Hastings Prince Edward Public Health, Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington Public Health, and Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit have all voted unanimously to merge into the South East Health Unit.
The new organization will officially launch on January 1, 2025, covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres and improve services for over 550,000 residents in the region. The Ministry of Health has committed funding for the first three years of the transition.
Dr. Piotr Oglaza will lead the new agency as Medical Officer of Health and CEO, supported by deputy medical officers Dr. Ethan Toumishey and Dr. Linna Li, as well as Associate MOH Dr. Hugh Guan.
Officials say the merger will strengthen public health programs, enhance local services, and ensure regional leadership. Until the merger is complete, residents are advised to continue accessing their current health unit services.
