Collaborating health and social care partners of the Timiskaming Ontario Health Team (TOHT) have launched an initiative to better understand and improve diabetes care and health and wellness across the district of Timiskaming and Temagami.

“While we know there is room for improvement in local diabetes education and care, it is vital that any changes are based on what we hear directly from people living with diabetes and their family and friends who help them with their care” said Jorge VanSlyke, President and CEO of Blanche River Health (BRH) and a TOHT collaborating partner.

The project has just launched a survey for those 18 years and older living with diabetes and those who help provide care (family, friends, neighbours) for adults living with diabetes. The survey is available in English and French at this website; diabetesvoice2024.squarespace.com. Printed copies of the survey may also be available at local health care provider offices and the Timiskaming Diabetes Education Program.

“With approximately one in six adults in the area living with diabetes, this initiative is an opportunity to work together to reimagine diabetes health and social care in Timiskaming” said Dr. Meaghan Alexander, Co-Chair of the TOHT Primary Care Network Council. “By listening and learning, we can ensure every individual receives the support they need and use scarce resources wisely. I encourage those living with diabetes to take the survey to have their voice heard” added Dr. Alexander.

In addition to the survey, community consultations were held for those living with diabetes and health and social care providers. During November Diabetes Month, the initiative launched a survey to hear about the experience of local health providers who support people living with diabetes. “The project will be hosting a follow-up session in February 2025 to discuss the survey and consultation findings and to determine next steps for improvement with the voice of patients at the centre of every decision” shared Vanslyke.

Other Quotes

• “It’s nice to be able to provide feedback as a provider. I am hoping this brings increased services and awareness to diabetes management” – health care provider, Timiskaming December 2024.
• “I appreciate that we are getting the chance to give our opinion and be heard” – person living with diabetes, Timiskaming December 2024.
• “I am pleased that I was able to shared information and it is nice to see someone wants to improve diabetes care” – person living with diabetes, Timiskaming December 2024.

For more information visit diabetesvoice2024.squarespace.com or email TimiskamingOHT@blancheriverhealth.ca

Fast Facts

• Approximately 16% of those 18 and older in the TOHT area are living with diabetes compared to 15% in Ontario.
• Of those, 28% experience hospitalization compared to 15% for Ontario.
• In Ontario, diabetes contributes to 30% of strokes, 40% of heart attacks, 50% of kidney failures requiring dialysis and 70% of non-traumatic lower limb amputations and is a leading cause of blindness.
• Those living with diabetes are 2 to 3 times more likely to live with depression.

About the Timiskaming Area Ontario Health Team

The Timiskaming Area Ontario Health Team (TAOHT) is one of 58 OHTs in Ontario serving the Timiskaming District and Temagami. Ontario Health Teams are providing a new way of organizing and delivering care that is more connected to patients, families and care partners in their local communities. Health care providers work as one coordinated team – no matter where they provide care, to strengthen local services, make it easier for patients to navigate the system, and create seamless transitions between providers.

Media Contact
Kerry Schubert-Mackey,
Transformation Lead-Timiskaming Ontario Health Team
Kerry.Schubert-Mackey@blancheriverhealth.ca.

About Blanche River Health

Blanche River Health is a 74-bed hospital corporation with two sites serving the North Eastern Ontario communities of Englehart (26 beds) and Kirkland Lake (48 beds) as well as residents in surrounding areas. Our mission is to make health care work for you. BRH values people and continuous improvement and we demonstrate this through accountability, respect, and courage to excel.

Pictured: 

Stefanie Aitchison, BRH Registered Nurse and Certified Diabetes Educator,  Temiskaming Diabetes Program- North.