Dr. Joana Maciel is, without a doubt, one of the most sought-after names in pediatric medicine—whether for her competence as a physician or her conduct as a natural-born leader.

With an extensive résumé, she served as the Health Secretary of Fortaleza, skillfully leading the city’s healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic. She holds a medical degree from the Federal University of Ceará; a specialization in Hospital and Network Organization Management from the same institution; a specialization in Emergency Management within Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS) from the Sírio-Libanês Institute of Education and Research; and a Master’s degree in Child and Adolescent Health from the State University of Ceará, among other qualifications.

With broad experience in both clinical care and healthcare management, she is a national reference in the integration of pediatric care and public health policy.