DAN CEARNS, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, for The Standard
KAWARTHA LAKES: The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR) has found their new Medical Officer of Health. On Tuesday, October 20th, the local health unit announced the appointment of Dr. Natalie Bocking to the position. She is expected to take over the role on April 5th, 2021. Dr. Bocking will replace Dr. Lynn Noseworthy, who is set to retire on December 11th. Dr. Ian Gemmill will fill the position as acting officer of health from mid-December until early April. “We are very fortunate to have Dr. Bocking join HKPR.” health unit board chair Doug Elmslie said, in a press release. “She has a wealth of knowledge and experience in providing public health programs and services in rural areas of the province, and has most recently worked with northern First Nations communities to provide public health services.” Dr. Bocking has served as a public health physician with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit and Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority. She and her family are also now residents of Kawartha Lakes, having moved to the municipality last year.