the first Dental Officer in the history of the CFHS to be entrusted with this responsibility. In this role, BGen Picard’s responsibilities encompass overseeing the overall clinical health programs and policies of the CFHS. Providing health care services to the CAF is a complex undertaking and in his current position, BGen Picard provides guidance, direction, work prioritization and oversight for all clinical directorates responsible for the development and management of Health Programs that direct health care provision within the CAF. These include Mental Health, Medical Policy, Force Health Protection, Women’s and Diversity Health and Dental Services. He also oversees the Professional Affairs for all clinical occupations in the CFHS and the Health Research portfolio. As a Senior Leader of the CFHS, he participates in all aspects of Health Services, integrated governance framework, fostering an efficient and effective decision-making process within Health Services. Building Bridges For many years, as Chief Dental Officer and head of the RCDC, BGen Picard played a crucial role ensuring that the Dental Corps was delivering quality and operationally focused dental care to its CAF members. “RCDC is home to several military occupations,” says BGen Picard. “We have a complement of military dentists, dental hygienists, and dental technicians, providing in-garrison care in our dental clinics at military bases across Canada and in Europe with military dental specialists offering care in select dental clinics. Our team is also composed of highly professional civilian employes and contractors,” adds BGen Picard. The RCDC also provides support to CAF members that are deployed abroad, contributing to the national interest and international security in that matter. “They all provide an essential role in enabling CAF operations and broader Government of Canada objectives,” he says. Today, the RCDC representation is woven into all levels of governance, and it promotes a unified medical and dental approach within the health services. “Some years ago, we went through a governance review of the entire Canadian Forces Health Services, including the medical and dental branches, and we’ve taken substantial steps to modernize our health care system,” he explains. “These actions served as catalyst to fostering synergy and harmonization between the two vibrant branches as one strong Health Services team.” As a dentist, BGen Picard gave himself one overarching mandate for the CAF health care systems and organized dentistry: put the mouth back into the body. Working more closely with medical colleagues allowed his team to develop stronger bonds and be a key part of the fabric of Canadian military health care. “These bridges are crucial for the betterment of overall health of CAF members and Canadians alike,” he says. “The launch of the Canadian Dental Care Plan by the federal government also sends a clear message that oral health is integral to overall health. I am delighted by this historic investment, which will provide access to comprehensive oral health care and significantly alleviate financial barriers for millions of Canadians.” A Sense of Purpose Dr. Picard’s promotion to the rank of Brigadier General also marks a significant milestone. It demonstrates the CAF’s commitment to modernize CFHS and ensures that the right structure is in place to care for the CAF members and to be prepared toaddress all challenges that lay ahead. “This evolution not only marks an important progression for the organization, but it also sends a message of optimism and hope for Health Services and the future of the RCDC,” he says. I’ve been extremely fortunate. I’ve been surroundedby great rolemodels that believed in me and guided me. They offered me opportunities in clinical and military leadership roles. (L. to r.) Colonel Commandant of the Royal Canadian Dental Corps, Brigadier-General (retired) Victor Lanctis, with BGen Picard on his promotion day. 26 | 2024 | Issue 2 Issues and People
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