The Iowa Department of Public Health has started its search for a new state medical director after Doctor Caitlin Pedati resigned in late October.  Interim public health department director Kelly Garcia told the state board of health that she’s making some changes to the job. Pedati served as both the state medical director and the lead epidemiologist. Garcia says she got input from state and federal officials and decided those duties will now be separated into two positions.

Garcia says the new state medical director will be the head of public health after the department merges with the Department of Human Services. The opening for a lead epidemiologist hasn’t been posted yet as the coronavirus pandemic continues.