Our Journey
Every journey starts with a single step, but to create the Rainy River District Ontario Health Team, many groups from across the region are walking the path together. The RRDOHT is now helping to build a connected health care system centred around patients, families & caregivers. This is how our journey began.
Communities Spark Discussion
Spring 2019
GHAC and Giishkaandago'ikwe Health Services meet with respective Boards and 10 First Nation Chiefs to discuss priorities to consider for possible OHT application.
Committing to Change
Spring 2019
A decision was made to submit an Indigenous-led OHT self-assessment for the Southern region of Treaty #3 — a first step in what would eventually become the RRDOHT.
Expanding the Reach
Summer 2019
A follow-up meeting was held with other local health and social service organizations joining First Nation Leadership to discuss expanding the OHT membership across the Rainy River District.
Starting the Process
Winter 2019
An initial proposal was revised and resubmitted to the Ontario Ministry of Health by all partners after active consultation, with approval from the leadership of the 10 First Nation communities.
Building a Foundation
Summer 2020
A monthly working group was established while awaiting feedback from the MOH. A Terms of Reference document was developed to provide guidance and affirm intentions.
Moving Forward Together
Fall 2020
After a formal invitation from the ministry, a full application to create the RRDOHT was submitted to the Ministry of Health.
The RRDOHT is Given Life
Winter 2020
After reviewing the application form, the Ontario Ministry of Health officially approved the creation of the Rainy River District Ontario Health Team.
Growth Through Focus
Fall 2021
The RRDOHT began to form committees and working groups to focus on improvements in identified health priority areas for the the district, hiring staff to help move important projects forward to make a difference for people in our communities.
Community Spirit
Summer 2022
People from across the district came together in the spirit of celebration to acknowledge the efforts of health care providers and Anishinaabe communities partnering to create the RRDOHT to improve local health outcomes.
A Brand is Born
Fall 2022
In consultation with Anishinaabe leaders and health care organizations, the RRDOHT developed a brand with colours representing the elements and a logo story about the pulse of community - signifying strength and balance in unity, and an interconnectedness between all people and the land.
Our Work Continues
Our work continues to integrate with our communities, progressing through a number of initiatives led by our RRDOHT Leadership Council and its committees:
- RRDOHT Leadership Council
- Mental Health & Addictions Committee
- Diabetes Committee
- Digital Health Committee
- Primary Care Committee
- Patient and Family Advisory Committee (coming soon)
Rainy River District Ontario Health Team