News Release                            For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                     August 27, 2009

Province Releases The Initial Report on Public Health

The Public Health Division of the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) has released The Initial Report on Public Health, reflecting the state of public health in Ontario. The report profiles public health units across Ontario, including the Grey Bruce Health Unit, showing local demographics as well as data for 34 selected indicators including:

•         population health status  

•         governance, financial and human resources

The report identifies health units within “Peer Groups”, clusters of public health units of similar social and economic factors. Specific case studies showcasing local practices are also highlighted.

The report provides a snapshot of the scope/breadth of the public health system. It is not intended to be a performance report or scorecard. The report is a web-based product available through the MOHLTC website at:

http://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/public/pub/pubhealth/init_report/index.html

Notable benchmarks identified for the Grey Bruce Health Unit include 95.6 per cent immunization coverage for Measles, Mumps and Rubella and 90.7 per cent immunization coverage for Hepatitis B. Youth heavy drinking rates are below the provincial average while youth smoking abstinence rates are higher than average.

Case studies include the Grey Bruce Health Unit’s program Moving Forward. Targeting high-risk young families, Moving Forward helps clients break the cycle of poverty by addressing barriers that prevent individuals from obtaining adequate education and employment.

“The report’s population health status indicators provide a point of reference to better understand the health of our community.” says Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hazel Lynn. “These indicators will assist the Health Unit to address programs and services to meet locally identified needs.”  

For further information, call the Grey Bruce Health Unit at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456.

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For more information:

Dr Hazel Lynn

Medical Officer of Health

Grey Bruce Health Unit

519-376-9420 0r 1-800-263-3456 ext. 1269