Peel Region’s new ‘top doctor’ inherits heavy workload in Mississauga, Brampton, Caledon

Peel Region has appointed Dr. Alexa Caturay as its new Medical Officer of Health, stepping into a senior public health role at a time of growing demand, operational strain and ongoing post-pandemic pressures across Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon.

Dr. Caturay began her role this week, overseeing Peel Public Health programs and working with health system partners across the region’s Health Services portfolio.

The Medical Officer of Health is often referred to as the region’s “top doctor,” responsible for leading public health strategy, managing disease outbreaks, overseeing inspection and immunization systems, and guiding population health policy decisions that affect residents across all three municipalities.

The role came into sharp public focus during the COVID-19 pandemic, when then-chief medical officer Dr. Lawrence Loh became a familiar public figure through regular updates, public health directives and briefings that shaped daily life across Peel.

Dr. Alexa Caturay

Peel Region says Dr. Caturay brings extensive senior public health experience from roles in Hastings Prince Edward, Windsor-Essex and Toronto Public Health. Her background includes work on health and homelessness, infection prevention in congregate settings, and multi-agency partnerships involving hospitals, primary care providers and community organizations.

“Dr. Caturay’s unique experience, insights, and track record of collaboration adds renewed commitment to promoting health equity,” said Nancy Polisinelli, Commissioner of Health Services for Peel Region.

Her appointment comes as Peel Public Health’s latest annual review outlines significant system pressures despite high levels of service delivery.

In 2025, public health teams monitored more than 17,000 reportable disease cases, administered over 80,000 vaccines, completed nearly 20,000 inspections and distributed more than 13,000 naloxone kits. More than 75,000 children were also screened for dental concerns.

At the same time, the report highlights growing strain on the system, including longer wait times for infant feeding support, increased demand for seniors’ dental services, rising inspection workloads and more complex communicable disease investigations.

Officials also noted a resurgence in vaccine-preventable diseases, along with frequent outbreak responses that pulled staff away from planned programs and into urgent response work.

Looking ahead to 2026, Peel Public Health says its priorities include maintaining core services, strengthening emergency preparedness and adapting to evolving provincial standards and population growth.

Dr. Caturay said she is looking forward to working with staff and community partners to strengthen the region’s public health system.

“There is important work ahead, and I’m eager to help ensure Peel remains a place where strong public health systems support our community,” she said.

The Medical Officer of Health role is expected to remain central in shaping how Peel responds to outbreaks, health system pressures and long-term population health challenges across Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon.