Program Goal
To ensure that local programs address the health needs of the community, with cost-effective, efficient, evidence-based approaches.
Program Description
Programs and services must be based on community health status information. The Northwestern Health Unit liaises with a number of partner agencies to obtain data-sources to access all data relevant for local planning and produces a number of reports to assess the community health status. In addition, an annual report covering key public health issues is produced and disseminated to the community.
Northwestern Health Unit program development and design must be based on evidence of effectiveness and efficiency. Innovative, cost-effective, evidence-based programs and services consistent with the Mandatory Health Program and Services Guidelines are developed and evaluated. Knowledge gained from program development and evaluation is then shared with other health professionals.
Why We Do What We Do
- To ensure all Ontarians have access to public health.
- To ensure that local programs address the needs of the health community, with cost-effective, efficient, evidence-based approaches .
How and What Do We Provide?
- Annual report covering key public health issues.
- Community health status reports.
- Support for development and evaluation of innovative, cost-effective, evidence-based programs and services.
- Research opportunities.
- Working with community partners and municipalities and active participation on regional/provincial committees to improvement health.
What are the Challenges to Service Delivery?
- Large geographic area and winter travel.
- Population diversity and low density.
- Expensive to do business in Northwestern Ontario; shipping supplies, travel, meetings.
- Qualified staff-recruitment and retention.
- Inter-jurisdictional issues - Federal Lands, inter-provincial and inter-regulation.