“Son of the soil” appointed UNC Health Wayne’s new CMO

The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability would like to acknowledge and congratulate Dr. Joel Rose, a distinguished Caymanian surgeon and healthcare leader, on his recent appointment as Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and Vice President, Medical Affairs of UNC Health Wayne in Goldsboro, North Carolina.

Dr. Rose’s appointment to the hospital’s executive leadership team represents a significant professional milestone, showcasing his decades-long commitment to clinical excellence. A native of Bodden Town, Dr. Rose was raised by his parents Pastors Winston and Hyacinth Rose, who instilled in him the values of faith and healthcare. His achievements abroad serve as a source of pride for the Cayman Islands, exemplifying the capabilities of Caymanians both locally and internationally.

Hon. Katherine Ebanks-Wilks proudly welcomed the announcement: “Dr. Joel Rose’s appointment as Chief Medical Officer is a source of great national pride. His journey from the Cayman Islands to the executive leadership of a major U.S. healthcare institution, speaks to his exceptional skill and dedication to service. Just like our forefathers who left our shores to build a future for their families, Dr. Rose is another powerful example of how Caymanian values and work ethic translate into global leadership.”

Minister Ebanks-Wilks emphasised the inspiring nature of Dr. Rose’s appointment, stating: “Although Dr. Rose is currently residing abroad, his success will motivate many Caymanians pursuing careers in medicine. This achievement inspires me, as Minister to advocate for clear educational and training pathways in the medical field, ensuring that Caymanians can thrive locally.”

The youngest of three siblings, Dr. Rose graduated from Triple C School, before attending the Armand Hammer United World College in New Mexico. He earned his undergraduate degree at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia and during his time at the University of Connecticut medical school, he cultivated the values of compassion, excellence, leadership, dedication, and faith, instilled by his parents and mentors.

Before his role at UNC Health Wayne, Dr. Rose practiced and held senior leadership positions at UNC Health Lenoir in Kinston, North Carolina. His experience includes executive medical leadership, oversight of bariatric services, medical staff governance, and service on the hospital’s Board, alongside regional responsibilities within the UNC Health’s Medical Group.

Board-certified in general and bariatric surgery, Dr. Rose is a Fellow of both the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. In his new capacity as Chief Medical Officer, he will provide strategic and clinical leadership, focusing on medical quality, patient safety, and physician engagement throughout the hospital.

Ms. Tamara Ebanks, Chief Officer in the Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability, highlighted the wider significance of the appointment: “Dr. Rose’s elevation to Chief Medical Officer is not just a personal achievement but also an inspiring moment for the Cayman Islands. His leadership in complex healthcare systems abroad reinforces the caliber of talent nurtured here at home and offers encouragement to young Caymanians aspiring to careers in medicine and health leadership.”

The Ministry extends its sincere congratulations to Dr. Joel Rose on this prestigious appointment and wishes him continued success as he serves communities abroad, embodying the very essence of Caymanian excellence.