Two northern Ontario health units merge

Two northern health units merge The Porcupine and Temiskaming Health Units in the north have officially merged into one. Lydia Chubak has the details.

Dr. Lianne Catton has been named the medical officer of health and chief executive officer of Northeastern Public Health. That’s the new name for the recently merged Porcupine and Temiskaming Health Units. Doctor Glenn Corneil, who’s been the acting medical officer of health for the Temiskaming Health Unit will remain as a public health doctor.

The Porcupine Health Unit and the Temiskaming Health Unit are two of nine in Ontario that have voluntarily amalgamated to reduce the duplication of services.

“There's been no job losses, no plans, to make any cuts,” said Catton.

“With respect to the merger itself, it's really important that we have everyone on board so that we can strengthen public health, enhance programs and services for our communities.”

Signs on the outside of the health units will eventually change, but Catton said staff will continue to work out of their respective offices until there is any further direction and all programs and services remain in place.

“When you look at schools, it's a good opportunity to only have one individual maybe doing some of that, that behind-the-scenes work of developing materials and resources,” said Catton.

“Then having more of the team being able to engage with the schools themselves.”

Catton said that is just one example. She also said the new team will have much work to do in addressing many health issues in the region that have worsened – such as tobacco and alcohol rates, preventable injury rates and the opioid crisis.