Public health is an important part of the health care system in Canada. In fact, the work of public health is to keep people healthy and prevent injury, illness and premature death.
Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU), like all 34 health units in Ontario, offers a combination of programs and services, and works on policies and initiatives that protect and promote the health of the populations it serves. In doing so, we recognize that health is complex and influenced by a number of factors, such as where we live and work, the amount of money we have, and our social connections. These factors are called the social determinants of health, and in collaboration with our partners, and oftentimes behind-the-scenes, we work to address them and the role they play in health of our communities.
Best Practice Guidelines in Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit Programs
SMDHU is working toward becoming a Best Practice Spotlight Organization ® (BPSO®) in partnership with the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO). This initiative reflects SMDHU’s commitment to its core values of excellence and collaboration, and to evidence-informed practice in the delivery of high-quality public health programs and services. By implementing RNAO best practice guidelines, SMDHU is enhancing its approach to health promotion, disease prevention and improved health outcomes for everyone in our communities. Working toward BPSO® designation supports our vision of healthy communities and healthy people and reinforces our commitment to advancing equitable, exceptional programs and services for all.
The health unit is currently implementing the following RNAO best practice guidelines in our programs:
This work is part of the BPSO® designation program, funded by the Ontario government. For more information about the RNAO BPSO program, please visit RNAO.ca.
