Ontario Health to replace LHINs

By Mike Williscraft

NewsNow

A new super agency announced yesterday will, “gradually” replace the LHIN (Local Health Integration Network) organization, says Health Minister Christine Elliott.

In an interview with NewsNow Tuesday afternoon, Elliott said the new organization, Health Ontario, will create a one-call stop for all inquiries.

Elliott said the major shift is in response to countless stories related to government officials about problems in connecting with care both in and out of hospitals.

Local health teams, made up of existing professionals in local areas will be formed and “they will have financial accountability”, said Elliott.

“(Health teams) will gradually replace the LHINs,” she said, noting full integration will take “a couple of years”.

WLMH

Regarding West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, Elliott said they are continuing to work with Hamilton Health Sciences to get the operating room nurse staff to a point where the weekend closures started last week can cease.

“I know it has been very upsetting for the people of Grimsby and surrounding area,” she said.