Innisfil Healthy Communities Assessment Report
Transcription
Innisfil Healthy Communities Assessment Report
Innisfil Healthy Communities Assessment Report December, 2012 Prepared by Grace Ross RN MSc, Project Coordinator and Christine Kurtz Landy RN PhD With the support of York University School of Nursing Innisfil Healthy Communities Assessment committee: Claire Mallette, RN, PhD, Director of the School of Nursing / Principal Investigator Cheryl Van Daalen-Smith, RN, PhD Elsabeth Jensen, RN, PhD Dianne McCauley, RN, PhD (c) Lynn Harwood-Lunn, RN, MScN 2 Innisfil Healthy Communities Assessment Report Table of Contents I. Acknowledgements............................................................................................................ 4 II. Executive Summary............................................................................................................. 6 III. Background........................................................................................................................ 9 IV. Focus of the Healthy Community Assessment.................................................................. 11 A. Two Focus Areas................................................................................................... 12 i. Access to Health Services ii. Social Determinants of Health B. Community Assessment Methods.......................................................................... i. Student Community Assessment methods (qualitative) ii. On line survey (quantitative) iii. Key informant interviews (qualitative) C. Who was consulted?............................................................................................. D. Questions asked..................................................................................................... E. How were the results compiled and analyzed?..................................................... 13 16 16 17 V. The Findings and Analysis........................……………………………….………………………………………. 17 A. Focus groups i. Seniors ii. Youth iii. Service groups B. Key informant Interviews C. Survey Analysis D. Limitations VI. Community Perspectives and Core Community Health Issues............................................ 18 A. Capacities and Strengths B. Core Community Health Priorities VII. Discussion of Core Community Health Priorities…………………………………………………………… 20 VIII. Preliminary Recommendations……………………………………………………………………………………. 26 IX. Conclusion......................................................................................................................... 27 X. References......................................................................................................................... 29 XI. Appendices A. Ethics Committee Approval.................................................................................... 30 B. Project Schedule -Deliverables and timelines document....................................... 31 C. Questions asked of focus groups and key respondents......................................... 34 3 D. E. F. G. Summary of Focus Group Responses...................................................................... 36 Summary of Key Informant Responses.................................................................. 38 Summary of Survey Analyses................................................................................. 41 Draft List of Community and Social Services.......................................................... 57 4 I. Acknowledgements We would like to acknowledge the following individuals whose input was invaluable in the preparation of this report. First, and most importantly, we wish to thank the residents of Innisfil who responded to our survey, participated in focus groups and granted individual interviews. While individual respondents remain anonymous, we wish to acknowledge the many community organizations in Innisfil and surrounding area who shared information. Alcoholics Anonymous Barrie and Community Family Health Team Barrie and Area Family Physician Recruitment Committee Family Practice Teaching Unit University of Toronto Georgian Nurse Practitioner Led clinic Health Care Connect Innisfil Community Church Innisfil Examiner Innisfil Public Library Meals on Wheels North Simcoe Muskoka LHIN Rainbow Health Coalition Rural Ontario Medical Program Simcoe Barrie Community Health Centre Simcoe County District School Board Simcoe Muskoka County Public Health Unit South Simcoe Police Services YMCA Youth Mobile Crisis Response Services Our deep appreciation goes to the members of the Town of Innisfil Community Health Committee, who worked diligently with the researchers to ensure community access, provided feedback and suggestions and shared both their time and intimate knowledge of the community. Thanks also to the Innisfil volunteers who provided their knowledge and expertise as preceptors for our nursing students during their community placement: Erin Beresford, Howard Courtney, Miriam King, Barbara Love, and Erin Scuccimarri. We wish to acknowledge the third year York University School of Nursing students who were an essential component of the “living/learning laboratory” that this community assessment provided. They are: Lauren Frith, Angela Gallant, Victoria Pitts, Amber Squires, Sarah Taylor, Shannon Vince, Holly Whiston, and Jessica Williams. Marcia Bissette, their Community Course Director provided constant support. Thank you to our two fourth year nursing students who chose to complete part of their Independent Practicum placement with the Innisfil Healthy Communities Assessment – Lisa Aubin and Laura Colaricci. The qualitative portions of the Healthy Communities Assessment are largely a function of their labours. 5 A personal thank you goes to my colleagues at York University School of Nursing who were a part of the Innisfil Healthy Communities Assessment Committee, for their guidance, feedback and support. To the many individuals who remain un-named yet gave input and guidance– our deepest appreciation. Grace Ross Project Coordinator, Innisfil Healthy Communities Assessment 6 II. Executive Summary Background In December 2011, led by the Innisfil Community Health Committee, the Town of Innisfil embarked on an innovative project with the School of Nursing (SON) at York University to undertake a Healthy Communities Assessment. This project was in large part a response to the mandate for promoting and responding to community health care identified in the Inspiring Innisfil 2020 report (2010). The retirement of two family physicians in Innisfil further precipitated the need to examine the health needs of the community. A two pronged approach was agreed upon – to determine the degree to which Innisfil has access to primary care providers and to assess the social determinants of health of this community. What is a Healthy Communities Assessment? A Healthy Communities Assessment is a process of gathering, analyzing and reporting information about the health needs of a community. The capacities or strengths that are currently available in the community to meet those needs are also identified. The Innisfil Healthy Communities Assessment was underscored by the recognition that health is achieved when people are able to have their needs satisfied, their hopes realized and experience resilience in coping with life (WHO, 2009). Essentially, the health of a community is quantified by more than the absence of disease, but also looks at those social determinants of health that address quality of life and health as a positive force in the life of a community. Central to this research process is the importance of engaging community members in the assessment process. Methods Student nurses and faculty from York University’s School of Nursing undertook this assessment under the coordination of Grace Ross, Course Director for the undergraduate nursing course Community as Partner. A multi-methods approach was used, comprised of both qualitative and quantitative methods, which included focus groups, formal and informal interviews and an online survey. Nursing students conducted a series of focus groups with several diverse groups. Both the students and the project coordinator interviewed area residents, professionals and community agencies to collect qualitative data. This included accumulating community stories about what supports healthy living and quality of life as well as identifying the numerous capacities and strengths of the community. Concurrently an online survey was developed and made available on the Town website to collect community demographics, health status, accessibility and usage of health services. In addition, an inventory of health related services available within the community was collected. Researchers from the SON and representatives from the Town of Innisfil fostered an ongoing dialogue to ensure clarity of vision, breadth and scope of the project. Findings Analyses of the collected data identified both strengths and community health needs. There is much evidence to support the notion that Innisfil does have identified capacity to serve the health and social 7 needs of the community through access to primary care services, multiple community supports, recreational opportunities, a shared sense of community and potential for employment opportunities. On the other hand, residents identified a number of health related issues which they believe compromised their personal health and the health of the community overall. The following areas were identified as core health priorities: Awareness about available health and community services; Access to Primary Care: Family Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Urgent Care and Walk In Clinics; Access to other health care services – sexual health services, physician specialists; Access to mental health supports, services and crisis care; Connection and sense of community; Recognition of diversity and inclusivity for new comers; and Expanded employment opportunities Preliminary Recommendations In response to these identified core health priorities, the researchers, in collaboration with the Innisfil Community Health Committee developed the following list of recommendations for consideration by Town Council. They include: Core Health Priority Recommendations Information about health and community services Access to Primary Care: family physicians, nurse Practitioners, Urgent Care and Walk In Clinics That the Town of Innisfil provide and maintain a registry of community services on its web site and advertise its availability in multiple sources, in particular the Town Newsletter That Town Council advocate with the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care and the North Simcoe Muskoka LHIN for the following: o That the cap on physician approvals to join Family Health Teams be lifted o Easier access/decreased bureaucracy related to residents being accepted on to Health Care Connect o Inclusion of Innisfil in the catchment area of the Barrie Community Health Centre Continue to support the efforts of and be an active member in the Barrie Area Physician Recruitment Taskforce (BAPR) Complete a feasibility study exploring the impact and efficiency of setting up a satellite clinic from the Georgian Nurse Practitioner clinic in Innisfil That the Town encourage the creation of a walk-in clinic in Innisfil staffed by Barrie area family physicians and other health care practitioners That the Town advocate with the Barrie urgent Care Clinic for longer evening/weekend hours 8 Access to other health care services – sexual health services Access to mental health promotion, supports, services and crisis care Connection and sense of community Diversity and inclusivity for new comers Expanded employment opportunities Undertake a comprehensive assessment of the need for sexual health services in Innisfil and explore options for establishing a clinic for such services in the community or improve access to existing sexual health services Undertake a mental health and social services community assessment to ascertain present capacity to provide support services and mental health promotion with emphasis on the needs of seniors and youth Complete a feasibility study for shuttle buses from Alcona to Go Bus/ Train stations Research unique alternatives/options for public transportation Completion of sidewalks/bicycle paths along Innisfil Beach Road Support for the Library as the cultural hub of Innisfil Support the overall design of ‘healthy communities’ Encourage and harness the strong sense of volunteerism Continue to support events, community projects, and recreational programs such as summer camps Emphasize needs specific to youth in planning for accessible recreation and cultural activities Institute Heritage and Culture Appreciation Days Encourage expansion of newcomer awareness programs Education for Inclusivity in area elementary and high schools Continued municipal support for job fairs Study solutions to transportation issues for youth seeking employment Conclusion According to the World Health Organization, “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” (WHO, 1948). This report has addressed not only access to health services, but also those determinants of health that more broadly address quality of life and well-being. Through an innovative, multi-methods community health assessment approach the report captures a broad picture of the strengths and capacities of the Town of Innisfil as well as identifying health related needs and issues reported by numerous respondents. The recommendations to Council, while preliminary, point the way to a comprehensive, forward-looking approach to ensuring that Innisfil become the healthiest community possible. 9 III. Background Inspiring Innisfil 2020 In 2010, the Town of Innisfil embarked on an ambitious community-wide planning exercise. The result was the creation of a strategic planning document known as Inspiring Innisfil 2020. The goal of this initiative was to position Innisfil as the ‘place to be by 2020’. Around the same time that Town Council adopted the series of tactics which launched the implementation phase of Inspiring Innisfil 2020, Council recognized an emerging health crisis in the community. With the closure of one of the two medical offices in the community, the number of family physicians in Innisfil dropped to 2. With limited alternatives to primary care services in the town, Council agreed to act to help minimize the impact to residents and created the Innisfil Community Health Committee (ICHC). ICHC is an Ad Hoc Committee of Council whose purpose is to improve access to community-based, integrated, high-quality and appropriate primary health care services in the Town of Innisfil. The creation of the committee also supported one of the main pillars in Inspiring Innisfil 2020 – to ‘improve our quality of life dramatically.’ The mandate of the ICHC is to: Investigate the feasibility of various short and long term options for establishing locally based community health care; Advise Council on various health care models and options in order to improve access to health care services in the Town of Innisfil; Inventory and research available community spaces for the provision of health care services; Develop partnership with learning institutions to provide teaching or learning venues for practitioners of many levels; Partner with community groups and support agencies to attract skilled health care professionals to practice in Innisfil; Be a community liaison for health care matters; and, Raise public awareness of health care issues, such as illness prevention and health promotion. Community Context The Town of Innisfil is a growing lake-side community located just 45 minutes north of Toronto and is one of 16-member municipalities that comprise the County of Simcoe. According to the 2011 Census, the Town of Innisfil has a population of 33,079 which is comprised of almost equal portions of male (16,590) and female (16,490) residents (Stats Can, 2011) A further breakdown by age can be found in Figure 1. Official planning documents for Innisfil, forecast that the population will grow to 56,000 by 2031. 10 Figure 1: Innisfil Percentage of Population by Age 12.00% 10.00% 8.00% 6.00% 4.00% Percentage of Total Population Percentage of Male Population Percentage of Female Population 2.00% 0.00% A few other key points regarding the community demographics that can be found in the 2010 Situational Analysis Report for the Town of Innisfil are listed below: Innisfil has a significantly smaller percentage of the population that is a visible minority. All average and median incomes (total, family, household) between 2001 and 2010 are rising and are higher than Simcoe County’s and Ontario’s in 2010. The percentage of the population that has attained a University Bachelor’s degree is lower than Simcoe County and Ontario. The majority of Innisfil’s residents speak English only. NOTE: The 2011 Census, reconfirms English is the primary language spoken with a large percentage of residents indicating that their mother tongue is English (29,230 residents or 88.4%). The majority of Innisfil’s labour force (82.2%) commutes outside of Innisfil for work. The Town of Innisfil was founded approximately 20 years ago, through a forced amalgamation with several communities. Many believe this has led to a feeling of disconnect amongst the various ‘neighbourhoods’ or settlement areas. In December 2011, lead by the ICHC, the Town of Innisfil embarked on an innovative project with the School of Nursing (SON) at York University to undertake a Healthy Communities Assessment. Members of the ICHC indicated that the Town of Innisfil is under-served in terms of health care services and 11 providers, yet little was known in terms of quantifiable data. As well, little was known about the socialenvironmental factors that have an impact on the health of this community. In order to identify the determinants of health and address gaps in health service provision additional research was necessary. A Healthy Communities Assessment is a process of gathering, analyzing and reporting information about the health needs of a community and the capacities or strengths that are currently available in the community to meet those needs. Healthy Communities Assessments are meant to be all encompassing part of a complex process of identifying and responding to health problems, needs, and issues affecting the residents from a socio-environmental approach. Central to this research process is the importance of engaging community members in the assessment process, focusing not only on needs but on identifying and building on community strengths, such as the level of volunteerism or informal social supports. As such, empowerment, promoting critical thinking and consciousness for social change were inherent themes of the assessment process (Sahud, A., Bartfay, W.J., 2010; Clark, M., 2003) Student nurses and faculty from York University’s School of Nursing undertook this assessment under the coordination of Grace Ross RN MSc, Course Director for the Community as Partner undergraduate nursing course. Nursing students and faculty interviewed area residents, professionals and agencies to collect qualitative data. This included collection of community stories about quality of life and what supports healthy living as well as identifying the numerous capacities and strengths of the community. Concurrently the SON, with the support of the Town of Innisfil implemented an online survey which collected data that included community demographics, health status, accessibility and usage of health services and an inventory of health care-related services available within the community. Representatives of the SON and representatives from the Town of Innisfil fostered an ongoing dialogue to ensure clarity of vision, breadth and scope of the project. IV. Focus of the Healthy Community Assessment When people are asked to remember a time when they felt really healthy, very few talk about illnesses they have experienced. Most people instead recall a time when they felt happy, engaged with life, supported in their basic needs, and able to work, play and participate with others in families and social groups. They use words that describe their quality of life and the freedom to live life to the fullest. Healthy communities are made up of healthy people - people who are connected and have their physical, emotional and social needs met through positive interaction with their communities. Healthy communities are not static, but are continuously growing, improving and developing the resources that they need to ensure that all its residents reach their potential (Hancock, T., Minkler, M.,1997). In assessing the degree to which Innisfil sees itself as a healthy community our focus divided along two main focus areas: 1) Access to Health Services 2) Social Determinants of Health. 12 There is common understanding that communities need access to services that will promote their health, prevent disease and care for people in times of illness. At the same time we recognize the importance of identifying the degree to which social determinants of health have an impact on the Innisfil community (WHO, 1986). a. Two Main Focus Areas I. Access To Health Services: The purpose of this focus area was to determine the degree to which access to health services is a factor for residents of Innisfil. It has long been recognized that access to quality health care may be compromised in rural communities due to the following factors: low population density smaller communities within a municipality may not be able to sustain services in and of themselves geographic distance from major health services such as hospitals lack of public transportation scarcity of a range of service providers that can address a variety of health needs the unique needs of rural populations According to the Ministry of Health for Ontario: ‘Rural’ communities in Ontario are those with a population of less than 30,000 that are greater than 30 minutes away in travel time from a community with a population of more than 30,000. (Government of Canada-MOHLTC, 2010) While Innisfil does not strictly fit this definition, it was recognized that a combination of the above factors do affect residents to varying degrees. The intent of this research stream was to identify the barriers and identify services for which access was problematic. II. Social Determinants Of Health What difference does having social supports make to a senior who lives alone? Why do teenagers choose to use drugs? How does having a steady job help the health of a young adult? How can we teach a new mom better parenting skills? These are the kinds of questions we ask when assessing the health of a community through a lens of social determinants of health (see Table 1 below) (CPHA, 1996). 13 Table 1. The Social Determinants of Health Adequate income and social status Personal Health Practices and Coping Skills Social Support Networks Healthy Child Development Education and Literacy Biology and Genetic Endowment Meaningful Employment/Supportive Working Conditions Positive and Supportive Social Environments Health Services Physical Environments that are free from environmental hazards Freedom from violence Absence of discrimination based on , Gender, culture, race and sexual orientation In short, improving health is a vital component of human development. Using the lens of Social Determinants of Health helps us see health as a positive concept, where people are able to have their needs satisfied, their hopes realized and have the resilience to cope with life (WHO, 1986). A healthy community from a Social Determinants of Health perspective results in: Improved personal perception of quality of life Improved social networks Improved quality of social support Improved community group actions to support more equitable social distribution of wealth and resources Enactment of policies related to social equity Improved environmental sustainability (Hancock, T., Minkler, M., 2005) b. Our Community Assessment Methods Known data sources do not always reflect the conditions in the community. In assessing the health of the Innisfil community the researchers not only took into account previously published statistical data, but also engaged with diverse groups of citizens, business people, town leaders, health care providers and students, using a multi-methods approach. This multi-methods approach allowed the researchers to understand health needs, identify the strengths and assets of the Innisfil community, and what people think could be improved (Hancock, T., Minkler, M., 2005). The researchers went where the people are – where they live, where they play, where they work and where they pray. They spoke to them one-on-one and in groups, some formal and many informal. This process ensured a voice for those in the community who may not be heard through other channels, and in particular ensured that the researchers were aware of local issues as perceived by area residents. 14 This process included the following: I. Student-Led Community Assessment Methods (Qualitative) For three months from January-April, 2012, eight 3rd year community nursing students from York University (under the mentorship of four key members of the Innisfil community) spent 12 hours each week engaged in a learn-as-you-go method of community assessment. The nursing students spent their time: Driving around the community with Town Councillors (“windshield surveys”) to help the students get oriented to the community and hear insights from Councillors Attending community functions Doing walk-abouts through the neighborhoods of Innisfil Reviewing demographic and social indicators to inform their questions Examining documents such as “Inspiring Innisfil 2020” (Town of Innisfil) Perusing progress reports from Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, and the Situational Analysis Report for the Town of Innisfil that was compiled as part of the Inspiring Innisfil 2020 community planning exercise (Town of Innisfil, 2010) Engaging the community using assessment tools outlined below They asked questions of all they met - questions that got to the heart of what it means to be healthy, what the health issues and needs are, what the strengths of the Innisfil community are and what is needed to address their concerns (see Appendix C for the questions asked). In engaging the people of Innisfil, they used the following assessment methods: Key informant interviews (see further description below) Formal focus groups. Focus groups are typically groups with similar attributes e.g. students, seniors, who are brought together to interact and provide their opinions to a series of questions asked by the moderators. They are interactive and allow for first person experiences to be shared. They also allow for prompting of further discussion and ideas. Collecting community stories about what residents believe makes Innisfil healthy and strong and what is missing, difficult or challenging about living in Innisfil Striking up conversations with residents at community locations such as the Innisfil Recreational Complex, churches and small informal group meetings such as parenting groups and seniors groups The nursing students presented their findings and conclusions to the public at an Open House meeting at Innisfil Town Hall in March. In May two 4th year nursing students continued the community health assessment as part of their 12 week Independent Practicum placement. Their placement consisted of facilitating formal focus groups with Innisfil residents - primarily youth and seniors as well as continuing with key informant interviews. The findings of both student groups were analyzed and included in this final report. 15 II. Key Informant Interviews (Qualitative) Key informant interviews are in-depth one-on-one interviews with people who are perceived to be knowledgeable about the community. Individual interview allow for exploration of first-person experiences and allows the researcher to enter into discussions prompted by the input of the interviewee. Both the student nurses and the study coordinator interviewed a wide range of people—community leaders, education professionals, health service organization directors, health care providers and residents, all of whom have firsthand knowledge about Innisfil. Because of their expertise or specific knowledge about the community these informants were able to provide information, their insights on the nature of health issues affecting Innisfil and in many cases offered recommendations for solutions. (see questions Appendix C). These interviews ranged from formal preset questions, to informal telephone or face to face interviews with a wide variety of community members, many of whom were identified by members of the Innisfil Community Health Committee. III. Online Survey (Quantitative) One way in which we collected quantitative data was through the development of an on-line survey, in collaboration with the Innisfil Community Health Committee; modeled after the Stats Canada Health Services Access Survey (StatsCan, 2001). This survey was made available on the Innisfil Town Website from July 4th until September 16 and was promoted through a variety of means including media releases, posters, and advertisements, during speaking engagements or interactions with the public. The student nurses promoted it at their community assessment sites. Hard copies of the survey were made available for those for whom online access was not feasible (approximately 200 respondents). In total, over 700 community members submitted answers to the survey, the results of which have been analyzed and summarized in tables (see appendix F). A complete copy of both the survey and the answers is available in the Town Clerk’s office. 16 c. Who was consulted? A strong community assessment is grounded in a grass roots approach where as many different people as possible are asked about their community (Minkler, M., 1990; Clarke et al, 2003). By embracing the importance of community engagement we ensured that were able to reach out to as many people as possible in a brief assessment period (see table 2). A summary of those who participated in the process is outlined below (see Table 2) Focus Groups Seniors from area retirement communities (5 groups) Youth from Simcoe County District School Board schools, church groups (5 groups) Public Health staff from Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit Professionals working with Youth Table 2: Who Was Consulted Online survey Key informants Access to the survey was not restricted to members of the Innisfil community although the respondents were primarily residents Innisfil Community Health Committee Mayor and Councillors of the Town of Innisfil Barrie and Community Family Health Team Barrie and Area Family Physician Recruitment Taskforce Family Medicine Residency Program at Toronto East General Hospital Georgian Nurse Practitioner Led clinic Health Care Connect Innisfil Community Church Innisfil Examiner Innisfil Public Library Meals on Wheels North Simcoe Muskoka Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) Rainbow Health Coalition Rural Ontario Medical Program Barrie Community Health Centre Simcoe County District School Board Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit South Simcoe Police Services YMCA Youth Mobile Crisis Response Services Alcoholics Anonymous Parent groups Local businesses Health services – Family doctors, chiropractor, dentist, personal support worker d. What kinds of questions were asked? The questions were grouped into four main areas as follows: a. What the person understood by the term “health” b. What they believed the health needs or issues were for themselves and for Innisfil c. What they believe the strengths or positives are about living in Innisfil d. What they believe is needed in Innisfil to address the identified needs For a full print out of the questions please see Appendix C. 17 e. How were the results compiled and analyzed? Qualitative interviews and focus group responses were transcribed and read by a team of three researchers who identified themes and patterns which corresponded to the questions above. Appendix D and E summarizes the compiled responses to the Focus Groups and Key Informant Interviews and written sections of the Survey. While the sheer volume of information is beyond the scope of this report to include, every attempt was made to capture repeated themes across the three sets of respondents. The Quantitative analysis was compiled by the FluidSurvey instrument and cross analysis was done using the statistical instrument SPSS. V. The Findings and Analysis a. Focus Group Findings Focus groups are brought together to “elicit and validate collective testimonies” (Kamberelis, G., Dimitriadis, G., 2005) or to collect stories, experiences and views from groups who share a common experience. The nursing students selected the following groups to allow for diverse viewpoints of a cross-section of Innisfil. The summarized results can be found in Appendix D. i. Seniors (5 focus groups) ii. Youth (5 focus groups) iii. Service providers focus groups (school support staff, public health staff) b. Key informant interviews Responses to interviews were grouped into two sections: Interviews with non-professionals (e.g. residents, business owners, Town Councillors etc) and those with health professionals. Each group presented their unique viewpoint of the health issues, capacity and what they believe is needed. The summarized results can be found in Appendix E c. Survey Analysis Appendix G provides a summary analysis of the survey results, grouping and highlighting main areas for consideration. The full survey and answers may be obtained from the Town Clerk’s office. d. Limitations to the Findings There are several limitations to the research findings which should be noted. The number of respondents to the survey was low given the population of Innisfil. Distribution and promotion of the survey during summer months when many residents are on vacation may have added to the low numbers. In addition, there were a proportionately higher number of senior respondents to the survey, perhaps linked to the sense of urgency many seniors reported in wanting accessible health care services. At the same time, there were far fewer youth who responded than is representative of the population. Survey responses were voluntary and dependent on resident’s awareness of the survey on-line. While opportunity was given for respondents to use a hard copy version, these were not widely available without additional calls. 18 The qualitative responses in the focus groups and in many of the key informant interviews were elicited by nursing students, who were using this community assessment as a learn-as-you-go educational process. While they were mentored and supervised by York SON faculty, the usual rigour associated with qualitative research may not have been consistently applied. VII Community Perspectives and Core Community Health Issues a. Capacities and strengths Communities are healthy when they have a vibrant back bone of services, recreational opportunities, community spirit and opportunities to meet the needs of their citizens (Sahud, A. , Bartfay, W.J., 2010). With the help of the Innisfil Community Health Committee, a comprehensive list of available resources has started to be compiled and can be found in Appendix G. The following are the strengths that focus group participants, area residents and key informants most often spoke of (Table 3) Table 3. Strengths and Capacities Health services capacity Stroud Medical Clinic. Three physicians currently operate out of the facility. Barrie Community Health Centre has moved to south Barrie,adjacent to Huronia Urgent Care Clinic, providing numerous community health services and primary care to North Innisfil seniors Two new family physicians each with a roster capacity of 1,300-1,500 have set up practice at Maple View practice on Huronia Rd Three additional family physicians are ready to set up practice with the Barrie Area Family Health Team pending Ministry of Health approval Barrie Area Family Health Team has plans underway for a new medical centre at the south end of Barrie which will provide-one-stop shopping for all labs, x-rays, pharmacy, Social Workers, Diabetes Education, Lung Health clinic and Cardio Clinics which will attract more physicians and provide easier access to specialists Georgian Nurse Practitioner clinic accepts patients who do not have a family doctor. Patients are assigned to the four family physicians who rotate through the clinic. The catchment area includes Innisfil. Huronia Urgent Care Clinic provides X-rays, cardiograms, casting and stitches as well as afterhours urgent care service Walk in clinics in Barrie which have prenatal or young mother’s clinics will accept Innisfil residents who do not have a family doctor The Barrie Family Medicine Residency Program from Toronto East General Hospital presently has 18 Family Medicine residents. This program continues to expand and may be a source for several new physicians who may choose to stay in the area in which they were taught The Barrie Area Physician Recruitment Task Force (BAPR) is partnered with the Town of Innisfil to actively recruit new doctors 19 Recreational services Other Health/social services Community Spirit Employment, Transportation Physician Assistants (PAs) can now be hired to assist physicians with heavy workloads. For more information visit http://www.healthforceontario.ca/ Many physicians are actively seeking Nurse Practitioners (NPs) to join their practice making primary care services accessible to more people. There is strong support for NPs among general public. Both PAs and NPs will allow family physicians to expand their roster to accommodate more patients The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit offers home visits, safe food and water inspections, health promotion programs, Healthy Babies program, Health Connection phone line The Cortel group bequeathed land for a hospital in Innisfil with the stipulation that it be developed within 20 years Notable examples include: YMCA, Library, Parks and Recreation, churches, active seniors retirement centres; Innisfil Beach park; skate park; summer camps; golf courses; Ontario Early Years programs Notable examples include: Flu shot clinics ; Children’s Aid Society of Simcoe County; Physiotherapists; Registered massage therapists; social supports at Sandycove Acres Retirement community; Guidance counselors and NewPath counselors at Nantyr Shores; Values, Influences and Peers program through Police; Community Police presence at Nantyr Shores; Meals on Wheels for Seniors; church support for those living in poverty; Alcoholics Anonymous, Community Care Access Centre/ Homecare, Ontario Early years Centres, prenatal classes. For a more comprehensive list see Appendix G. A community oriented Town Council and Health Committee seen to be genuinely concerned about the town; festivals and community projects; Arts, Culture and Heritage council; Active volunteering; sense of community at Sandycove Acres; Alcona is a designated primary settlement area in Innisfil; Newcomer awareness programs at the YMCA; other Immigrant support services in Simcoe County Friday Harbour resort potential jobs as it is developed Go Bus and Go train in the future along Hwy 11 Active volunteer drivers for Sandycove Acres Red Cross Volunteer transportation 20 b. Core Community Health Priorities Through extensive analysis and repeated consultation with the Innisfil Community Health Committee to validate our findings, the following areas were identified as core health Priorities (See table 4): Table 4: Core Community Health Priorities Lack of awareness of health and community services Access to Primary Care: Family Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Urgent Care and Walk In Clinics Access to other health care services – sexual health services, physician specialists Access to mental health supports, services and crisis care Connection and sense of community Diversity and inclusivity for new comers Expanded employment opportunities VII. Discussion of Core Community Health Priorities a. Lack of awareness of health and community services Accessibility to health care means that community members will receive appropriate care from the appropriate health care provider within a time frame that is reasonable (CNA, 2000).This means first of all, that individuals are aware of who they can call. The results of our survey indicated that many respondents identified a need for services or supports that in fact are available, yet they remain unaware of these services or had incorrect information about these services. Appendix G includes a list of services that address both primary care and the social determinants of health. When residents were asked where they obtained information about services that are available in the community, 55% reported that they obtained their health services information from friends, neighbors and family and 36% indicated they obtained information about health services from the newspaper (See Appendix F - Table 15). The Innisfil town website and town newsletter accounted for respectively only 7% and 9.5% of the information sources. Forty six percent (46%) of respondents reported that they wished to receive information through the town newsletter. While a more complete list of resources can be found in Appendix G, some key services that are available but not widely known are: Barrie Community Health Centre (BCHC) This centre has recently located to the south end of Barrie adjacent to the Urgent Care Clinic on Huronia Road, a 15 minute drive away from the Sandycove settlement area. One of its major programs, the North Innisfil Senior Program, is focussed solely on attracting those over age 60 in North Innisfil. While the BCHC catchment area for doctors is limited to those with a Barrie address, other programs at the Centre are available for Innisfil residents (Diabetes Program, Young Parents, Prenatal and Community Health promotion programs). 21 Barrie Area Family Health Team (BAFHT). Many residents were unaware that the BAFHT is actively recruiting family physicians. There are plans underway to build a new centralized medical building at the south end of Barrie to house several pods of Family Health team physicians, making them readily accessible to residents of Innisfil (within a 15 minute drive). Health Care Connect, a physician referral service for those without family doctors. Citizens can apply to have their names put on a waiting list for doctors accepting new patients. The Georgian Nurse Practitioner Program is open to taking on new patients if they do not have a physician. Again, many residents are unaware of this program and do not understand that the Nurse Practitioners ensure that they are covered by physicians as needed, or that this clinic has a mandate to serve residents of Innisfil. In addition they have ancillary support services available on site. Supports for Young Families There are multiple supports for prenatal and young families, for example Best Start Child and Family Centre at Sunnybrae School, Ontario Early Years programs and Parent- Tot Drop in programs at YMCA, of which many young families remain unaware. In addition the Barrie Community Health Centre welcomes new mothers to its community programs. List of Health and Community Support Services The Innisfil Community Health Committee has provided an initial list of services that speak to both the social determinants of health and primary care services (see Appendix G). b. Access to Primary Care: Family Physicians, Urgent Care, Walk in Clinics and Nurse Practitioners Primary Care is defined as services commonly accessed at the first point of contact with the health care system. In primary care the focus is on acute care and treatment of disease. Across the board many respondents spoke to the need for better access to primary care services. In answering the survey question “In your view what health services does Innisfil need more of?” 80% of respondents stated the need for more local family doctors and 54% specified the need for accessible walk-in or urgent care clinics. Over 67% of survey participants reported several primary care services they wanted to access, but were unable to access over the previous 12 months. These included family physicians, urgent care physicians and nurse practitioners. Access issues varied with whether the need was for routine/ongoing care or immediate care. Routine care was less of a problem with 45% expressing it was difficult/very difficult to access care as opposed to 59% who stated that it was difficult/very difficult to access immediate care for problems. Many expressed concerns about wait times, whether with their family physician or at the Urgent Care clinic. Other complaints included waiting too long to get an appointment; inability to get an appointment; non-availability of the service in the community; and transportation problems. According to the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, wait times at Royal Victoria Regional 22 Health Centre emergency department for minor or uncomplicated conditions average 2.8 hours (Government of Ontario - MOHLTC, 2010). Access to Family Physicians: Our survey indicated that 40% of Barrie residents are not rostered with physicians in the area. Reasons given on the survey for why participants did not have a family physician included: physicians not taking new patients; no physicians in their area; physician had moved out of the area or retired; not willing to go on the Health Care Connect list One survey respondent noted, “We definitely need a family doctor or at very least an urgent care walk-in. My only regret moving to Innisfil two years ago is that I didn't first check out the health care situation. It would have changed my decision”. The Barrie and Area Physician Recruitment Task force (BAPR) reports that 55,000 residents in their caption, which includes Barrie/Innisfil/Oro-Medonte and Springwater, are without family doctors. The Barrie Community Family Health Team projects that within three years this may reach as high as 80,000 since as many as 30 physicians on the Team are due to retire. The BAPR estimates that 60 new Family Physicians are needed to provide adequate service to this area over the next three years. Distance Barriers Forty percent (40%) of respondents reported their family physicians were located outside of Barrie/Innisfil. Fifty-three percent (53%) reported their doctor was in Barrie and 7% said their doctor was in Innisfil. While 87% percent of survey respondents reported they had a family physician, many of these physicians were located at a distance that made access difficult, for example 15.1% in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area) and 5.9% in Newmarket. Some participants reported travelling as far as Parry Sound, Durham and Hamilton to see their family physician. As one respondent noted, “I am not getting the level of care I need because I cannot travel 80 km one way to see our family doctor!” Health Care Connect Barriers: While residents may request their name be put on the Health Care Connect list, a physician referral service of the Ontario Government, key informants reported that the process of getting on the list is complicated and may be challenging for the average person to follow (e.g. the service only responds to a home phone number during business hours). In addition this service is restricted to residents who do not at present have a family doctor in Ontario. Patients need to formally give up their doctor who is some distance away in order to take a chance at finding an opening with a new doctor nearer to Innisfil. Many residents are reticent to abandon a doctor they are registered with in order to be put on a waiting list. On one day in November, only 100 residents from Innisfil were listed with Health Care Connect. At present Health Care Connect is not able to adequately provide referral services to many Innisfil residents due to the shortage of doctors with room in their practice roster. Heavy Practice Rosters: Family physicians in the area have exceptionally heavy practice rosters. The three doctors who presently practice in Stroud are not accepting new patients, along with the majority of family physicians in Barrie. According to key informants with the Barrie and Community Family Health Team, while the provincial goal for a family physician is 1200 patients per doctor, the 23 average number per practice in Barrie/Innisfil is 1,800. The average Toronto family physician, on the other hand has only 600 patients in his/her practice. Government Processing Barriers: The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) instituted a hold on processing physician applications for those wishing to join a Family Practice Team in June, 2012. In October the MOHLTC began the process of lifting this cap and approved a rate of 25 physicians per month across Ontario based primarily on criteria for northern and rural areas. At this time only two physicians have been approved for the area covered by the Barrie and Area Physician Recruitment Taskforce. While active recruitment is occurring through the BAPR Taskforce, the need to attract new family physicians to the area continues to be an issue as government caps prevent physicians from joining the area family practice team. Since Innisfil is not considered to be an underserviced community by MOHLTC standards, attracting new physicians requires additional recruitment activities that will need to come from the affected municipalities. Models of Practice Barriers: In Barrie, the Family Health Team model has become the prevailing model for new physicians in practice. According to several key physician informants, newly graduating physicians are less likely to set up a lone practice today unlike years ago when rural physicians would set up a lone or shared practice in a small town. Today physicians appreciate the knowledge sharing, mentorship, partnering with Nurse Practitioners, shared facilities and support services that a family practice team can provide. While there is no restriction to a physician setting up a practice that is not part of the Family Health Team, physicians are less likely to do so Catchment Area Barriers: While the Barrie Community Health Centre has recently moved to the south end of Barrie and is only a 15 minute drive from the centre of Innisfil, only one program, the North Innisfil Services to Seniors, provides primary care services to residents of Innisfil. The catchment area boundary excludes those with an Innisfil address who are seeking primary care except for those 60 and over living in North Innisfil. Age-related Barriers: Seniors more often than other age groups, expressed concerns about accessing primary care. With advancing age, fragility and potential for life threatening incidents such as falls or cardiac events, the sense of vulnerability for many seniors is increased. For example, many cited the fact that an ambulance trip to The Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre can take upwards of 30 minutes. While the new Barrie Community Health Centre North Innisfil Services to Seniors program provides access to primary care, the distance to emergency room care continues to be a concern among many seniors. Transportation issues, while not reported as a major barrier, are an issue for those who need to rely on volunteer drivers to attend physician appointments. Needs Specific to Commuters: With 82% of the Innisfil labor force reporting that they commute to work outside of Innisfil (Town of Innisfil, 2010), many return home around the time that the closest Urgent Care Clinic closes (7 pm). This makes access to immediate care for families very difficult. Patients must register with the clinic at least 2 hours before it closes; meaning that commuters must leave work in order to access the Urgent Care Clinic. One person noted, “I work in Toronto as do many people from the town, I need a family doctor available after 7:30 pm or weekends or at least a walk-in clinic”. Alternate Health Care Models: Survey respondents were open to alternate models of primary health care in addition to independent family physicians. The four models they were most likely to 24 use were Nurse Practitioners (67%), Urgent Care or Walk-in Clinics (62%), Family Practice Teams (52%) and Community Health Centres (41%). c. Access to other health care services – sexual health services, medical specialists, laboratories, x-ray clinics. Respondents to the survey also identified concerns with accessing broader community services beyond primary care, such as medical specialists, public health nurses, mental health counselors and psychotherapists, sexual health counselors and community based services. Survey participants were asked how satisfied they were with the health care services available to them in the Innisfil community. Of the 582 participants who replied, 52% were either dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with the health care services available to them. Concerns were most evident among senior and youth respondents: Senior respondents: Seniors emphasized their concerns with access to physician specialists, distances from hospital emergency departments and ancillary services such as labs. Youth respondents: Youth respondents identified the lack of accessible sexual health clinics. The nearest clinic is the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit Sexual Health Clinic in Barrie. The latest appointment for this clinic is usually 3:00-3:30, when many students are still in school. Students mentioned embarrassment at having to ask parents to drive them to the clinic and to take time off work/school to do so as there is no public transportation to Barrie. As well, many teens wish to keep these visits confidential which is harder to do when parents must drive them. In recent years Public Health support for adolescent programs other than broad based health promotion initiatives has decreased. For example, there is no longer a public health nurse with dedicated hours at Nantyr Shores Secondary School. d. Access to mental health supports, services and crisis care Mental health issues are influenced by the social determinants of health, such as lack of social supports, recreation opportunities, peer rejection and bullying and cultural discrimination (Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care, 2000). Prevention and health promotion efforts that address mental health in Innisfil are limited. Key respondents and focus groups repeatedly cited a lack of support services for mental health, particularly for adults and seniors. South Simcoe Police services respond to crisis mental health calls and transport patients to Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie for psychiatric assessments. Key informants with police services identified a need for mental health crisis support to ensure that there is appropriate follow-up for these police service calls. Respondents were not able to identify any in town supports, crisis workers or services aside from fee-for-service private practitioners such as a psychologist in Stroud. Youth in their focus groups expressed concerns about support for bullying, cyber-bullying, depression, anxiety, school related stress and alcohol and substance use. While youth do have access to NewPath Counseling services at the high school on a weekly basis, as well as the Youth Mobile Crisis Response Services (Kinark), the response may be limited by availability of crisis response workers whose mandate includes all of Simcoe County. The response is limited to individual cases and does not address broader determinants of mental health for youth. 25 Seniors in the focus groups disclosed concerns about hidden issues such as alcohol abuse, depression and anxiety, and for many, social isolation. Despite social and recreational activities that occur in retirement communities, some key informants reported that the majority of seniors rarely attend. Access to confidential and compassionate services that specifically address these social determinants of health continues to be problematic or non-existent. e. Need for greater connection and sense of community Strong neighborhoods make healthy communities (City of Toronto, 2004). Some citizens spoke about the social disconnection they felt due to the fact that neighborhoods are small and spread out across Innisfil; a lack of public transit to connect with others; lack of newcomer support; tensions between cottagers and full time residents; and lack of ethnic inclusivity. Numerous concerns were expressed about children walking along roads without sidewalks and lack of access to children’s after school recreational opportunities due to commuter parents. There is a perception that there is no “downtown” Innisfil or central meeting place that is a hub for citizens. f. Diversity and inclusivity for new comers Focus group participants and individual informants repeatedly commented on the lack of diversity and inclusive support for diverse racial or ethnic groups of which they were aware in Innisfil. None of the respondents expressed personal negativity towards other ethnic groups. Instead they shared examples of racist slurs, bullying and threats they observed in others. Some spoke of observing an “us versus them” mentality, with an expressed desire for Innisfil to remain white and ethnically homogeneous. Many participants denied awareness of different ethnic groups in Innisfil, although this is in contrast to members of the Innisfil Community Church which display flags of 57 different countries to show the diversity of their congregation. Alcona has been designated a primary settlement area for new immigrants within Innisfil which could lead to the attraction of new immigrants. Issues of lack of ethnic inclusivity may become more pronounced as new immigrants settle in Alcona. g. Employment opportunities Two distinct demographics emerged in discussion of employment opportunities: Commuters: With 82% of Innisfil labour force commuting to work outside Innisfil, many expressed a desire to find meaningful and appropriate work commensurate with their skills and abilities in Innisfil. Youth: Employment opportunities for youth were scarce and transportation to jobs often not available. Some respondents indicated that families leave town when their children reach teen years because of the transportation issues which impact recreation and employment for youth. While the “MacBus” shuttle picks up its young employees who work at McDonalds in Cookstown, this MacDonald’s is slated to close in February. Youth reported a lack of range of employment opportunities and lack of access to the Go Bus which would allow them to seek for employment in the surrounding area. In particular key respondents mentioned the 14-16 year old age group as being denied employment, and these youth experiencing boredom and social isolation outside of school hours. 26 VIII. Preliminary Recommendations In response to these identified core health priorities, the researchers, in collaboration with the Innisfil Community Health Committee developed the following list of recommendations for consideration by Town Council. They include: Table 5: Preliminary Recommendations Core Health Priority Recommendations Information about health and community services Access to Primary Care: family physicians, nurse Practitioners, Urgent Care and Walk In Clinics Access to other health care services – sexual health services Access to mental health promotion, supports, services and crisis care Connection and sense of community That the Town of Innisfil provide and maintain a registry of community services on its web site and advertise its availability in multiple sources, in particular the Town Newsletter That Town Council advocate with the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care and the North Simcoe Muskoka LHIN for the following: o That the cap on physician approvals to join Family Health Teams be lifted o Easier access/decreased bureaucracy related to residents being accepted on to Health Care Connect o Inclusion of Innisfil in the catchment area of the Barrie Community Health Centre Continue to support the efforts of and be an active member in the Barrie Area Physician Recruitment Taskforce (BAPR) Complete a feasibility study exploring the impact and efficiency of setting up a satellite clinic from the Georgian Nurse Practitioner clinic in Innisfil That the Town encourage the creation of a walk-in clinic in Innisfil staffed by Barrie area family physicians and other health care practitioners That the Town advocate with the Barrie urgent Care Clinic for longer evening/weekend hours Undertake a comprehensive assessment of the need for sexual health services in Innisfil and explore options for establishing a clinic for such services in the community or improve access to existing sexual health services Undertake a mental health and social services community assessment to ascertain present capacity to provide support services and mental health promotion with emphasis on the needs of seniors and youth Complete a feasibility study for shuttle buses from Alcona to Go Bus/ Train stations Research unique alternatives/options for public transportation 27 Diversity and inclusivity for new comers Expanded employment opportunities IX. Completion of sidewalks/bicycle paths along Innisfil Beach Road Support for the Library as the cultural hub of Innisfil Support the overall design of ‘healthy communities’ Encourage and harness the strong sense of volunteerism Continue to support events, community projects, and recreational programs such as summer camps Emphasize needs specific to youth in planning for accessible recreation and cultural activities Institute Heritage and Culture Appreciation Days Encourage expansion of newcomer awareness programs Education for Inclusivity in area elementary and high schools Continued municipal support for job fairs Study solutions to transportation issues for youth seeking employment Conclusion Through an innovative, multi-methods Healthy Communities Assessment approach this report captures a broad picture of the strengths and capacities of the Town of Innisfil as well as identifying health related needs and issues. The report has addresses not only access to health services, but also those social determinants of health that more broadly speak to quality of life and well-being. It echoes the World Health Organization’s definition of health as a “state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” (WHO, 1948). In conclusion, it is clear that those who live, work and play in Innisfil are both aware of and vocal about sharing their hopes, dreams and aspirations for a healthy community. As one participant said, “Health is more than a bus to the doctor’s office!” People recognize that their surroundings, who they interact with, how included they feel and how supported they are in being part of a community are as important to their sense of well-being as whether their physical health is attended to. Nevertheless for many respondents the concern about access to health services plays a large part in their overall concern about the community in which they live. The Town of Innisfil can provide much needed information about the multiple resources that are already available to its residents, while continuing to advocate for and encourage the creation of new and more accessible resources and services. The recommendations to Council, while preliminary, point the way to a comprehensive, forward-looking approach to ensuring that Innisfil become the healthiest community possible. 28 X. References Canadian Public Health Association (1996). Action statement for health promotion in Canada. Retrieved from http://www.cpha.ca/en/programs/policy/action.aspx Canadian Nurses Association. (2000) Fact Sheet on Primary Health Care. Retrieved from http://www2.cnaaiic.ca/CNA/documents/pdf/publications/FS02_Primary_Health_Care_Approach_June_2000_e.pdf City of Toronto - Strong Neighbourhoods Task Force (2004). Strong neighborhoods matter. Retrieved from http://www.toronto.ca/demographics/sntf/whystrongneighbourhoodsmatter.pdf Clark, M.J., Cary, S., Diemert, G., Ceballos, R., Sifuentes, M., Atteberry, I., Vue, F., Trieut, S. (2003) Involving communities in community health assessment. Public Health Nursing 20 (6) 456-463 Commonwealth Dept of Health and Aged Care -Mental Health and Special Programs Branch. (2000). Promotion, prevention and early intervention for mental health – a monograph. Retrieved from http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/A32F66862E8894ABCA25723E001752 29/$File/prommon.pdf Government of Ontario MOHLTC. (2010). Rural and northern health care report -executive summary. Retrieved from http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/public/programs/ruralnorthern/docs/exec_summary_rural_northern_ EN.pdf. Government of Ontario MOHLTC. (2010)Wait times. Retrieved from http://edrs.waittimes.net/EN/Data.aspx?LHIN=12&city=&pc=&dist=0&hosptID=0&str=&view=0&period =0&expand=0) Hancock, T., Minkler, M. (2005) Community health assessment or healthy community assessment: Who's community? Who's health? Who's assessment? (pp.139—156). In Minkler, M. (ed.) Community organizing and community building for health. New Brunswick, NJ: Rutgers University Press. Kamberelis, G., Dimitriadis, G. (2005). Focus groups: Strategic articulations of pedagogy, politics and inquiry. (pp887-907) In N.K. Denzin & Y.S. Lincoln (Eds), The Sage handbook of qualitative research (3rd ed., 907). Thousand Oaks, CA:Sage. McMurray, A. (2007). Community health and wellness: A socio-ecological approach. 3rd Edition. Sydney:Mosby Elsevier Minkler, M. (1990). Improving health through community mobilization. In: Glanz, K et al, (Eds.) Health behavior and health education. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 29 Sahud, A and Bartfay, WJ (2010). Assessing the Community (pp. 216-238). In Hitchcock, JE, Schubert, PE, Thomas, SA and Bartfay, WJ (Eds) Community Health Nursing: Caring in Action (1st Canadian Edition). Toronto, Ontario: Nelson Education Stats Can (2001) Health services access survey. Retrieved from http://www23.statcan.gc.ca/imdb/p2SV.pl?Function=getSurvey&SDDS=5002&lang=en&db=imdb&adm= 8&dis=2 Stats Canada (2011) Innisfil Census http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2011/as-sa/fogsspg/Facts-csd-eng.cfm?Lang=Eng&TAB=1&GK=CSD&GC=3543017 Town of Innisfil. (2010). Inspiring Innisfil 2020. Retrieved from http://www.town.innisfil.on.ca/inspiringinnisfil-2020 Town of Innisfil. (2010). Situational Analyses Report retrieved from http://www.town.innisfil.on.ca/uploads/files/SituationAnalysisInnisfil-2010.pdf World Health Organization (1948).Preamble to the constitution of the World Health Organization. Geneva: Switzerland. World Health Organization (1986) Ottawa Charter on Health Promotion. Geneva:WHO World Health Organization. (2009). Milestones in health promotion - Statements from global conferences. Retrieved from http://www.who.int/healthpromotion/milestones/en/index.html 30 Appendix A Ethics Approval OFFICE OF RESEARCH ETHICS (ORE) 5th Floor, York Research Tower, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto ON Canada M3J 1P3 Tel 416-736-5914, Fax 416-650-8197 www.research.yorku.ca Memo To: Grace Ross, School of Nursing From: Alison M. Collins-Mrakas, Sr. Manager and Policy Advisor, Research Ethics Issue Date: Thu Apr 19 2012 Expiry Date: Fri Apr 19 2013 RE: Innisfil-York Healthy Community Assessment Certificate #: e2012 - 086 I am writing to inform you that the Human Participants Review Sub-Committee has reviewed and approved the above project. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at: 416-736-5914 or via email at: [email protected]. Yours sincerely, Alison M. Collins-Mrakas M.Sc., LLM Sr. Manager and Policy Advisor, Office of Research Ethics 31 Appendix B Project Schedule A : Key Deliverables and Timelines SCHEDULE “A” – PROJECT Needs Assessment for Healthcare in the Town of Innisfil The Town of Innisfil is under-served in terms of health care services and providers but additional research and data to quantify the gap is necessary. This type of information is critical to effectively build a business case for additional services. As such, Council approved funding of up to $20,000 for the School of Nursing at York University to undertake a Needs Assessment of health care services in the Town of Innisfil. The final report will provide the Town with the necessary information to make informed decisions on next steps to improve the range, access and quality of health care in the community. Key Deliverables: The key deliverables for the project include: • Community Inventory: an inventory of existing services related to health care available within the community as well as human capacities and strengths of the community • An in-depth Needs Assessment: The final report will include: o A socio-economic profile of the community that encompasses social determinants of health; o A summary of research findings and methods used; and o Recommendations that could encompass building on community strengths and capacities as well as address gaps in health care delivery (short and long-term) The final report will include quantifiable data that can be incorporated into a business case to address identified needs in the community. Approach and Timelines: The following is a summary of the approach, key deliverables and timelines: 1. Meeting with project leads (Late December 2011 – early January 2012): Faculty Members from the School of Nursing and project team members will meet with key informants from the Town of Innisfil and area partners to review the scope, identify data availability, confirm timelines for meetings and deliverables and establish reporting relations. 2. Conduct an in-depth health needs assessment of the Town of Innisfil (January – July 2012): A mix of qualitative and quantitative research methods will be used to conduct the in-depth health needs assessment. a. Data Collection and Review: Review relevant documents and assessments that have been conducted in regards to the health of the Innisfil Community, such as census data, health reports, etc. b. Community Inventory of health services and community strengths and capacities: 32 An inventory of existing services available within the community and externally (services offered outside of Town boundaries that are readily available to residents) will be compiled. “Readily available” is intended to acknowledge that some services that may be located outside Town boundaries yet within sufficient geographic proximity to residents to be considered ‘accessible’. It is expected that “sufficient geographic proximity” will be further defined throughout the course of this project (e.g. through surveys). c. Interactive Assessment Methods: A variety of interactive assessment methods will be utilized throughout the course of the project. The particular means of gathering input, including survey design, will be further developed throughout the course of the project but are expected to include at a minimum: 1. Key Informant Interviews In collaboration with the project team from the Town, develop a list of key informants or stakeholders for one-on-one interviews or group meetings. The purpose of the interview is to understand the top community health issues affecting residents from the area as well as identify any existing community strengths and resources. 2. Focus Groups: In collaboration with the project team from the Town, target audiences for focus group research will be identified. The purpose of each discussion group is to identify healthcare, human service and quality of life issues affecting the target sub-populations. Key subpopulations will include, but are not exclusive to: • Youth (ages 16-30); and • Seniors 3. Surveys Administration of a survey(s) will be designed and used to help identify community strengths and capacities as well as the gaps in health care services in the community. Issues such as targets, geography and number of surveys will be further developed throughout the course of the project. Results will help answer key questions such as: • What services do residents access now? • What services do residents need? • How far do residents currently travel for service? • How far would residents travel to access services (and which ones)? • Are there any barriers to accessing services (e.g. transportation)? • What do residents believe is conducive to health? • What is the level of volunteerism in the community? • How does the community see itself with regards to their health and community wellness? 33 4. Compilation of qualitative and quantitative inputs Results of various research methods will be compiled and could also include a collection of community stories to help illustrate the gaps in services. 3. Analysis (July – September 2012) Analyze the data to establish the health needs of the Innisfil community and prepare a draft report for review and discussion with Town of Innisfil. 4. Final Report & Presentation (August - September 2012) Based on the findings, the report should recommend actions to address identified gaps. Recommendations for short and long-term action should be identified and could include possible programs that can then be developed and implemented with the School of Nursing and Faculty of Health of York University. The final report will include quantifiable data that can be used to build a business case to address identified needs in the community. The final report will be presented to the Town of Innisfil. Funding: Approved funding is for eligible expenses such as resources (e.g. office supplies, meeting space, etc.) that students would require to conduct the research process, a research assistant / coordinator, transportation costs for students to travel to / from Innisfil, hospitality costs and other related miscellaneous expenditures. This project would be built into one of the nursing courses that focuses on health and community assessments. Students would not be paid with this funding. A financial report showing how the investment from the Town of Innisfil was utilized will be included with the final report. Student Involvement: It is hereby acknowledged that student nurses in their third and fourth year of their undergraduate nursing program will participate in the collection of data as part of their NURS 4525 Community as Partner course. The focus of this course is on the roles, concepts, and theories related to promoting of communities using population focused approach. As part of this course, it is anticipated that the students will participate in data collection using assessment tools such as: a. Participant observation methods such as through windshield surveys b. Identification of existing services c. Interactive assessment methods such as key informant interviews, door to door surveys, small group assessments, focus groups, and collecting community stories. A clinical instructor and will be required to guide them in the collection of data, to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness. 34 Appendix C Questions asked of focus groups and key respondents Adapted from McMurray,A. (2007) Seniors 1. How long have you lived in Innisfil? 2. What does health mean to you? 3. If you could make a change in Innisfil, what would it be? 4. What do you like about another town/city that you wish you had in Innisfil? 5. What drew you to Innisfil? What keeps you here? 6. Do you work in Innisfil? If not, why? 7. Are you an active member of the community? If not, what would you like to participate in? 8. What services do you know of that exist in Innisfil? What services do you feel are required? 9. What events do you know of that tie all of the communities together? 10. What is the level of volunteerism in the community? 11. What is the cultural mix in Innisfil? 12. Are there large proportions of elderly or young families who will require particular health services either in the present or in future? 13. What are employment opportunities in Innisfil? 14. What services are available for the elderly? Youth? Infants? Babies? 15. What do you feel are the short, medium and long term priorities for Innisfil? Youth 1. What does health mean to you? 2. What are the main health issues that affect youth in Innisfil? 3. If you could make a change in Innisfil for youth, what would it be? 4. What do you like about another town/city that you wish you had in Innisfil? 5. Are you an active member of the community? What activities do you participate in? If not, what would you like to participate in? 6. What health or social services do you know of that exist in Innisfil? 7. What services do you feel are required? 8. Do you know of services but are not able to access them? For what reason? 9. Do you volunteer in in the community? 10. What is the cultural mix in Innisfil? 11. What are employment opportunities for youth in Innisfil? 12. What do you feel are the short, medium and long term priorities for Innisfil? Key Informants 1. How long have you worked/lived or had knowledge of the issues affecting Innisfil? 2. What is your role (if a service provider, community leader etc)? 3. What does a healthy community look like to you? Do you think Innisfil is a healthy community? 35 4. What do you think are the main health issues affecting residents of Innisfil? 5. If you in your present role could make a change with regard to the health of residents in Innisfil what would it be? 6. What services do you know of that exist in Innisfil? What services do you think are required? 7. What ties the communities together? (Cookstown, Alcona, Stroud, Gilford etc.) 8. What is the cultural mix in Innisfil? 9. What are the employment opportunities in Innisfil? How do you feel this has an impact on the health of the community and its residents? 10. Are there large portions of elderly or young families who will require particular health services either in the present or in the future? 11. What services are available for the elderly, youth, and infants? 12. What do you feel are the short, medium, and long term priorities for health services/interventions for Innisfil? 13. Can you direct us to, or provide copies of health related documents or previous health related surveys that include the Town of Innisfil? 14. What other key informants do you suggest we connect with? 15. Are there any other issues that we have not addressed? 36 Appendix D Summary of Focus Group Responses Summary of Focus Group Responses TYPE and NUMBER OF FOCUS GROUPS Youth (5 focus groups) Seniors (5 focus groups) Professionals working with youth (1 focus group) IDENTIFIED HEALTH ISSUES Substance use Drug use encouraged by parents Smoking Mental health issues depression, anxiety, stress Sexual health – pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases; inclusivity of sexual orientation Lack of sidewalks/bike paths along Innisfil Beach Rd Lack of ethnic inclusivity Mental health issues – e.g. Alzheimer’s Disease, depression, Poverty Mobility issues Gambling Alcoholism Domestic abuse Social isolation Substance abuse – multiple drugs Weekend binge drinking Some indicated that substance use is supported by parents Sexual health- sexual orientation confusion; unprotected sex, students avoid sex health clinics in Barrie as IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS/ CAPACITY Active volunteering in school/ community YMCA Summer camps Guidance counselors Church youth groups for religious youth Good social supports at Sandycove Acres Multiple activities Community watches out for each other Many have cars Active volunteering Community events such as art shows, Summerfest WHAT IS NEEDED TO ADDRESS THE HEALTH ISSUES Young adult programs at the library Public transportation for access to jobs, recreation and health services Easier access to sexual, mental health and addiction services More job opportunities for youth More recreation opportunities for youth More supportive teachers More consultation with the community Lower cost for YMCA, other recreational activities More family doctors More accessible doctors Mental health services – psychotherapists, social workers Transportation for those who don’t drive Support groups for seniors More recreational ,physical activities A nursing home or intermediary care home More affordable YMCA More affordable housing options Community resource booklet Kinark Youth Mobile Crisis team Crisis Services Mental health centre NewPath comes to Addiction services school X1/week Sexual health clinic CMHA sporadic visits Naturopathic doctor to school Anger management groups Diversion programs Parent support groups More summer employment for youth Transportation – get youth to the Go Bus 37 Health Unit (1 Focus Group) parents need to drive them Mental health – anxiety, depression, stress, family issues, eating disorders lack of access to health professionals Racism/ ethnic lack of inclusivity Boredom, lack of employment • Families with teens often move away due to lack of services • Latch key kids • People don’t know what’s out there • Lack of services for 0-6 and youth • Health Dental bus does not serve Innisfil • Little social connectivity especially In disparate neighborhoods • Some neighborhoods have more services than others • Safety issues HWY 27 and 89 and lack of sidewalks along Innisfil Beach Rd • Lack of newcomer support • Cottagers vs residents tensions • tobacco use among adults • substance use • lack of breastfeeding support • mental health issues • Poverty – rental housing • Couch surfing teens A youth centre with counselors and games room Adult learning centre Reduce stigma around mental illness and FAS • • • • • • • • • • • health Unit Library Welcome wagon Police, Fire, Ambulance YMCA Parks and recreation Meals on Wheels Children’s Aid Go Bus – limited to Hwy 11 Physiotherapists and Registered Massage Therapists Victorian Order of Nurses and Community care Access Centres (CCAC) home visits • • • • • • • • • • • • Need access to hub of community services in a wellness centre More access to family doctors, OHIP covered services Developmental services Mental health services Increased awareness of what is out there Connectivity – centralized programs Infrastructure planning in the official plan for bike lanes, densification Regulated childcare diagnostics/labs transportation for access to health services, employment, and recreation, and social supports Increased support services for 0-6 age group- (Early years centres, screening, breastfeeding support) Support for youth – mental and sexual health and substance use 38 Appendix E Summary of Key Informant Interviews Responses Key Informants Residents, Business owners City Staff Councillors IDENTIFIED HEALTH ISSUES Commuters – children and teens unsupervised after school (in library); parents cannot attend afterschool health programs Lack of sidewalks/bike paths along Innisfil Beach Rd Transportation issues– lack of sidewalks in Alcona; lack of access for youth to get to jobs; need for crosswalk in Cookstown 14-16 year olds at particular risk for boredom sexual health – teen pregnancy, STIs low levels of physical education for younger kids Smoking among adults Lack of accessibility to doctors because of distance or lack of doctors accepting new patients Cap on number of doctors who can join the family health team in Barrie No walk in clinic in town Drug addictions among adults not addressed; no methadone clinic Lack of accessible specialty clinics (diabetes, MS, dermatologist) Lack of services for the disabled Lack of awareness of services that are in Innisfil Mental health issues – police are called to deal with mental health issues; attempted suicides; lack of IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS/ CAPACITY IDENTIFIED NEEDS Multiple secondary services community organizations starting to work together to provide services flu shot clinics festivals and community projects Innisfil Arts, Culture and Heritage councilformed trying to develop tourism in area Values, Influences and Peers program through Police NewPath counselling services in the high school Kinark Youth Mobile Crisis Response Service Innisfil Beach Park Alcona is now a primary settlement area the YMCA the Library Skate park in Stroud Tanger Outlet Mall in Cookstown Go Bus stop in Stroud and train to stop there in future support services for those living in poverty through the church Major developments such as Friday Harbour and Smart Centres could provide potential jobs developed Meals on Wheels for Seniors Need more family doctors who accept patients nearby Health services/social resources may be available but people not aware of them More opportunities for youth recreation: need theatre, bowling alley YMCA has supports for low income, yet many still find the cost prohibitive Need a “gathering place” in town for social supports Sexual health programs/clinic for teens Substance Abuse treatment programs More family doctors, NPs or walk in clinics and labs easily accessed Better access to specialists More services for disabled Additional Mental health services reinstate PAL program in schools Town leadership to make Innisfil “smoke-free” 39 Professional Key Informants Health and Education psychotherapists in community Communities disjointed and have small town mentality; HWY400 runs through Innisfil; Many cottagers - gives sense of not being part of the town No homeless shelter or response to homelessness Most motor vehicle collisions involve alcohol; Lack of partnership with police and mental health workers for follow up Lack of accessible recreational activities for youth leading to increased drug addiction/alcohol misuse; some parents provide alcohol for their kids so they are drinking at home Split between South Lake Hospital and RVH Barrie- no sharing of health records – ambulance may take you to either Lack of affordable rental housing Lack of higher paying jobs in Innisfil so no commute; Lack of employment opportunities; no jobs for teens Only private home daycare Water services lacking for some– on septic in Gilford; well water poorer quality; must drive to get water tested Limited healthy food options – fast food No nearby facilities for lab work/xrays No prenatal services Mothercare program moving to Stroud Family docs want to have hospital privileges, so setting Encourage more building of affordable housing Town Response to homelessness More employment opportunities for youth or transportation to jobs nearby Higher paying jobs to encourage commuters to work in Innisfil Facility Day Care Encourage better restaurants for higher quality food access Barrie Community Health Centre is moving south adjacent to Urgent Care Clinic Nov 1. Diabetes Education, Lung Health clinic Suggest a bus from Alcona to Highway 11 Suggestions for Dr’s office in Alcona (old Hydro building) 40 up in Innisfil is a deterrent Single young doctors not drawn to the area due to lack of social opportunities Suitable space is missing in Alcona for new doctors: Doctors would prefer Stroud as closer to Highway 11 with greater accessibility (Go bus station) Public transportation to doctors is missing Little awareness of needs of youth (substance abuse, mental health issues or sexual health issues) Latch key kids – children of commuters neglected Lack of sidewalks and bike paths along Innisfil Beach Rd teens sexual health poverty of single moms substance abuse mental health issues child development and parenting issues; FAS; lack of social cohesion among neighbourhoods Part of the northern LIHN but is forgotten area and Young Mothers and prenatal care. North Innisfil Services to Seniors program Perception that seniors are well served by with either owning their own car, Red Cross Volunteers, or shuttle bus Huronia Urgent Care Clinic also provides X-rays, cardiograms, casting and stitches. With planned Barrie CHC next door could be the new Innisfil “hospital” Over 75 doctors are part of Family health team organization in Barrie and Dr. Michael Faraday, CEO is aware of needs of Innisfil New clinic to be built at south end of Barrie Health unit offers home visits, safe food and water, health promotion programs, family health, health connection it is only a 15 minute drive to the new CHC, close for North Innisfil Seniors Innisfil residents are healthier than they think they are There is an expanding Barrie Family Medicine Residency Program from Toronto East General Hospital, which hopefully will lure residents to stay in the area Physician Assistants can now be hired. Unlike NPs only act to assist the physician with medical acts Land bequeathed for hospital by Cortel group (if developed in 20 years) A NP satellite may be a good option Canadian Index of Wellbeing (2012)discusses the needs of latch-key kids and how to address this issue Need family health teams and CHC with more than a medical model 41 Appendix F Survey Results analysis provided by Christine Kurtz Landy RN PhD Innisfil Community Assessment RESULTS The survey was administered to a total of 708 individuals over the summer months of 2012, either online or using the paper survey. Eighty-one percent of these surveys were completed and 19% were missing some data. All the surveys were included in the analysis. Table 1: Age of Participants Age in Years n Percent % < 19 83 11.7 20 to 55 154 21.8 56 to 69 199 28.1 70 to 79 151 21.3 > 80 44 6.2 Total 631 89.1 unknown 77 10.9 708 100.0 Total With regard to demographic data, 63.4% (n=449) of participants were female, 27.5 % (n=195) were male and 9% (n=64) did not identify their sex. The ages of participants are listed Table 1. The majority of participants had combined household incomes over $30,000 per year. As shown in Table 2, just over 20% of participants reported Table 2: Gross Combined Household Income combined household Income Level n Percent % less than $5,000 4 0.6 $5,000 to $9,999 2 0.3 $10,000 to $14,999 6 0.8 $15,000 to $19,999 13 1.8 whereas only 3.5% $20,000 to $29,999 47 6.6 reported combined $30,000 to $49,999 114 16.1 $50,000 to $79,999 117 16.5 household incomes $80,000 to $99,999 54 7.6 less than $20,000 $100,000 to $149,999 63 8.9 $150,000 + 27 3.8 Prefer not to answer 150 21.2 Missing data 111 15.7 Total 708 100.0 incomes over $100,000 per year per year. Thirtyseven percent of (n=261) participants 1 42 Innisfil Community Assessment did not answer the question. Participants reported their place of residence by Innisfil neighborhood (see Table 3). Eighty-four percent (n=600) of survey respondents stated they lived in an Innisfil neighborhood year round; 5.1% (N=36) stated that they did not. Ten percent (n=72) did not answer this survey question. Table 3: Innisfil Place of Residence Innisfil Neighborhoods n Percent % Alcona 230 32.5 Big Bay Point 31 4.4 Churchill 16 2.3 Cookstown 24 3.4 Fennell’s Corner 2 0.3 Gilford 13 1.8 Innisfil Heights 6 .8 Lefroy-Belle Ewart 33 4.7 Other rural areas in Innisfil 9 1.3 Other, please specify... 18 2.5 Sandy Cove area (other than retirement community) 20 2.8 Sandycove Acres Retirement Community 200 28.2 Stroud 38 5.4 Missing 68 9.6 Total 708 100.0 Participants were asked if they had any dependents for whom they were responsible. Forty-seven percent (n= 331) reported having no dependents; 22% (157) reported having dependent children under the age of 18 years; 11% (n=76) 2 43 Innisfil Community Assessment reported having responsibility for dependent adults; and 10% (n=71) reported having responsibility for dependent elderly family members. Two percent preferred not to say whether they had dependents and another 2% reported having dependents such as pets. Participants were asked about their main form of transportation. The Table 4: Respondents’ Main Form of Transportation Method of Transportation n Percent (%) 594 83.9 Public transportation 1 0.1 Taxi 1 0.1 Volunteer driver (friend, family) 25 3.5 Volunteer driver from an agency (e.g. Red Cross) 2 0.3 Other 10 1.4 Missing 75 10.6 Total 708 100.0 Have use of a car or other vehicle majority reported having use of a car (see Table 4). Only 0.1% relied on public transportation. When examining main form of transportation by age group, 3% (7/248) of participants 55 years and under group, 5% (9/199) of participants in the 56 to 69 year group, 6% (9/151) of participants in the 70 to 79 year age group and 4.5% (2/44) of participants in the over 80 years age group relied on volunteer drivers. Participants were asked if they had a family physician. Of participants who answered the question 87% (n=540) had family physicians and 13% (n=79) did 3 44 Innisfil Community Assessment not. Whether participants had a family physician or not was also examined by place of residence in Innisfil communities (See Table 5). Table 5: Number and percent of participants with a family physician in each of the Innisfil neighborhoods. Do you have a family doctor? Missing data n(%) No n(%) Total Yes n(%) Innisfil Neighborhood Alcona 5(2%) 42(18%) 183(80%) 230 Big Bay Point 2(6%) 3(10%) 26(84%) 31 Churchill 0 2(12%) 14(88%) 16 Cookstown 0 4(17%) 20(83%) 24 Fennell’s Corner 0 0 2(100%) 2 1(7%) 1(7%) 11(85%) 13 Innisfil Heights 0 2(34%) 4(66%) 6 Lefroy-Belle Ewart 0 2(6%) 31(94%) 33 Sandy Cove area (other than retirement community) 0 2(10%) 18(90%) 20 Sandycove Acres Retirement Community 9(4%) 11(6%) 180(90%) 200 Stroud 2 (5%) 4(10%) 32 (84%) 38 0 2(12%) 7(78%) 9 2(11%) 4(22%) 12(67%) 18 Gilford Other rural areas in Innisfil Other, missing 68 sub Total Total 79(13%) 540( 87%) 619 89 708 445 Innisfil Community Assessment Participants were asked to identify the location of their family physician (see Table 6). Forty percent reported their family physicians were located in Barrie followed by 8.3% in Toronto. Single participants reported travelling as far as Parry Sound, Durham and Hamilton to see their family physician (see Figure 1). Table 6: Participants’ report of location of family their doctor n Percent % Barrie 285 40.3 Innisfil 38 5.4 Newmarket 42 5.9 Toronto 59 8.3 Brampton and area 27 3.8 Bradford 22 3 9 1 10 1 Mississauga 8 1 Markham/Stouffville 8 1 38 5 subtotal 539 76 No family physician 79 11 90 13 708 100.0 Vaughan/Richmond Hill Alliston/Angus Other missing Total Participants were asked why they did not have a family physician. They provided the following reasons: 22 stated that the family physicians in their area were not taking new patients; 25 stated there were no family physicians in their area; 13 stated their family physician had moved out of the area or retired; 4 had not tried to contact a family physician. 546 Innisfil Community Assessment Figure 1: Participants’ reports of location of their family physicians Image from caasco.com Participants were asked to rate their overall health. Fifty-five percent (n=347) of participants who responded rated their overall health as very good or excellent; 30% (n=187) rated their overall health as good and 15.5% (n=97) rated their health as fair or poor. Participants’ overall health ratings were further examined by age group (see Table 7). 647 Innisfil Community Assessment Table 7: Participants’ Self Report of Overall Health by Age Group Missing Data Excellent Very Good Good Fair Poor n(%) n(%) n(%) n(%) n(%) n(%) 6(7.2%) 26(31%) 34 (41%) 13(15.7) 3(3.6%) 1(1.2) 20 to 55 2(1.3) 25(16.2) 62(40.3) 43(27.9) 16(10.4) 6(3.9) 56 to 69 2(1.0) 32(16.1) 67(33.7) 65(32.7) 25(12.6) 8(4) 70 to 79 1(0.7) 20(13.2) 50 (33.1) 49(32.5) 27(17.9) 4(2.6) > 80 2(4.5) 3(6.8) 17(38.6) 15(34.1) 6(13.6) 1(2.3) 13 (2.1) 106(16.8) 230 (36.5) 185(29.3) 77(12.2) 20(3.2) Age in Years < 19 Total Health Services Overall Satisfaction with Health Services: Participants were asked how satisfied they were with the health care services available to them in the Innisfil community. Of the 582 participants who replied, 4% (n=28) were very satified, 26% (n=184) were satisfied, 31% (n=221) were dissatisfied and 21% (n=149) were very dissatisfied. Health Service Use: Eighty-two percent (See Table 8) of participants reported needing routine healthcare for themselves or a family member in the past 12 months. Doctors offices followed by walk-in clinics were contacted most often when care was needed (see Table 9).Telehealth and home care agencies were used least often. 78 4 Innisfil Community Assessment Table 8: Health services needed for routine or on-going care in the past 12 months? (e.g. well baby care, annual check ups, etc) Health Service Need n Percent % No 110 18% Yes 505 82% Total 615 100% Missing data 93 Table 9: Health service contacted most often in the past 12 months when routine or ongoing care for yourself or a family member was needed Health Services n Percent % 3 1 347 68 Emergency room 9 2 Home health care agency 2 0.5 Hospital 14 3 Medical specialist such as a gastroenterologist, obstetrician, or surgeon 31 6 Mental health specialist (e.g. psychiatrist, mental health nurse) 4 1 Nurse Practitioner 6 1 Telephone health line (e.g. Telehealth, Your Health Connection) 1 0.1 Walk-in clinic 56 11 Other 38 7 Total 511 100 Missing data 197 Total 708 Community Care Access Centre Doctor's office 849 Innisfil Community Assessment Difficulty accessing health care: Most participants reported that it was ’not at all’ or ‘not very difficult’ to access routine health services for their ongoing or routine health care (See Table 10). Table 10: Difficulty accessing care for ongoing and routine health care in the past 12 months Difficulty accessing care n Percent % Not at all difficult 155 30 Not very difficult 125 25 Somewhat difficult 164 32 Very difficult 65 13 509 100 total Missing data 199 Total 708 Immediate health care access: Participants were asked which health services they used when they required immediate care for themselves or a family member (See Table 11). Three hundred and sixty-nine participants reported Table 11: Health services accessed for immediate health care for self or family member in the past 12 months Health care n Percent % Emergency room 51 14 Community health centre 1 0.2 Doctor’s office 99 27 Hospital 17 5 Nurse Practitioner 1 0.2 Walk-in clinic 171 46 Other 28 8 Total 369 100% 9 50 Innisfil Community Assessment accessing care for immediate health service needs, i.e., 46% accessed walk-in clinics, 27% went to their doctors’ offices and 14% went to the emergency department. Forty-one percent had no or very little difficulty accessing immediate healthcare for themselves or their family member. However 57% reported it was somewhat or very difficult to access immediate health care and 2% could not or did not access immediate care when needed (See Table 12). Table 12: Difficulty accessing immediate care for self or family in the past 12 months Difficulty level n percent % Not at all difficult 63 17 Not very difficult 89 24 Somewhat difficult 155 42 Very difficult 55 15 I could not or did not access 8 2 370 100 Total Participants reported several different reasons for having difficulties accessing immediately needed health care (see Table 13). Twelve percent of participants reported having no problems getting immediate health care. However 21% complained that they waited too long for care in the waiting room; 16% waited too long for an appointment; 15.5% had problems getting an appointment; 10.7% stated that the service they needed was not available in the community; and 6.5% shared that they had transportation problems. 10 51 Innisfil Community Assessment Table 13: Participants’ difficulties accessing immediately needed health services for self or family member Difficulties experienced n Percent % No difficulties 88 12.4 Contacting a physician 60 8.4 Contacting another health care professional (NP, 22 3.1 Psychologist) Getting an appointment 110 15.5 No family doctor 41 5.8 Wait too long for an appointment 114 16.1 Waiting to too long in waiting room 147 20.8 Service not available at time needed 59 8.3 Service not available in area 76 10.7 Transportation problem 46 6.5 Language problem 3 0.4 Did not know where to go 24 3.4 Childcare needed in order to access service 8 1.1 Could not afford the service 8 1.1 Service might not meet needs 5 0.7 Unable to leave house because of health problem 7 1.0 Past experiences with health/social service 7 1.0 providers Access to wanted health services over the past 12 months: Participants reported several health services they wanted to access, but were unable to access over the previous 12 months. These included access to medical specialists such as psychiatrists, obstetricians and gastroenterologists. In addition, participants reported lack of access to family physicians, urgent care and public health nurses over this time period (See Table 14). 11 52 Innisfil Community Assessment Table 14: Service needed but were not accessible Services n Able to access services required 230 Family doctor 196 Urgent care 60 Walk-in clinic 149 Medical specialists 44 Telephone help line 6 Public Health Nurse 6 Mental Health Specialist (Psychiatrist, 16 mental health nurse) Percent % 33 28 9 21 6 0.8 0.8 2.3 Participants were also asked about other health and social service needs over Table 15: Other support services respondents required in the last 12 months Support services n Percent % Dentist 417 58.9 Pharmacist 383 54.1 Chiropractor 120 16.9 Physiotherapist 118 16.7 Counselor 54 7.6 Home care specialist (RN, PT, OT) 44 6.2 Chiropodist 36 5.1 Nutritionist (RD) 36 5.1 Naturopathic doctor 34 4.8 Childcare 23 3.2 Financial services/support 21 3.0 Education and employment services 21 3.0 Home support worker 17 2.4 Respite care 13 1.8 Crisis phone line 11 1.6 Bereavement services 7 1.0 Food bank 7 1.0 Alcoholics Anonympus 6 0.8 Victim Services 1 0.1 Other 39 5.5 12 53 Innisfil Community Assessment the past 12 months. A large number of participants reported needing the services of dentists, pharmacist, chiropractors and physiotherapists among other services (See Table 15). Health Services Information Seventy-eight percent (n=549) of participants reported that they required health information in the past 12 months for themselves or a family member. When asked where they obtained their information about health services in the Innisfil community, just over 55% reported that they got their health services information from friends, neighbors and family, 36% indicated they received information about health services from the newspaper and 22% got information from the telephone book and yellow pages (See Table 16). Table 16: Sources of health services information Information Sources Neighbours, Friends and Family Newspaper Phone Book/ Yellow Pages Local Television Town Newsletter Town Website Local Library Local Church Facebook /Twitter Other n 390 257 158 87 67 49 39 17 20 95 Percent % 55.1 36.3 22.3 12.3 9.5 6.9 5.5 2.4 2.8 13.4 In addition most participants reported that they preferred to get health services information from the newspaper, the town newspaper and from family, friends and neighbors (See Table 17). 13 54 Innisfil Community Assessment Table 17: Preferred sources of health services information Preferred Information Source Newspaper Town Newspaper Local Television Neighbours, Friends and Family Phone Book/ Yellow Pages Local Library Facebook and Twitter Local Church Other N 362 265 227 202 156 114 73 41 75 Percent % 51.1 37.4 32.1 28.5 22 16.1 10.3 5.8 10.6 Future Health Services Models Participants were asked to identify which models of care they would use if they were available in Innisfil. The four models they were most likely to use were Nurse Practitioners (67%), urgent care or walk-in clinics (62%), Family practice teams (52%) and Community Health Centres (41%)(see Table 18). 14 55 Innisfil Community Assessment Table 18: Future health service delivery models that participants would use Health Care Professionals/Models n Percent % Nurse Practitioners (OHIP covered) 472 67 Urgent care or walk-in clinic 439 62 Family practice team 367 52 Community health centre funded by the Province 292 41 Women's health clinic 237 34 Home visiting by health practitioners 187 26.4 Visiting physicians 143 20 Medical students in training 141 20 Men's health clinic 115 16 Alternative care practitioners (e.g. naturopath, midwife, doula, homeopath). 116 16 Mobile health bus 88 12 Other, please specify... 10 1 Participants were invited to elaborate on what health services the community needs. Four hundred and fifty-one of the participants took this opportunity to elaborate. The vast majority shared that Innisfil and the region require more family physicians, walk-in clinics and urgent care clinics. Some stated they would like a ‘one stop service’ for health that would also include laboratory services, x-ray and services such as physiotherapy. 15 56 Appendix G DRAFT List of Community and Social Services Healthy Community Inventory for Innisfil DRAFT – November 22, 2012 Category Business Childcare Bouncing Ball Cooperative Day Nursery School Description Childcare services Contact information 2230 Victoria St 705-436-1569; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Chiropractic / Massage / Acupuncture Alcona Chiropractic 1318 7th Line, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4H2, Phone: 705-431-0505 Chiropractic / Massage / Acupuncture Cookstown Chiropractic & Massage Therapy 29-2 Queen Street, Cookstown, Ontario L0L 1L0, Phone: 705-4588288 Chiropractic / Massage / Acupuncture Stroud Chiropractic Clinic 207 Glenn Avenue, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1C3, Phone: 705-436-5361 Chiropractic / Massage / Acupuncture Innisfil Family Chiropractic and Acupuncture Centre 1070 Innisfil Beach Road, Unit 6, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4T9, Phone: 705436-3300 Chiropractic / Massage / Acupuncture Alcona Chiropractic Public Health Services-Chiropractor 3 - 896 Innisfil Beach Rd 705-4310505; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Chiropractic / Massage / Acupuncture Cookstown Chiropractic & Massage Therapy Chiropractic clinic and massage therapy 2-29 Queen St 705-458-8288; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Chiropractic / Massage / Acupuncture Innisfil Family Chiropractic & Acupuncture Centre Chiropractic, acupuncture 6-1070 Innisfil Beach Rd 705-4363300; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Draft as of November 22, 2012 Page 57 Category Chiropractic / Massage / Acupuncture Business Stroud Chiropractic Clinic Counselling Services Abuse Recovery Counselling Service Counselling Services Counselling Services Description Public Health Services-Chiropractor Contact information 207 Glenn Ave 705-436-5361; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Phone: 705-792-0799 Catholic Family Services of Simcoe County Offers family, martial, group and individual counselling and family life education Credit Counselling Services of Simcoe County Consumer debt counselling and budget planning services Phone: 705-726-2503 ext. 105 Phone: 705-726-2705 Dental Applewood Dental 1491 Innisfil Beach Road, Unit 1, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4B2, Phone: 705436-5777 Dental Alcona Dental 2089 Thompson Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1T1, Phone: 705-4310084 Dental Village Market Dental Office 8056 Yonge Street, Unit 9/10, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1L6, Phone: 705-4311515 Dental Stroud Dental 7975 Yonge Street, Unit 10, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1L2, Phone: 705-4366527 Dental Sandycove Dental Clinic 902 Lockhart Road, Innisfil, L9S 4V2, Phone: 705-431-7235 Dental Innisfil Dental Centre 1070 Innisfil Road, Unit 10, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4T9, Phone: 705-4363136 Draft as of November 22, 2012 Page 58 Category Business Dental Innisfil Denture Clinic 985 Innisfil Beach Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 2B5, Phone: 705-4361886 Dental Just a Dental Cleaning 2074 Forest Valley Dr. Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4A5, Phone: 705-4312777 Dental Alcona Dental Dental Dr. Bruce Dickinson DDS Dental Dr. L. R. Magee, DDS Dental Office Dental Dr. Peter Weleff Dental Office Dental Professional Dental Care Dental Village Market Dental Office Doctor Bedard, Andre Valentin Doctor Mossman, Kerstin Doctor Stewart, Christine Elizabeth Draft as of November 22, 2012 Description Contact information Dentist office 2089 Thompson St 705-431-0084; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Health Dental services 10 - 1070 Innisfil Beach Rd 705-4363136; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Health Dental services 13 - 7975 Yonge St 705-436-4412; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Dentist office 34 Queen St 705-458-9177; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Dentist 821 Innisfil Beach Rd 705-431-5111; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Health Dental Services 15 - 8056 Yonge St 705-431-1515; Employees: 5-9 Municipality: Innisfil Doctor Suite 1, 7869 Yonge Street, Innisfil, ON; Tel: (705) 436-2251 Doctor BCHC on Huronia Street; Tel: (705) 431-9245 Doctor Stroud Medical Centre, 1-7869 Yonge Street, Innisfil, ON; Tel: (705) 4362251 Page 59 Category Business Doctor's Office / Medical Clinic Barrie Community Health Centre/North Innisfil Site (Sandy Cove) Doctor's Office / Medical Clinic Description Medical Centre Stroud Medical Centre Health Medical Services Help Lines Elder Abuse within a Facility: Retirement Home (ORCA) Help Lines Health Connection Simcoe Muskoka County District Health Unit Help Lines Long Term Care Action Line Help Lines Mental Health and Addiction Services Simcoe County 1-7869 Yonge St. 705-436-2251; Employees: 10-19 Municipality: Innisfil Information on protecting and promoting health and preventing disease Phone: 705-721-7520 Phone: 1-866-434-0144 Single point access to mental health related information and assistance. Phone: 705-728-5044 Help Lines Seniors' INFO Line Help Lines Smokers Helpline Telecare - Distress Line Friendly and confidential listeners Help Lines Telehealth Ontario Free confidential telephone service to get health advice and information from a RN Help Lines Victim Support LineMinistry of the Attorney General Draft as of November 22, 2012 BCHC on Huronia Street; Tel: (705) 431-9245 Phone: 1-800-361-7254 Provides information and referrals on federal, provincial and municipal services Help Lines Contact information Phone: 1-888-910-1999 Phone: 1-877-513-5333 Phone: 705-726-7922 Phone: 1-866-797-0000 Phone: 1-888-579-2888 Page 60 Category Business Housing Bob Rumball Home for the Deaf Housing Coleman Care Centre 140 Cundles Road West, Barrie, Ontario L4N 9X8, Phone: 705-7268691 Housing Grove Park Home 234 Cook Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 4H5, Phone: 705-726-1003 Housing IOOF Seniors Home Inc. 10 Brooks Street, Barrie, Ontario L4N 5L3, Phone: 705-728-2389 Housing Leisureworld Caregiving Centre 130 Owen Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 3H7, Phone: 705-726-8621, Website: www.leisureworld.ca Housing Mill Creek Care Centre 286 Hurst Drive, Barrie, Ontario L4N 0Z3, Phone: 705-719-6222, Website: www.millcreekcarecentre.ca Housing Roberta Place 503 Essa Road, Barrie, Ontario L4N 9E4, Phone: 705-733-3231, Website: www.jarlette.com Housing Victoria Village Manor 78 Ross Street, Barrie, Ontario L4N 1G3, Phone: 705-728-3456, Website: www.victoriavillage.ca Housing Woods Park Care Centre 110 Lillian Crescent, Barrie, Ontario L4N 5H7, Phone: 705-739-6881, Website: www.woodspark.on.ca Draft as of November 22, 2012 Description Contact information 1 Royal Parkside Drive, Barrie, Ontario L4M 0C4, Phone: 705-7196700, Website: www.bobrumball.org Page 61 Category Business Housing Ontario Retirement Communities Association - ORCA Description ORCA is a non-profit organization that sets standards, inspects, and accredits retirement residences in Ontario. Operates a toll-free hotline that anyone in Ontario can call to get help resolving a complaint about any retirement residence or to get information about their care options Contact information Phone: 1-888-263-5556 Housing Barrie Manor Retirement Residence 340 Blake Street, Ontario L4M 1L3, Phone: 705-722-3611, Website: www.barriemanor.ca Housing Barrington Retirement Residence 450 Yonge Street, Barrie, Ontario L4N 4E2, Phone: 705-735-3235, Website: www.chartwellreit.ca Housing Breannes for Seniors 516 Grove Street East, Barrie, Ontario L4M 5Z2, Phone: 705-7288472 Housing M and M Residence for Seniors 126 Herrell Street, Barrie, Ontario L4N 6V1, Phone: 705-737-3330 Housing Mulcaster Mews 130 Mulcaster Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 3M9, Phone: 705-725-9119, Website: www.mulcastermews.webs.com Housing Roberta Place Retirement Lodge Inc. 489 Essa Road, Barrie, Ontario L4N 9E4, Phone: 705-728-2900, Website: www.jarlette.com Housing Waterford Retirement Community 132 Edgehill Drive, Barrie, Ontario L4N 1M1, Phone: 705-792-2442, Website: www.waterfordretirement.com Draft as of November 22, 2012 Page 62 Category Business Description Contact information Housing Whispering Pines Residence Housing With Open Arms 288 Codrington Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 1S8, Phone: 705-7375215 Housing Collier Place 108 Collier Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 5R5 Housing IOOF Seniors Citizen Home Inc. - Heritage Place Housing Simcoe County Social Housing Phone: 705-725-7215, Website: www.simcoe.ca Housing St. Mary's Seniors Residence Barrie Inc. 75 Amelia Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 6K7, Phone: 705-739-6852 Housing Tollendale Village 274 Hurst Drive, Barrie, Ontario L4N 0Z3, Phone: 705-722-0469, Website: www.tollendalevillage.ca Housing Simcoe Terrace Retirement Centre 44 Donald Street, Barrie, Ontario L4N 1E3, Phone: 705-722-5750, Website: www.simcoeterrace.com Optometrist Innisfil Eye Care 7975 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1L2, Phone: 705-431-2393 140 Letitia Street, Barrie, Ontario L4N 1P5, Phone: 705-722-4200, Website: www.residenceallegro.com Supportive housing-dining services, personal care, laundry, housekeeping, 24 hour staffing and emergency response Optometrist and eyewear store Phone: 705-728-2389, Website: www.ioof.com Optometrist Alcona Optical 4 - 1070 Innisfil Beach Rd 705-4311332; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Pharmacy Rexall Pharma Plus 7975 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1L2, Phone: 705-436-4848 Draft as of November 22, 2012 Page 63 Category Business Pharmacy Pharmasave Cookstown 52 Queen Street, Unit 2, Cookstown, Ontario L0L 1L0, Phone: 705-4581292 Pharmacy Stroud Medical Pharmacy 7869 Yonge Street, Unit 2, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1K8, Phone: 705-4366952 Physiotherapy Innisfil PhysiotherapyRehab 7975 Yonge Street, Unit 1, Innisfil, Ontario Phone: 705-431-4842 Recreation Services Innisfil Public LibraryLakeshore Branch 967 Innisfil Beach Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1V3, Phone: 705-4317410, Website: www.innisfil.library.on.ca Recreation Services Innisfil Public LibraryCookstown Branch 20 Church Street, Innisfil, Ontario L0L 1L0, Phone: 705-458-1273, Website: www.innisfil.library.on.ca Recreation Services Innisfil Public Library Stroud Branch 7883 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1K8, Phone: 705-436-1681, Website: www.innisfil.library.on.ca Recreation Services Innisfil Public Library Churchill Branch 2282 4th Line, Churchill, Ontario L0L 1K0, Phone: 705-456-2671, Website: www.innisfil.library.on.ca Recreation Services Innisfil Recreational Complex 7315 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4V7, Phone: 705-436-3710, Website: www.innisfil.ca Recreation Services South Innisfil Community Centre 1354 Killarney Beach Road, Innisfil, Ontario L0L 1W0, Phone: 705-4363710, Website: www.innisfil.ca Draft as of November 22, 2012 Description Contact information Page 64 Category Business Recreation Services Stroud Innisfil Community Centre 7883 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1K8, Phone: 705-436-3710, Website: www.innisfil.ca Recreation Services Thornton-Cookstown Trans Canada Phone: 705-458-9922, Email: [email protected] Recreation Services YMCA 7315 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4V7, Phone: 705-431-5877, Website: www.ymcaofsimcoemuskoka.ca Recreation Services Innisfil Beach Park 676 Innisfil Beach Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4H6, Phone: 705-4363710, Website: www.innisfil.ca Recreation Services Fennels Park 2220 Gilford Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4H6, Phone: 705-436-3710, Website: www.innisfil.ca Recreation Services Nantyr Park Kennedy Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4M4, Phone: 705-436-3710, Website: www.innisfil.ca Recreation Services Centennial Park 2870 7th Line, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4H6, Phone: 705-436-3710, Website: www.innisfil.ca Recreation Services Recreation Services Leonard's Beach Park Huron Court Park Cookstown Community Park Recreation Services Recreation Services Draft as of November 22, 2012 Stroud Curling Club Description Contact information 7883 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1K8, Phone: 705-436-1473 Page 65 Category Business Recreation Services Nantyr Park Kennedy Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4M4, Phone: 705-436-3710, Website: www.innisfil.ca Recreation Services Cookstown Curling Club 10 Church Street, Cookstown, Ontario L0L 1L0, Phone: 705-4584312 Innisfil Gentlemen's Hockey League Innisfil Minor Hockey Innisfil Soccer Club Innisfil Sports Club Innisfil Skating Club Innisfil Wave Ball Hockey Lefroy Skating Club PO Box 324, Lefroy Ontario L0L 1W0, Phone: 705-456-4751 Phone: 705-431-6098 Phone: 705-431-4516 Phone: 705-431-6735 Miss Jennie's Performing Arts Studio 847 Innisfil Beach Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1Y8, Phone: 705-4315678 Recreation Services Recreation Services Recreation Services Recreation Services Recreation Services Recreation Services Recreation Services Recreation Services Retirement/Nursing Home Lakeside Retirement Services Veteran Affairs Canada Draft as of November 22, 2012 Description Contact information Phone: 705-999-2724 Phone: 705-722-6457 Lakeside Retirement is the most affordable, attractive retirement resident in Simcoe County, where your comfort and happiness is our priority. We offer respite, short term and vacation stays, to allow you to feel the comfort of home, with the knowledge that our professionally trained staff is available day and night to attend to all your needs. 985 Innisfil Beach Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4M8 Phone: 705-4318105, Website: www.lakesideretirement.ca Phone: 1-866-522-2122 Page 66 Category Business Services Birth, Marriage and Death Certificate Services Phone: 1-800-267-8097 Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care Info line Phone: 1-800-268-1154 Canada Revenue Agency Phone: 1-800-959-8281 Services Services Description Contact information Employment Insurance Ontario Works ABC Club Alcona Seniors Sandy Cove Drivers Innisfil Farmers' Market Innisfil Food Bank 48 Owen Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 3H1, Phone: 1-800-206-7218 Phone: 705-722-3132 Alcona Wellness & Spa Centre 1221 Innisfil Beach Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4B2, Phone: 705-4363346 Alcona Seniors 2044 25th Sideroad, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1Z2, Phone: 705-431-0607 Alcona Beach Health Shoppe 1070 Innisfil Beach Road, Unit 20, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4T9, Phone: 705431-5483 Alcoholics Anonymous 37 Queen Street, Cookstown, Ontario L0L 1L0, Phone: 705-725-8682 Services Services Draft as of November 22, 2012 Page 67 Category Business Abundant Health Centre Description Holistic Nutrition and Lifestyle Counseling specializing in disease prevention, chronic disease management (cancer, diabetes, heart disease, inflammation, obesity), whole family wellness, and optimizing athletic performance. Individualized wellness plans, workshops, and retreats to support whole body healing. Contact information 3975 Guest Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 2T3, Phone: 705-716-3828 A Handyman 4 U 322 Limerick Street, Innisfil, Ontario L0L 1K0, Phone: 705-456-9136 Yoga Plus 1981 Emerald Crt, Unit A, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 2A2, Phone: 705-2941228 Yoga for You Draft as of November 22, 2012 Yoga, pilates and personal training for all levels 1042 Goshen Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 2B5, Phone: 705-294-2048 YMCA Child Care Centre 827 9th Line, Goodfellow Public School, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 3Y2, Phone: 705-431-5581 Lois Chounard Counselling Service PO Box 7076, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1A8, Phone: 705-436-7144 YMCA Child Care Centre 1067 Anna Maria Avenue, St. Francis of Assisi Elementary School, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1W2, Phone: 705-4369411 Page 68 Category Business Victoria's Holistic Day Description A Unique & Different Spa. One that looks more at your health than just your nails! Victoria Goodman provides Holistic Health Services such as Indian Head Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Aromatherapy, & Reflexology. Victoria also focuses on relief of chronic pain naturally by using Micro-Current and Far Infrared Heat therapies. We offer Full Esthetic services, mani/pedi`s, facials and waxing. We carry natural products like Bell & Gehwol foot care, OPI polish`s. Services by appointment only. Gift Certificates available. Visit our website: www.victoriasholisticdayspa.ca Contact information 917 Sheppards Trail, Belle Ewart, Ontario L0L 1C0, Phone: 705-2291200 Lakeside Clinic Center for Integrated Medicine 958 Innisfil Beach Road, Unit B, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 2B5, Phone: 705431-0859 Stroud Wellness Centre 7896 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1L5, Phone: 705-294-8070 Cookstown Centre for Wellness 8335 8th Essa Line, Cookstown, Ontario L0L 1L0, Phone: 705-4582156 Stacey Martin, RMT 1070 Innisfil Beach Road, Unit 6, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4T9, Phone: 705436-3300 Spa at Lake Simcoe 1070 Innisfil Beach Road, Innisfil, Ontario L4N 1T2, Phone: 705-4363772 Sobeys 2080 Jans Blvd. Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4T8, Phone: 705-431-6667 Draft as of November 22, 2012 Page 69 Category Business Description Contact information Smart Choice Maid Service 2437 Mapleview Dr. E., Innisfil, Ontario L9S 3A3, Phone: 705-2940838 SLS Student Learning 4171 Innisfil Beach Road, Innisfil, Ontario Phone: 705-436-4030 Simcoe Community Service 8000 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1L5, Phone: 705-431-7666 Shoppers Drug Mart 873 Innisfil Beach Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1Y8, Phone: 705-4362874 Aho Shin Karate and Martial Arts 990 Innisfil Beach Road, 2nd Floor, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 2B5, Phone: 705436-4615 Sandycove Drug Store 902 Lockhart Rd, Unit 3, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4V2, Phone: 705-4366906 Sandycove Acres Home Owners Association PO Box 7151, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1A9, Website: www.scahomeowners.com Sandycove Acres 908 Lockhart Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 3G7, Phone: 705-436-1571, Website: www.sandycoveacres.com New Path Youth and Family Services of Simcoe County RR # 3, Cookstown, Ontario L0L 1L0, Phone: 705-458-4338 Churchill United Church Stay and Play Group 6306 Simcoe Road 4, Churchill, Ontario, Phone: 705-792-7877 Draft as of November 22, 2012 Page 70 Category Business Churchill Wellness Description The little log cabin with the bright door offers chiropractic care and registered massage therapy. Our chiropractor, Dr. David Ruegg has been practicing for over 30 years, most of that time was at his clinic in Newmarket. During those years he has also served the College of Chiropractors of Ontario as an investigator and examiner. Dr. Ruegg uses several different kinds of therapy including, manipulation, interferential current (IFC), infrared, laser therapy and soft tissue massage, providing several different options for patient care and comfort. Our two registered massage therapists, Grant Smith and Muriel Homewood both have many years experience. Grant has worked with David for over 20 years and they are delighted to be working together again from our newly renovated offices. Contact information 6497 Yonge Street, Churchill, Ontario L0L 1K0, Phone: 705-456-8008 Churchill Curling Club 2186 Killarney Beach Road, Lefroy, Ontario L0L 1W0, Phone: 705-4562100 Stroud Fun and Fit 8056 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario, L9S 1L6, Phone: 705-436-5559 Foodland-Cookstown 52 Queen Street, Unit 1, Cookstown, Ontario L0L 1L0, Phone: 705-4581611 Foodland-Innisfil 8056 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1L6, Phone: 705-436-3580 Foot Pro Orthopaedics 5917 4th Line, Cookstown, Ontario L0L 1L0, Phone: 705-435-2943 Draft as of November 22, 2012 Page 71 Category Business Description Contact information Healthy Habit 8 Queen Street, Unit 2, Cookstown, Ontario L0L 1L0, Phone: 705-2914577 Hearing Centre Sandy Cove 902 Lockhart Road, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 4V2, Phone: 705-431-4327 Herbal Magic Weight Loss 8056 Yonge Street, Innisfil, Ontario L9S 1L6, Phone: 705-431-1222 Innisfil Community Church Stay and Play Group 1571 Innisfil Beach Road, Innisfil, Ontario Phone: 705-792-7878 Innisfil Lions/Lioness Club 4852 20th Sideroad, Cookstown, Ontario L0L 1L0, Phone: 705-4580660 Phone: 705-436-6184 Phone: 705-739-8645 Karen's Foot Care Meals on Wheels MotherCare Bambi Reilly, The Footcare Nurse Bartimaeus Inc Cookstown Centre For Wellness Innisfil Montessori Academy Lice Squad Canada Inc. Draft as of November 22, 2012 Foot care 4491 Middletown Rd 905-775-6289; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Provides behavioural, emotional and programming support for children and adolescents 1814 Simcoe Blvd 705-431-2999; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Physiotherapy 5335 8th Line 705-458-2156; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Child Day-Care Services In-home services, and treatment for head lice. 201 Sunnybrae Ave 705-431-4462; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil 3A King St S 705-458-4448, Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Page 72 Category Business Northern Lights Employment Services Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit Suzanne Dobinson, Holistic Health Practitioner Description Assessment of clients' employability needs; advise/assist/refer clients to community resources to aid in their job search, to help them find full-time employment. Free access to job-search equipment, i.e. internet, photocopiers, fax. Public health services. Contact information 1-1070 Innisfil Beach Rd 705-4316913; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil 25 King St S 705-458-1103; Employees: 20-49 Municipality: Innisfil Holistic Medicine 2740 9th Line 705-436-2818; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil TBP - The Body's Paths International Courses & workshops in stress & anger management, anxiety, depression & insomnia 1111 Corrie St 705-436-9676; Employees: 1-4 Municipality: Innisfil Income Security Programs Canada Pension Plan, Death, Survivors and Disability Benefits, Old Age Security, Guaranteed Income Supplement 48 Owen Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 3H1, Phone: 1-800-277-9914 Advocacy Centre for the Elderly Community legal clinic for low income seniors ARCH Disability Law Centre Provides legal representation to people with disabilities Phone: 1-866-482-2724 Community Legal Clinic 85 Bayfield Street, 1st Floor, Barrie, Ontario L4M 3A7, Phone: 705-3256444 Family Law Information Centre 75 Mulcaster Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 3P2, Phone: 705-739-6446 Legal Aid Ontario Draft as of November 22, 2012 Phone: 416-598-2656 Legal representation for low-income clients involved in some types of court matters 85 Bayfield Street, 1st Floor, Barrie, Ontario L4M 3A7, Phone: 705-7373400 Page 73 Category Business OmbudService for Life and Health Insurance Description Consumer Assistance - Answers general inquiries or complaints about life and health insurance Contact information Phone: 1-888-295-8112 Ontario Human Rights Commission Phone: 1-800-387-9080 Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board Phone: 1-888-332-3234 Shelter Support Services Legal assistance and referrals, counselling, court support for women who are experiencing physical, psychological or emotional abuse Eat Right Ontario Speak to registered dietician for trusted information and advice on nutrition and healthy eating GAP- Elizabeth Fry Society Good Food Box Program Meals on Wheels Canadian Red Cross Grocery Assistance Program A community buying club open to anyone. Participants place an order monthly for a box of fresh fruits and vegetables at one of the three order locations. Delivers meals on a regular or temporary basis to persons who are unable to manage their own food preparation Barrie Bayside Mission Centre Copper County Foods Phone: 1-877-510-5102, Website: www.ontario.ca/eatright Phone: 705-725-0613 ext. 235, Website: www.elizabethfrysociety.com Phone: 705-725-7697 ext. 265, Website: ww.bchc.ca Phone: 705-721-3313, Website: www.redcross.ca 16 Bayfield Street, Barrie Offers frozen meals for a fee Specialty frozen food products are available to Royal Victoria Hospital, Nutrition and purchase for those on special diets Food Services Draft as of November 22, 2012 Phone: 705-721-9977 Phone: 1-888-444-0741, Website: www.coppercountyfood.ca 201 Georgian Drive, Barrie, Ontario L4M 6M2, Phone: 705-728-9090 ext. 44428, Website: www.rvh.on.ca Page 74 Category Business With Open Arms Outreach Day Program Description Offers delivered frozen meals including special diet items for a fee Program for socially isolated and frail elderly VON Barrie Adult Day Away Program - IOOF Senior Citizen Homes A social club for adults 50+. Afternoon Friendship Club - Grace United Church A social club, meeting 2nd Tuesday of every month at 1:30 p.m. (September to June) Air Force Association of Canada - RCAF 441 (Huronia) Wing A non-profit organization, fraternal, social and community service association Draft as of November 22, 2012 189 Blake Street, Barrie, Phone: 705737-0755 290 Cundles Road East, Barrie, Ontario, Phone: 705-737-2113 350 Grove Street East, Barrie, Ontario, L4M 2R7, Phone: 705-7340760 Phone: 705-725-5110 Recreation, hot food, assisting in community services 7 George Street, Barrie, Ontario L4N 2G5 Barrie Senior Get Together Club A social club, meets Tuesday 1 to 4 p.m. Providing some community service Collier Street Fellowship Group Senior fellowship group includes singing, speaking and entertainment and lunch, Meets 3rd Wednesday of every month at noon Fifty Club Meets 4th Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. For potluck lunch (expect December, June, July and August) 50+ Social Club Phone: 705-737-5215, Website: www.homemeals.ca 10 Brooks Street, Barrie, Ontario Phone: 705-720-2532 Adult 50+ Barrie Free Methodist Church Office Army, Navy, and Air Force Veterans in Canada (Unit 365) Contact information A drop in social club for anyone 50+. Tuesday at 7 p.m. 7 George Street, Barrie, Ontario L4N 2G5, Phone: 705-728-1010 112 Collier Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 1H3, Phone: 705-726-1511 54 Ross Street, Barrie, Ontario L4N 1G3, Phone: 705-728-7589 503 Essa Road, Barrie, Ontario L4N 9E3, Phone: 705-728-1010 Page 75 Category Business Golden Fellowship Club Description A social club, meeting the 4th Thursday of each month at noon. Contact information 550 Grove Street East, Barrie, Ontario L4M 5Z5, Phone: 705-7285801 Joy Fellowship Meets 3rd Thursday of month at 10:30 a.m. for lunch. (September to June) 374 Salem Road, Barrie, Ontario L9J 0C6, Phone: 705-728-3017 Teenagers A seniors club meeting 2nd Thursday of the month at noon for potluck lunch 151 Lillian Crescent, Barrie, Ontario L4N 5X5, Phone: 705-737-3102 A social club with speakers. Meet every Tuesday, 2 p.m. (September to May) 410 St. Vincent, Barrie, Ontario L4M 4A6, Phone: 705-728-1412 Phone: 705-728-1010 O.U.R. Club -Royal Canadian Legion Hall Probus Royal Canadian Legion Hall, 410 St. Vincent Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 4A6 Royal Canadian Legion - Branch 147 Veterans Club of Barrie A Veterans Social Club that meets five times each year for dinner and fellowship Barrie Literacy Council Helps adults to improve their basic reading, writing and math skills 80 Bradford Street, Unit 244, Barrie, Ontario, L4M 1L6, Phone: 705-7287323 Georgian College Variety of day/evening courses on a full/part time basis for high school graduates and adults. Georgian Drive, Ontario L4M 3X9, Phone: 705-728-1968, Website: www.georgian.on.ca Phone: 705-728-1010 Allandale 55+ Centre 80 Livingstone Street, Barrie, Ontario L4M 6X9, Phone: 705-728-6332 Parkview 55+ Centre 189 Blake Street, Barrie, Ontario L4N 1K5, Phone: 705-737-0755 Victoria Village Activity CentreWoodworking Shop Draft as of November 22, 2012 Community wood shop open weekdays 146 Toronto Street, Barrie, Ontario L4N 1V4, Phone: 705-792-3411, Website: www.barrie.ca Page 76 Category Business Royal Victoria Hospital ALS Society of Ontario Alzheimer Society of Greater Society County Arthritis Society Barrie Native Friendship Centre Description Support group for people with ALS Provides information, education and support to persons with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia Provides information , education and support on arthritic diseases Contact information Phone: 705-728-9802 Phone: 1-866-611-8545 12 Fairview Road, Unit 103, Barrie, Ontario L4n 4P3, Phone: 705-7221066 Phone: 1-800-321-1433 Assist frail at risk and vulnerable Aboriginal and nonAboriginal people with disabilities and degree of chronic illnesses, that may require acute or chronic continuum of care to remain within their communities Phone: 705-721-7689 Canadian Cancer Society 4 Checkley Street, Unit 103, Barrie, Ontario L4N 1W1, Phone: 705-7268032 Canadian Diabetes Association Provides information and support to those living with diabetes Phone: 705-737-3611 Canadian Hearing Society Provides information and support to those living with hearing loss Phone: 705-737-3190 CNIB Provides the services, support and information necessary for people to participate fully in a sighted world and enjoy a good quality of life while living with vision loss. Deaf Access Simcoe Epilepsy (Ontario) Simcoe County Draft as of November 22, 2012 Provides information and support to those living with cancer, their families and friends. 20 Anne Street South, Unit 10, Barrie, Ontario L4N 2C6, Phone: 705-7283352 Provides support services to deaf, deafened and hard of hearing people 74 Cedar Pointe Drive, Unit 1009, Barrie, Ontario L4N 5R7, Phone: 705728-3577 Provides education, community awareness advocacy and support 72 Ross Street, Unit 10, Barrie, Ontario L4N 1G3, Phone: 705-7373132 Page 77 Category Business Heart and Stoke Foundation Hospice Simcoe Independent Living Services of Simcoe & Area Kidney Foundation of Canada Lung Association Multiple Sclerosis Society of CanadaSimcoe County Description Provides information on heart disease and stroke Contact information 112 Commerce Park Drive, Unit 1, Barrie, Ontario L4N 8W8, Phone: 705-737-1020 Provides non-medical home support by trained volunteers to support individuals and families who are coping with a life threatening disease 336 Penetanguishene Road, RR # 1, Barrie, Ontario L4M 7C2, Phone: 705-722-5995 Provides non-medical services, home support, outreach programs and the Accessibility Resource Centre 44 Cedar Pointe Drive, Unit 1102, Barrie, Ontario L4N 5R7, Phone: 705737-3263 Program referral to community programs to meet needs. Transportation to dialysis treatments. Renal education and peer support group information. 1500 Hurontario Street, Unit 201, Mississauga, Ontario L5G 4S1, Phone: 1-800-387-4474 Provides information on managing your asthma, living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and how to quit smoking. 573 King Street East, Toronto, Ontario M5A 4L3, Phone: 1-888-3445864 Provides services to people with MS, focus on education and fundraising for research 44 Cedar Pointe Drive, Suite 1102, Barrie, Ontario L4N 5R7, Phone: 705733-0488 Osteoporosis Canada Provides information regarding osteoporosis, risk factors, drug treatments, etc. 1090 Don Mills Road, Suite 301, Toronto, Ontario M3C 3R6, Phone: 1-800-463-6842 Parkinson Society Canada Monthly support group offered, information and referral. Weekly exercise group. 4211 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario M2P 2A9, Phone: 1-800-565-3000 Senior Wish Association Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit Draft as of November 22, 2012 A registered charity that makes wishes come true for seniors Phone: 705-726-2120 15 Spirling Drive, Barrie, Ontario L4M 6K9, Phone: 705-721-7520 Page 78 Category Business Stroke Recovery Association Atrium Foot Clinic Bayshore Home Health Canada Red Cross Description A support group providing encouragement and programs to those who have suffered a stroke. Specializes in foot problems. Home visits for house bound patients Complete home care s services include personal care, home support/companion, accompaniment, respite care, foot care, nursing and palliative care. Health management service-my Nurse-provided by registered nurses Services include: personal care, household management, meal preparation, palliative care, caregiver relief, friendly visiting, transportation and telephone assurance ParaMed Home Health Provides in-home nursing and home support services Care Clinic appointment or in-home visit Professional Foot Care Contact information 80 Bradford Street, Unit 121, Barrie, Ontario L4N 6S7, Phone: 705-7379202 190 Cundles Road East, Suite 302, Barrie, Ontario L4M 4S5, Phone: 705-722-3044 80 Bradford Street, Unit 525, Barrie, Ontario L4N 6S7, Phone: 705-7228993 Phone: 705-721-4547 Phone: 705-721-4555 18 Sophia Street West, Barrie, Ontario L4N 1J2, Phone: 705-7394333 Saint Elizabeth Heath Care Home health care services include nursing, personal support services, caregiver relief, elder care, mental health, ET, continence specialist and palliative care. 85 Ferris Lane, Suite 104, Barrie, Ontario L4M 6B9, Phone: 705-7375005 VON Canada Provides home health services, in-home respite care, and adult day programs 35 Cedar Pointe Drive, Unit 31, Barrie, Ontario L4N 5R7, Phone: 705737-5044 Draft as of November 22, 2012 Page 79 Category Business We Care Home Health Care Draft as of November 22, 2012 Description Client services by registered nurses and personal support workers including personal care, homemaking, meal preparation, foot care, palliative and dementia care Contact information 64 Cedar Pointe Drive, Unit 1413, Barrie, Ontario L4N 5R7, Phone: 705734-2235 Page 80