Some Examples of Engaging our Community

Here are some of the ways that the Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant LHIN has listened and learned (click on the link to learn more about each):

• Social Justice Fair (for Youth) (April 2010) - The HNHB LHIN participated in the Hamilton Wentworth District School Board's Third Annual Social Justice Fair, which brings together over 100 schools and 30 organizations. The HNHB LHIN took this opportunity to talk to youth about the roles they play in not only their own health but also the health of their peers.  The LHIN developed stories about five teens, each with issues teens commonly face: bullying, sexual orientation, risky sexual behaviour, homelessness, addictions, and depression. Students were asked to read through the examples and choose one they could relate to. Through role playing, students identified the paths that would lead to the best and worst case outcomes. They then came up with ideas to help those teens head down a healthy path.
• Learn, Discover, Share - Open Houses (2009) - Throughout the month of October, 2009, we held 12 Open Houses across our communities. Those who attended had the opportunity to chat with our board and staff to discover how the HNHB LHIN and its partners work to improve our health care system, learn about our Integrated Health Service Plan (IHSP) directions, and share their thoughts and ideas for a healthier future. 
• "If I could change" Postcards (ongoing) - This initative asks "If I could change one thing to make the health care system better, I would...".  The postcards are available in a wide range of locations and over 600 postcards have been submitted to the LHIN as of December 1, 2009.
• Clinical Services Plan (2009) - This process has involved over 1000 stakeholders in creating a plan to improve access to health care services.   
• Diabetes Action Group (2009) - As part of our chronic disease prevention and management strategy, this group of interested diabetes service providers from across the HNHB LHIN identified over 60 priority areas for potential action.  The group created an inventory of patient materials on diabetes care for health service providers.  They continue to work together to advance other priorities.
• Let's Talk: Aging at Home (2008) - This initiative involved over 600 seniors and their caregivers in a series of conversations about healthy aging.  It not only provided the LHIN with advice, knowledge and insight, but as well linked learners to issues in aging, connected people with ideas and aspirations, and stimulated interest in the Aging at Home Strategy. 
• The Aboriginal Search Conference (2008) - This three day conference brought together over 80 Aboriginal participants to discuss what the health care experience should be for Aboriginal people.