Algoma Public Health Chief Executive Officer Tony Hanlon talks about the ‘Patients First’ paper from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care after Wednesday’s APH Board meeting.

The Algoma Public Health Board of Directors talked about a provincial paper at their meeting last night. The ‘Patients First’ discussion paper from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care is aimed at strengthening patient-centered care in Ontario. Algoma Public Health CEO Tony Hanlon says the paper will not necessairily change any programs or services offered by APH…

Talks are in the early stages between Algoma Public Health and the municipalities regarding ‘Patients First’. Questions were raised by at least two board members about who will handle budgets and the delivery of services. Hanlon answered the board of health is reassuring that it will still manage services in area communities. ‘Patients First’ is a discussion paper aimed at strengthening health care through integration of services and better access to primary care. Other goals are more consistent and accessible home and community care and stronger links to population and public health. Hanlon answered questions about who will handle budgets and who will be responsible for the delivery of services — issues that may draw some concern particularly for municipalities with aging populations…

Hanlon adds the province’s new funding model that favours population density will be a disadvantage to the north because its population is spread out, making the delivery of services more difficult. He says the local association of public health units have passed resolutions asking that the provincial government re-examine that funding model. Hanlon says he is hoping to see results in the short term where services can be sustained…

The Northeast Local Health Integration Network are putting on an event on the ‘Patients First’ discussion paper. Health Service Providers and the public are invited to learn more and provide their input at the event on February 11th at the Water Tower Inn.