OTTAWA, MAY 12, 2026 — Hassan Mir, MD, a cardiologist, scientist and chair of the Ottawa Model for Smoking Cessation at the Ottawa Heart Institute, has been named the 2026 recipient of the Royal College Award for Early-Career Leadership in Health Policy and Health Systems, presented by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
This national award recognizes new Royal College fellows within seven years of completing their training who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and service in advancing health systems, medical education, or patient care.
Dr. Hassan Mir has made significant contributions to health policy development, implementation, and advocacy, particularly in smoking cessation and cardiovascular prevention. Integrating clinical practice, research, and public health, his work has positioned him as a national leader in health system transformation, improving cardiovascular outcomes through scalable, evidence-based approaches embedded in care delivery.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this award,” said Dr. Mir. “This recognition reflects the collective efforts of dedicated colleagues and partners who are committed to improving health systems and supporting patients in making meaningful, lasting changes to their health.”
Dr. Mir will be formally presented with the award at the 2026 Royal College awards ceremony in Ottawa on October 16.
For more information:
- Announcing the Royal College’s 2026 award recipients and Honorary Fellows
- Building systems that help people quit smoking
To coordinate an interview with Dr. Hassan Mir, please contact the liaison below.
Media contact
Leigh B. Morris
Media Relations Officer
University of Ottawa Heart Institute
613-316-6409 (cell)
lmorris@ottawaheart.ca