A collaborative partnership agreement has been signed between the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) and the North Simcoe Muskoka Local Health Integration Network (LHIN).

“The Northern Ontario School of Medicine is pleased to be partnering with the North Simcoe Muskoka LHIN,” Dr. Roger Strasser, the dean of NOSM, said in a press release.

“This collaborative partnership will enhance our community outreach and supports the priorities of NOSM’s 2010-2015 Strategic Plan, which includes the vision of Innovative Education and Research for a Healthier North.” 

Stronger post-secondary education, greater access to medical services at the community level, and a sustainable health system for the residents of North Simcoe Muskoka are key strategic goals of this
collaboration.

“Health human resources is and will continue to be, a major challenge for our LHIN,” Bernie Blais, CEO of the North Simcoe Muskoka LHIN, said in the press release.

“Working with NOSM, we anticipate opportunities to encourage our local populations to consider health services careers and the opportunities that NOSM can provide.  We foresee a successful partnership and one that will benefit the residents of North Simcoe Muskoka.”

Collaboration may include research on the use of best practices for health services delivery, health human resources planning, ensuring the health needs of aboriginal, francophone and rural populations are met, education and professional development for health service providers and communities, and the opportunity to share skills and expertise to ensure both organizations meet their respective mandates.