February 2025

BAOHT Partner Bulletin

Stay informed and connected with us! Committed to supporting patients, families, caregivers, and health partners, we provide the latest insights, resources, and community highlights.

Compassionate Care Without Barriers Clinic for Unattached Patients

Located at Trinity Anglican Church (24 Collier St.), the Compassionate Care Without Barriers (CCWB) clinic provides barrier-free care for both acute and chronic conditions. The clinic operates Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering appointment-based services tailored to the unique needs of marginalized populations, including refugees and newcomers.

Since opening in July 2023, CCWB has been committed to delivering health care with dignity and respect, ensuring that those without OHIP or financial resources still receive the medical attention they need.

With support from the County of Simcoe, CCWB has expanded its reach to meet the growing demand for accessible health services. To date, the clinic has 387 rostered patients and recently completed its 950th appointment—a milestone that highlights the crucial role it plays in the community.

Who is eligible?

  • Family household income of $60,000 or less
  • Individual household income of $30,000 or less
  • Those not currently rostered to a primary care provider

CCWB also accepts donations of medical supplies and equipment to support their work. If you have unused medical supplies or equipment that could help, please contact the clinic at 705-417-2763 to coordinate a donation.

Jo-Anne Flood, founder and president of Compassionate Care Without Barriers (CCWB), and Brenda Brown, nurse practitioner, inside the clinic at Trinity Anglican Church in Barrie. CCWB provides barrier-free health care to marginalized individuals, including those without OHIP or financial resources.

Indigenous Health in Indigenous Hands – 15th Annual Indigenous Health Forum

Earlier this week, the Indigenous Health Circle hosted its 15th Annual Indigenous Health Forum, bringing together collaborators to learn, connect and celebrate the powerful work being done by Indigenous providers for Indigenous patients. This year’s theme—Indigenous Health in Indigenous Hands—was brought to life through inspiring speakers, interactive breakout sessions and meaningful discussions.

The event featured engaging presentations from Indigenous health leaders, hands-on workshops and opportunities to explore traditional healing practices. Participants left feeling inspired, empowered and deeply connected to the collective mission of advancing Indigenous-led health care.

After 15 years as co-chair of the Indigenous Health Circle, Germaine Elliott, Executive Director, Mamaway Wiidokdaadwin, introduced incoming co-chairs Desarae Doolittle, Director of Indigenous Services, Canadian Mental Health Association, Muskoka-Parry Sound; and Cassandra Crowe, Indigenous Coordinator, Royal Victoria Regional Health Centire; along with Kristin Monague, Indigenous Health System Transformation Specialist, Mamaway; who provided a report and key accomplishments of the IHC.

Dr. Lisa Simon, Associate Medical Officer of Health, Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU); Sarah Gill, Manager, Health Equity, Population Health, SMDHU; Ann-Marie Kungl, CEO, Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County (ASSC); and Nicole Schneider, Education Coordinator, ASSC
Dr. Pam Toulouse emceed the two-day event, captivating attendees with her energy, enthusiasm, and wisdom. Her engaging presence kept the momentum high, fostering rich dialogue and shared learning throughout the forum.
Jeff Monague led a breakout session titled Music is Medicine, where he shared the profound healing power of song and music, offering participants an immersive and uplifting experience.
Clayton King’s breakout session provided participants with the opportunity to create their own Indigenous painting, embracing the deep cultural significance of art in healing. Other breakout sessions included a restorative sound bath experience and shaker-making workshop, both of which allowed attendees to explore traditional wellness practices

Equity, Inclusion, Diversity & Anti-Racism (EIDA-R) Working Group Education Spotlight

Each month, we will spotlight a specific equity-deserving population and share educational resources to support them.

Although Black History Month comes to an end as February wraps up, the importance of learning about the struggles, achievements, and contributions of Black and Racialized communities remains constant. By continuing to educate ourselves, we foster a more accurate and inclusive understanding of history, promote cultural awareness and appreciation, and help combat prejudice to build a more equitable society. To view the list of resources and learning opportunities that you can share with your team related to supporting Black and Racialized communities, visit the Provider Resource page on our website. Select the drop down EIDA-R Education Spotlight – Black and Racialized communities

Volunteer Opportunity: Join the GNPLC Board of Directors
Sharing on behalf of the Georgian Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic (GNPLC)

The Georgian Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic (GNPLC) is seeking a dedicated volunteer to join its Board of Directors. This three-year term includes six board meetings per year and offers an opportunity to help shape the future of team-based, patient-centered care in Barrie and Innisfil.

Individuals with financial expertise in the non-profit or government sectors are especially encouraged to apply. The board values diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants who reflect the communities GNPLC serves. To learn more or apply, visit georgiannplc.ca.

Innovative Partnership Transforms Hospice Care with New Technology
Sharing on behalf of Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) along with four local hospices – Hospice Muskoka (Port Carling), Hospice Huronia (Penetanguishene), Hospice Simcoe (Barrie), and Hospice Georgian Triangle (Collingwood) – are proud to announce the implementation of a new collaboration that will significantly enhance the flow of information and transform the hospice experience.

The partnership integrates the hospices into RVH’s electronic medical record system, MEDITECH Expanse, creating a seamless flow of information and improved patient care.

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Regional health care partners (left to right) Donna Kearney, Executive Director, Hospice Muskoka; Trish Rawn, Chief Executive Officer, Hospice Georgian Triangle; Dave Brewin, RVH Vice President, Digital Health & Regional Chief Information Officer; Kelly Hubbard, Executive Director, Hospice Simcoe – Seasons Centre; and Stacey Cooper, Director of Operations and Community Programs, Hospice Huronia – Tomkins House, celebrate the successful integration of hospices into Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre’s electronic medical record system—marking a major milestone in advancing hospice care across Simcoe Muskoka.

Do you have News, Events or Updates you’d like us to share with our community? Send us the details and we’ll include in the next BAOHT Bulletin. Contact us at info@baoht.ca