The Frederick County Health Department (FCHD) announced the upcoming retirements of Dr. Barbara Brookmyer and Dr. Randy Culpepper, both of whom will step down from their positions on January 1, 2027. Dr. Brookmyer has served as the county’s Health Officer for 23 years, while Dr. Culpepper has held the role of Deputy Health Officer and Medical Officer for 11 years.
County Executive Jessica Fitzwater expressed gratitude for Dr. Brookmyer’s extensive service, highlighting her dedication to public health and her leadership in advancing a Health in All Policies approach. This initiative emphasizes the interconnectedness of health with various aspects of community life. Under Dr. Brookmyer’s guidance, FCHD achieved national accreditation in December 2014, becoming one of only 60 health departments in the country to do so at that time. The department has since maintained this standard, demonstrating a commitment to quality public health services.
Dr. Brookmyer’s tenure has not been without challenges, including navigating budget cuts in public health funding and managing responses to infectious disease outbreaks, including COVID-19. She has also focused on health equity and risk reduction, striving to address structural barriers that affect community health.
Dr. Culpepper has played a significant role in various programs, including Medicaid enrollment and public health preparedness. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he served as Incident Commander, ensuring local healthcare providers received timely information. Additionally, he has provided direct care to community members with active tuberculosis.
Looking ahead, Dr. Meena Brewster will join FCHD as the new Deputy Health Officer on December 9, 2026. Currently serving as the Health Officer in St. Mary’s County, Dr. Brewster brings 14 years of experience to her new role. The FCHD continues to focus on the health and well-being of Frederick County residents as it transitions to new leadership.
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Read the original article at Frederick County Government