Celebrating a Healthcare Milestone: Goderich Welcomes Nine New Physicians to the Community
- Alexa Hugill
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
At a time when rural communities across Ontario are facing unprecedented physician and nursing shortages, Goderich has something truly worth celebrating. On December 4, hospital leaders, local officials, and community members gathered to recognize nine physicians who have joined the healthcare teams at Maitland Valley Medical Centre (MVMC) and Alexandra Marine and General Hospital (AMGH) with five of them joining within the last year.
The atmosphere was one of gratitude, optimism, and community pride as Goderich officially welcomed the talented group of physicians who have chosen to build their careers and lives in the area.
“This is an exciting moment for our hospital and for the entire community,” said Jimmy Trieu, President & CEO of Huron Health System. “Welcoming these physicians strengthens our hospital, supports our teams, and enhances the care we provide to the patients and families we serve.”
Mayor Trevor Bazinet shared similar enthusiasm, highlighting the importance of the new arrivals at a time when so many communities are struggling to fill physician vacancies. “These talented physicians bring a tremendous amount of skill, compassion, and commitment to patient care,” he said. “Their presence strengthens our healthcare system and supports the well-being of families throughout Goderich and the surrounding region.”
The arrival of nine new physicians represents more than individual career choices—it reflects a strong, ongoing collaboration between the Town of Goderich, AMGH, Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (CERH), local healthcare teams, and regional recruitment initiatives.
Gwen Devereaux, President of Gateway CERH, echoed this message, noting, “Gateway CERH is so excited to welcome the new doctors and looks forward to working with them in supporting our research to keep our rural residents healthy.”
Each physician brings a unique background, skill set, and passion for rural care:
Dr. Matthew Gray – Family Physician
Joined AMGH in 2025 from Burlington. Dr. Gray studied at Queen’s University and Western Michigan University; completed residency through Western University with a focus on rural and hospitalist medicine. “My wife and I chose to move to Goderich because we loved the town… I have always found the staff, nurses, and fellow physicians to be welcoming and supportive.”
Dr. Grant Dawson – Family Physician
Born and raised in Goderich; trained at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. Dr, Dawson returned to join the Emergency Department and his father, Dr. Michael Dawson, in family practice.
Dr. Mohmeet Singh Brar – Family & Emergency Physician
Joined AMGH in 2025. Former Chief Resident at Western University and the recipient of multiple leadership awards. Dr. Brar brings a strong commitment to patient-centered, compassionate care.
Dr. Jacinta Peel – Family Physician
Joined MVMC during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Peel was recognized for her outstanding care and dedication during an especially challenging time.
Dr. Brian Holowachuk – Family Practitioner
Moved to the area in 2024 and quickly became an essential part of the Emergency Department team.
Dr. Jennifer Ford – General Surgeon
Joined AMGH in 2023 from Washington State. Her addition expanded surgical capacity to meet growing regional needs.
Dr. Peter Dixon – Psychiatrist
Joined the AMGH mental health team in 2024 after medical training in Australia. Now offering vital mental health support to the community.
Dr. Anne Rose – Community Psychiatrist (Addictions Specialist)
Brings specialized expertise to support mental health and addiction services across Huron County.
Dr. Michele Doering – Geriatric Psychiatrist
Joined AMGH full-time in September 2025 after several years of locum work. Has long envisioned Goderich as the ideal place to build her practice and, one day, retire.
This celebration marks more than the arrival of nine new physicians; it represents hope, stability, and the promise of stronger healthcare for years to come.
As Goderich continues to grow and adapt to the evolving needs of its residents, these new physicians will play a crucial role in ensuring accessible, high-quality care for families throughout the region.
Gateway CERH extends a warm welcome to each new physician and looks forward to the meaningful contributions they will make in serving the community.
About Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health
Founded in 2008 in the community of Seaforth, ON, Gateway CERH is a not-for-profit rural health research organization run by a community-based volunteer board of directors. Gateway CERH's main mission is to better the health and quality of life of rural residents through research, education and communication. Learn more on the Gateway CERH website at: https://www.gatewayruralhealth.ca/ and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, LinkedIn and YouTube.
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