Hastings Prince Edward Resident Acting Medical Officer of Health Dr. Peter Oglaza. (File photo: Mary Thomas/Quinte News)
Proposals for changes to the provincial health standards would allow local public health officials to adapt programs and services based on local needs.
Hastings Prince Edward Resident Medical Officer of Health, Dr.Peter Oglaza, tells Quinte News it would be important locally since the issues in this area are different in emphasis from urban areas.
Oglaza points to the issue of teen pregnancy, which has a higher rate in this area compared to urban areas of Ontario.
The draft standards indicate the policy direction being taken by the government, with a large emphasis on more collaboration between public health and other key stakeholders, a focus on population health outcomes, and an emphasized focus on health equity, equitable practice, and school health.
As part of the consultation process, the Hastings Prince Edward Board of Health is preparing a response to the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, which will provide recommendations regarding what support, policies, and protocols are required in order to implement these new standards.
There is an April 21 deadline for feedback, and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario is also expected to provide some input.
