Local health merger promises better services for the region

Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health and CEO for the South East Health Unit

Top Doc says to expect some growing pains in the early days

A major health merger has brought three regional health units together under the new South East Health Unit, promising improved services for communities across the region.

Dr. Piotr Oglaza, the newly appointed Medical Officer of Health (MOH) and CEO, says this change will create a stronger and more efficient public health system.

For now, there will be no changes to how people contact their local public health offices. Current phone numbers, emails, and other contact information will remain the same, ensuring uninterrupted access to services. 

He went on to highlight the merger’s goal of increasing capacity for services and operate seamlessly across regions.

Dr. Oglaza, who served has MOH for KFL&A since late 2021 and was MOH with HPE for the three years before that, is looking forward to this greater responsability. He says he has a very strong team behind him made up of the two deputy MOH, Dr. Ethan Toumishey (HPE) and Dr. Linna Li (LGL), and associate MOH, Dr. Hugh Guan.

The public is asked to be patient, noting that while the integration process will take time, it will ultimately result in a larger, more connected public health system that still prioritizes local needs.

The community can expect updates as the merger unfolds.

Story by Emily Chatwood

Weather

  • Kingston Weather

    Low-level cloud

    High: 1°C | Low: 0°C