With nearly three decades of experience advancing healthcare through technology, innovation, and leadership, Ron Johnson has dedicated his career to improving patient care and strengthening healthcare systems. From his early days in biomedical engineering to leading organizations through complex transformation, his focus has remained the same: finding better ways to support clinicians, patients, and the future of healthcare. 

As one of HealthPRO Canada's newest Board Members, Ron brings that experience and perspective to the organization. In the Q&A below, he reflects on the experiences that shaped his career, what excites him about HealthPRO Canada's mission, and why collaboration and innovation will be essential to the future of healthcare procurement. 

1. What drew you to a career in healthcare? 

I've always been interested in technology, and Biomedical Engineering was the perfect fit for me because it combined innovation with the opportunity to help people. What started as a passion for medical technology evolved into a broader passion for improving healthcare systems and supporting the people who deliver care. Looking back, it's been incredibly rewarding to see how technology, when thoughtfully implemented, can improve patient care and the experiences for both patients and healthcare professionals.  

2. In your view, what does the future of healthcare procurement look like?  

Healthcare procurement is becoming increasingly strategic. It's no longer just about acquiring products and services, it's about building resilient supply chains, leveraging data to inform decisions, fostering innovation, and ensuring sustainability. As healthcare continues to evolve, procurement will play a critical role in improving value, supporting clinicians, and ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.  

3. What makes the mission of HealthPRO Canada meaningful to you?  

HealthPRO Canada’s mission is meaningful to me because it demonstrates the power of collaboration to strengthen healthcare across the country. By bringing organizations together, HealthPRO Canada helps create greater value, improve supply chain resilience, and support the adoption of innovative products, technologies, and approaches. I am particularly inspired by its role in helping healthcare organizations explore and advance innovation in ways that support clinicians, improve patient care, and contribute to a more sustainable healthcare system.  

4. With an accomplished and impressive career, what are you most looking forward to in this next chapter?   

I'm looking forward to contributing from a different perspective. Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to lead organizations through change and transformation. Serving on the Board provides an opportunity to share those experiences, learn from accomplished colleagues across the country, and help shape the future of healthcare on a broader scale. 

5. What are your personal interests outside of work?   

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, whether it's going for a run, exploring hiking trails, or working in the garden. I find that being active and connecting with nature is a great way to recharge and gain perspective. I also value spending time with family and friends, and I enjoy opportunities to travel and experience new places and cultures. 

6. Favourite quote or motto? 

One of my favourite lines comes from a Newfoundland song: 

"Ten turrs in the freezer is better than a hundred in the bay." 

I've always appreciated the wisdom behind it. To me, it's a reminder to value what you have over what you might get.  

7. You've spent nearly three decades leading healthcare transformation, from frontline care to executive leadership. How has your perspective on innovation evolved throughout your career? 

Early in my career, I tended to think of innovation primarily as new technology or new models of care. Over time, I've come to appreciate that the most meaningful innovation is often about people, creating cultures where curiosity is encouraged, collaboration is valued, and teams feel empowered to challenge the status quo.  

Technology is an important enabler, but lasting transformation happens when we bring people together around a shared purpose and remain focused on improving the experience and outcomes for patients and communities.