Catherine Kells

Dr. Catherine Kells is a Professor in the Department of Medicine at Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine, where she serves in the Division of Cardiology. She is an accomplished clinician, educator, researcher, and administrator with over three decades of service since joining in 1990. Dr. Kells holds leadership roles in national cardiovascular organizations, notably serving as President Elect of the Canadian Cardiovascular Society.

Her research interests are focused on improving diagnosis, treatment, and management of heart disease, with particular expertise in cardiac transplantation, myocardial ischemia, STEMI, and congenital heart disease. She is deeply involved in clinical research, quality improvement, and medical education, contributing to national guidelines and policy.

Dr. Kells’ recent publications center on adult congenital heart disease care quality, interventional cardiology training standards, tele-education in cardiology, and healthcare workforce challenges. Her work reflects a strong commitment to clinical excellence, education innovation, and health systems improvement.

• Gold Quality Award for “Changing to Meet Patient Needs”, Heart Health/Critical Care/Medicine, Capital District Health Authority (May 2013)
• Recognition of Outstanding Leadership, Division of Cardiology (1996 – 2005)
• Outstanding Contributions to Education, Department of Medicine (2003)

Dr. Kells has served as principal or co-investigator on multiple clinical trials and research initiatives. She has contributed to national education and training frameworks, advised medical technology firms, and played key roles in professional governance through the Royal College, American College of Cardiology, and Canadian Cardiovascular Society. She has trained numerous learners and advanced cardiology education through innovative delivery methods like videoconferencing.

She is actively engaged in the Division of Cardiology at the QEII Health Sciences Centre in Halifax, contributing to patient care, research, and academic leadership. Her work is integrated across clinical, educational, and administrative domains, supporting both individual patient outcomes and systemic improvements in cardiovascular care.