Local Public Health officials are looking into a merger they say could “enrich” their ability to deliver healthcare to residents.
Hastings & Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) has announced that it’s “investigating the feasibility” of merging with Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington Public Health and the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit
Staff say the idea for the merger came after an announcement Ontario’s Ministry of Health made in August, offering one-time funding and support for organizations that merge.
“Over the past several weeks, we have had productive conversations with neighbouring public health units, exploring potential partnerships that could build on our existing strengths and meet the province’s objectives to strengthen public health,” said Jan O’Neill, Board Chair at HPEPH.
“We are open to possibilities to improve capacity and coordination, and the community should be reassured that when exploring any such decision, we will prioritize our ability to maintain frontline service to meet local needs.”
Officials say all three Boards of Health will need to decide whether to go forward with the merger and submit a proposal by March 2024.