Sudbury physician Dr. Tim Zmijowskyj has been appointed by the North East LHIN as their primary care lead.

Zmijowskyj will work with the North East LHIN to assist in the ongoing efforts to ensure greater integration of primary care services with other health sectors, according to a press release from the organization.

Recognized as the Family Physician of the Year for Northern Ontario by the Ontario College of Family Physicians in 2009, Zmijowskyj brings a diverse background to his new duties, the press release said.

A senior administrator, researcher, educator and practising family physician in Sudbury, he also has extensive experience working with partners in rural north communities, as well as Aboriginal and marginalized communities.

His research work has involved leading clinical trials related to the determinants of health for Canadians and the development of innovative models of primary care.

The introduction of a primary care lead in each of the province’s 14 LHINs is endorsed by both the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care and the Ontario Medical Association and is in line with the government’s Action Plan commitment to bring planning for the full patient journey under the LHINs, the press release said.

“As the LHINs take on responsibility for planning for primary care, the addition of Dr. Zmijowskyj to our team will support the NE LHIN in continuing to achieve more accountability for delivering the care needs of northerners,” Louise Paquette, CEO of the North East LHIN, said in the press release.

“As the primary care lead for the North East LHIN, Dr. Zmijowskyj will focus on local system initiatives that will integrate with our primary care providers as we create a seamless system of care.”

“We should be proud of the extent and depth of resources available in our health-care system,” Zmijowskyj said.

“However, more and better services are not the complete solution. We need to ensure that people receive the right care in the right place and at the right time. Primary care can provide the navigation needed for continued wellness or a path of support in times of difficulty. A more integrated system of care for fellow northerners is welcomed.”

Posted by Heidi Ulrichsen