November, 2011

Message from: Angèle Brunelle, Chair, Board of Directors, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

As the seasons change, the vibrant colours of autumn surround us. This transition reminds me of our amazing progress over the past few years and the journey ahead of us. We continue to adapt to meet the needs and expectations of our patients. By keeping Patient and Family Centred Care as our focus, we will be guided through these transitions. Like the seasons, we transform to make room for new growth. These changes are reflected in recent announcements and events.

The move to a Program Management system of care delivery is timely and exciting. Program Management allows us to design healthcare around the needs of our patients. It enables accountability and transparency. Co-leading with our physicians, patients and families facilitates a proactive focus on our Strategic Directions. Our 2015 plan is achievable through the evolution of programs and services, research, learning and partnerships.

Chronic Disease Prevention and Management is one of our four Strategic Directions. The new proposal for Bariatric Surgery to be performed at the Health Sciences Centre supports this evolution of clinical services that will help our patients live healthier lives.

Recently, we welcomed Chef Michael Smith to our facility. We partnered and opened our doors to the public and region to hear his inspirational talk. He is a leader in promoting local, healthy eating. During his presentation, Chef Michael Smith challenged us to think about how we connect to food, each other and our broader community. Through our connectedness, we will learn and adapt for the betterment of our health.

Fall is a busy season at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. Once again, our halls are bustling with healthcare students from medicine, nursing, radiology and cardio respiratory, to name a few. These students learn from our patients and are being mentored by our exceptional professionals. We are able to give our students the experience of a patient-focused learning opportunity.

Finally, thank you to our great staff for providing the best care for our patients and families. As we transition, putting our patients first and caring for each other, we are becoming ‘Healthy Together’.

Respectfully,

Angèle Brunelle, Chair
Board of Directors