Strategic Directions

The following strategic directions are included in Central Health's strategic plan for  2009-2011:

  1. System Alignment - Central Health commits to redefining its system of care delivery to ensure that the health needs of the citizens of the region served by Central Health are met, utilizing an approach that incorporates quality practice standards and the best use of resources.
  2. Access - A key component to providing program and service quality is ensuring appropriate and timely access to health care services which are responsive to the changing needs of the population served. A significant barrier to appropriate and timely access is waiting time for diagnostic and treatment services. This barrier is related to the availability of resources, in particular, human resources. While the recruitment and retention of appropriate health providers is a national challenge, Central Health commits to continuing to work with the Department of Health and Community Services to improve access in its designated region.
  3. Infrastructure and Capital Equipment - Many of the buildings that house Central Health services and programs are older and have undergone redevelopment at various times. Changes in services, programs, technology and client and staff needs require attention and there is on-going discussion with the Department of Health and Community Services on these matters. Renewal and /or upgrading of our buildings will ensure we continue to meet building codes, fire and life safety standards and regulations. Similarly, equipment must be regularly renewed and/or upgraded to meet new standards of care and/or changes in best practices. Capital projects and capital equipment are expensive and require planning to ensure needs are identified and anticipated.
  4. Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Management - Over the next three years, the Chronic Disease Management Strategy that is presently being developed by Central Health will be aligned with the provincial strategy that is being developed by the Department of Health and Community Services.
  5. Ensuring Service Quality - Central Health is a participant in the national patient safety movement and contributes to provincial initiatives to enhance patient safety and minimize risk. The assurance of quality and safety is achieved by continuously monitoring and improving services and programs utilizing service quality indicators based on evidence-informed best practices.