The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced this (Wednesday) morning that current State Medical Director and Epidemiologist, Dr. Caitlin Pedati, will be stepping down in late October. She has served in this role since June of 2018 and worked as medical epidemiologist for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services prior to joining the IDPH. The press release issued by the department says only that she is leaving to pursue new career opportunities. “I want to thank Dr. Pedati for her outstanding service to the people of Iowa, especially through the pandemic,” says Gov. Kim Reynolds. “She has been instrumental in our state’s strong COVID-19 response and a valued member of my team. I wish her much success and happiness in all that she pursues.” IDPH interim Director, Kelly Garcia, says their work over the past 18 months has been difficult at best. “I remain immensely appreciative of Dr. Pedati’s steadfast partnership throughout,” she says. “I, along with our teams at IDPH and the Department of Human Services, will miss her. Her personal sacrifice is to be commended and we wish her the very best as she begins this new chapter.” The IDPH says they will work quickly to fill the position.
