policy support officer.
The ministry said her progression from intern to deputy national epidemiologist illustrates how practical experience and professional support can help develop Caymanians’ expertise within the health system.
Chief Officer Tamara Ebanks said her appointment reflected an investment in Cayman’s public health capability and the development of Caymanian professionals.
“Creating deputy positions gives Caymanians a route to develop the specialist experience needed for senior roles,” Ebanks said. “Working alongside experienced professionals allows them to build their expertise and take on greater responsibility while contributing to the health system. Halle’s progression demonstrates why these opportunities matter.”
Health Minister Katherine Ebanks-Wilks congratulated Miller on her achievement. “This important position reflects the steps we are taking to drive stronger data-informed policy and programmes for delivering healthcare in the Cayman Islands,” she added.
“Epidemiology helps us understand the health of our population, identify where needs are changing and turn evidence into action. I look forward to helping strengthen Cayman’s capacity to use that evidence to inform public health decisions,” Miller said.