The Huron Perth & Area Ontario Health Team (HPA-OHT) is committed to advancing equity, inclusion, diversity, anti-racism (EIDA-R) in our healthcare system. In spring 2021, we established the EIDA-R Advisory Council as part of our Accountability and Implementation Structure. This group, composed of secretariat staff and member organization representatives, has diligently worked to drive positive change in our network.
We are pleased to announce a significant milestone in our EIDA-R journey. The HPA-OHT has developed and adopted the HPA-OHT Operational EIDA-R Plan. This comprehensive plan, finalized in February 2024 by our Accreditation Collaborative, outlines our strategic priorities and actionable steps to create a more equitable, inclusive, and diverse healthcare system for all in Huron Perth and area.
The plan reflects our ongoing commitment to addressing health disparities, promoting cultural safety, and fostering an environment where everyone feels respected and valued. It encompasses key focus areas such as data collection, engaging with key voices, inclusive recruitment and retention, data analytics and reporting, and education and training programs.
By concentrating our efforts, we aim to maintain a sharp focus on our EIDA-R commitments while making tangible improvements in the delivery of care and health outcomes for our diverse communities.
We invite all members of our healthcare community, including patients, families, caregivers, member organizations, and community partners, to join us in this important work as we strive to build a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system for everyone in Huron Perth and area.
Key Information
The HPA-OHT Operational Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, and Anti-Racism (EIDA-R) Plan is a comprehensive framework designed to guide our efforts in creating a more equitable and inclusive health care system in the Huron Perth area. Finalized in February 2024, this living document outlines our strategic priorities, action plans, and long-term commitments to address health disparities and promote cultural safety.
Key features of the plan include:
– A clear vision for equity in healthcare delivery
– Five strategic priorities: infrastructure investment, data collection, community engagement, inclusive recruitment, and education
– Specific focus areas for each year, starting with 2SLGBTQIA+ Health and Anti-Indigenous Racism
– A glossary of important terms to ensure shared understanding
– Commitments to Indigenous sovereignty and reconciliation
This plan serves as a roadmap for our ongoing journey towards a healthcare system where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism Resources
Frameworks
Ontario Health developed an Equity, Inclusion, Diversity and Anti-Racism Framework with a focus on addressing anti-Indigenous and anti-Racism work through eleven areas of action.
The Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario released an Action Framework: Advancing Equity in Mental Health with ideas for integrating at service delivery, organizational and regional
levels.
Cancer Care Ontario has an Equity in Engagement Framework; the framework promotes equitable engagement and tools to assist efforts to engage and connect with diverse
marginalized populations
CAMH released a framework for Dismantling Anti-Black Racism; the framework outlines goals and specific actions to dismantle anti-Black racism within CAMH.
Ontario Trillium Foundation released a Framework for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion that outlines specific actions for staff, communities and volunteers.
The First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Urban Indigenous Health Framework, developed by Ontario Health, lays out a strategic approach towards enhancing health equity and coordinating health services for Indigenous communities across Ontario. We strongly recommend all member organizations to familiarize themselves with this framework and integrate its principles and strategies into their operations.
The framework is a testament to our commitment to advancing health equity and supports our ongoing efforts to provide culturally safe and accessible healthcare services. Let’s continue to work together to foster an inclusive healthcare environment that respects and acknowledges the unique needs of Indigenous communities.
DEI Statement Samples
Lakeridge Health released a commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement.
Dates of Significance
Refer to Government of Canada and Province of Ontario Important and Commemorative Days
sites for complete listing
Created and maintained by the Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care (Ontario CLRI), the Diversity and Inclusion Calendar keeps track of days that may have special meaning for LTC residents, families and team members in Ontario all in one online space: religious and spiritual days of significance, cultural celebrations, awareness days and health promotion days.
Education & Training
Assessment/Evaluation
Centre for Innovation in Campus Mental Health has an Evaluation Toolkit; primarily directed towards mental health, well-being and addiction services evaluation.
As part of our commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable healthcare environment, we urge all member organizations of the Huron Perth & Area – Ontario Health Team (HPA-OHT) to integrate EIDA-R education and training into their core staff development programs.
This area is a curated collection of online training modules and materials recommended by our EIDA-R Working Group that have proven impactful and enlightening. These resources are designed to assist your team in developing a deeper understanding of EIDA-R principles, enhancing patient care, and promoting a more inclusive workplace culture.
We strongly encourage all member organizations to commit to ongoing EIDA-R work, ensuring that training for all staff is not just encouraged but mandatory. As we continue to grow and learn, this space will evolve, enriched by new findings and recommendations. If you have encountered a training module or resource significantly contributing to your EIDA-R knowledge and practice, please share it with us. We are committed to reviewing all suggestions to ensure our resources remain comprehensive, up-to-date, and effective in driving real change within our community.
EIDA-R Primer Curriculum for Healthcare Teams
Tailored for healthcare organizations who may be beginning their journey into Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, and Anti-Racism (EIDA-R). This space offers essential, beginner-level training resources to introduce the fundamental principles of EIDA-R, aimed at fostering a more equitable and inclusive healthcare environment. Ideal for newcomers or those seeking a refresher, these resources lay the groundwork for further learning and commitment to advancing EIDA-R within our healthcare community.
Building the Foundations of Anti-Oppressive Healthcare is a training initiative aimed at fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion within healthcare institutions, addressing the shortcomings of conventional approaches by encouraging a critical examination of personal assumptions, behaviors, and organizational practices. This program, consisting of two 4-hour modules delivered via Zoom, provides participants with access to online resources, additional readings, and reflective questions to support learning and develop a shared vocabulary for productive dialogue in live sessions. It challenges participants to use their social influence to effect positive change, disrupt harmful norms, and reimagine healthcare environments.
Dive into this engaging 90-minute self-learning course to enhance your understanding of cultural competence within the healthcare setting. Certified for 1.5 Mainpro+ credits by the College of Family Physicians of Canada, this course equips you with the necessary tools to understand the cultural continuum and implement cultural competence from the patient’s perspective. Utilize the Interactivity Guide for an enriched learning experience and apply Pre-Reflective Questions to evaluate cultural safety in your practice. This practical and enlightening course is part of Ontario Health’s (Cancer Care Ontario) Indigenous Relationship and Cultural Safety Course series, aimed at providing deep insights into the history, culture, and healthcare needs of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.
100% of the HPA-OHT secretariat have taken this course.
This Introduction to Anti-Black Racism eLearning Module from Toronto Academic Health Science Network serves as a comprehensive resource for health service providers, learners, staff, and physicians, aiming to deepen their understanding of Anti-Black Racism’s historical roots and its enduring impact in Canada. It offers insights into its various manifestations and encourages reflection and discussion on combating Anti-Black Racism in both professional and personal settings. Additionally, the module supports organizations in offering foundational education on Anti-Black Racism, recommending its incorporation as a vital part of ongoing learning and policy development.
100% of the HPA-OHT secretariat have taken this course.
Offered by Rainbow Health Ontario (RHO) and Sherbourne Health, this comprehensive seven-module course is designed for healthcare and social service providers aiming to enhance their care for 2SLGBTQ individuals. Spanning essential topics such as 2SLGBTQ terminology, minority stress, health disparities, and inclusive care practices, each 30-minute module is structured to improve your comfort, competency, and critical thinking in delivering culturally sensitive and affirming care. Accredited for up to 3.5 Mainpro-M1 credits by the College of Family Physicians of Canada, this course promises a deep dive into the nuances of 2SLGBTQ health, guided by insights from an expert-led Online Learning Development Advisory Committee.
A nominal fee of $20 grants access to this pivotal resource, laying the groundwork for more inclusive healthcare practices.
General EIDA-R Workshops
Participate in a range of workshops covering the essentials of Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, and Anti-Racism, tailored for healthcare professionals.
Call it out: Racism, Racial Discrimination and Human Rights from the Ontario Human Rights Commission; a 30-minute interactive e-course that offers a foundation for learning about race, racial discrimination and human rights protections under Ontario Human Rights Code.
Building the Foundations of Anti-Oppressive Healthcare is a training initiative aimed at fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion within healthcare institutions, addressing the shortcomings of conventional approaches by encouraging a critical examination of personal assumptions, behaviors, and organizational practices. This program, consisting of two 4-hour modules delivered via Zoom, provides participants with access to online resources, additional readings, and reflective questions to support learning and develop a shared vocabulary for productive dialogue in live sessions. It challenges participants to use their social influence to effect positive change, disrupt harmful norms, and reimagine healthcare environments.
The Immigrant and Refugee Mental Health Project (IRMHP) provides comprehensive online training, tools, and resources tailored for professionals in settlement, social, and health services assisting immigrants and refugees. Participants will enhance their knowledge and skills, gaining access to new strategies and tools applicable to their roles, alongside the opportunity to network with service providers nationwide and receive expert advice. This self-paced initiative broadens the scope of the former Refugee Mental Health Project, focusing on a wide range of mental health issues among various immigrant and refugee groups and highlighting effective, evidence-based treatments and support mechanisms.
Indigenous Focused Learning for Settlers
Explore resources designed to deepen understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures, histories, and perspectives among settlers.
94 Calls to Action by The Truth and Reconciliation Commission; actions to advance Canada through the process of reconciliation with First Nation, Inuit, Métis and urban Indigenous Peoples—includes a “health” section (actions 18-24).
Learn more here.
Ontario Health’s (Cancer Care Ontario) Indigenous Relationship and Cultural Safety Course; a series of 13 Free online courses to provide knowledge about the history and culture of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people and communities.
University of Alberta’s Indigenous Canada Course; a free 12-lesson Massive Open Online Course from the Faculty of Native Studies that explores Indigenous histories and contemporary issues in Canada.
Some HPA OHT members have received San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety training from the Provincial Health Services Authority in BC. This training was provided up to ten members from each OHT in 2020-2021. There is an OHT goal to have all members trained in Indigenous Cultural Safety. It is an eight week, work-at-your-own pace course that requires 8 to 11 hour per week. Cost is approximately $300 per person. The training is accredited by the Ontario College of Family Physicians, Canadian College of Health Leaders and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
The Anishinaabe Mino’Ayaawin – People in Good Health, developed by IPHCC, represents a holistic approach to Indigenous Cultural Safety that transcends mere cultural competency to include an understanding of historical, social contexts, and power dynamics affecting Indigenous health. This methodology emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness, sensitivity, humility, and safety, addressing the detrimental effects of anti-Indigenous racism on the health and wellness of Indigenous communities in Ontario and across Canada. Through decolonizing and Indigenous-informed strategies, the IPHCC seeks to educate and transform the broader healthcare system to ensure equitable care for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people.
Addressing Anti-Black Racism
Engage with materials aimed at confronting and dismantling systemic and individual anti-Black racism within healthcare settings and beyond.
The Sickle Cell Disease Education Program for Healthcare Providers consists of 13 modules, each comprising multiple micro-lessons designed to be completed in under 10 minutes, aimed at offering equitable access to high-quality education to improve the care of individuals with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). This self-learning program, certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 13 Mainpro+® credits, seeks to enhance healthcare providers’ knowledge, skills, and practices to mitigate health inequities and ensure safe, equitable care. Targeted at a broad audience including physicians, nurses, social workers, and psychologists, the program provides a comprehensive understanding of SCD, its treatment, complications, and the lived experiences of patients, culminating in a certificate of completion for each module.
The Sickle Cell Disease Education Program for Healthcare Providers consists of 13 modules, each comprising multiple micro-lessons designed to be completed in under 10 minutes, aimed at offering equitable access to high-quality education to improve the care of individuals with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). This self-learning program, certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 13 Mainpro+® credits, seeks to enhance healthcare providers’ knowledge, skills, and practices to mitigate health inequities and ensure safe, equitable care. Targeted at a broad audience including physicians, nurses, social workers, and psychologists, the program provides a comprehensive understanding of SCD, its treatment, complications, and the lived experiences of patients, culminating in a certificate of completion for each module.
2SLGBTQAA+ Inclusion
Access inclusive and affirming resources tailored to support and advocate for the 2SLGBTQAA+ community within healthcare environments.
Offered by Rainbow Health Ontario (RHO) and Sherbourne Health, this comprehensive seven-module course is designed for healthcare and social service providers aiming to enhance their care for 2SLGBTQ individuals. Spanning essential topics such as 2SLGBTQ terminology, minority stress, health disparities, and inclusive care practices, each 30-minute module is structured to improve your comfort, competency, and critical thinking in delivering culturally sensitive and affirming care. Accredited for up to 3.5 Mainpro-M1 credits by the College of Family Physicians of Canada, this course promises a deep dive into the nuances of 2SLGBTQ health, guided by insights from an expert-led Online Learning Development Advisory Committee.
A nominal fee of $20 grants access to this pivotal resource, laying the groundwork for more inclusive healthcare practices.
This course from Trans Care BC is intended to offer basic information for staff working directly or indirectly with gender-diverse clients within health care, mental health, and social work services.
Francophone Perspectives
Discover programs and tools that enhance care and services for Francophone communities, ensuring linguistic and cultural sensitivity.
Offered by Ontario Health (West)
Dive into a comprehensive, free online course designed to enhance your expertise in providing culturally and linguistically sensitive care. This opportunity, generously provided by Ontario Health (West), is easily accessible. Simply click on “Register Now” to begin the approval process for access to this invaluable online resource.
Program Overview
The Cultural and Linguistic Sensitive Care Learning Program is a meticulously crafted six-hour course, comprising an introductory segment followed by three informative modules. Each module is laden with a variety of learning materials including case studies, quizzes, videos, reflection prompts, and evaluations, ensuring a rich, interactive educational experience.
Participants are afforded the luxury of progressing through the program at their own pace, providing a flexible learning environment that caters to individual schedules and learning preferences. Upon registration, you will be asked to specify your anticipated completion date, allowing for a personalized learning journey.
Program Modules:
- Module 1: Understanding Culture and the Importance of Cultural and Linguistic Sensitive Care
- Module 2: Identifying Francophones in Ontario
- Module 3: Implementing the Active Offer of French Language Services
In addition to the core modules, the program offers a range of supplementary resources, including printable materials, to enhance your learning experience.
Certification and Credits:
Upon successful completion of all three modules, along with the requisite activities and evaluations, participants will be awarded a Certificate of Completion. Moreover, this program qualifies certified members of the Canadian College of Health Leaders (CHE / Fellow) for 20 Category II credits towards their Maintenance of Certification requirement, underscoring the program’s value in professional development within the healthcare leadership community.
This online training program delves into the crucial aspects of effectively providing French language health services. This course is designed for healthcare professionals and students in related fields.
Participants will discuss the significance of actively offering French language health services and explore strategies for enhancing these services in their practice. The program aims to highlight individuals’ role in fostering improvements in the availability and quality of French language health services, ultimately promoting safe, quality, person-centred care.
Register now to gain insights into implementing practical steps towards achieving excellence in service provision to Francophone communities, ensuring equitable access to healthcare services for all.
Tools and Toolkits
Health Equity Impact Assessment Tool; decision support tool that walks individuals through the steps of identifying how a program, policy or similar initiative will impact population groups in different ways.
D.I.Y Health Equity Toolkit produced by Canadian Association of Mental Health; a guide for those interested in working towards equity within Ontario’s Mental Health System and beyond.
Advancing the Mission: Tools for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion; toolkit contains 11 tools that organization can use to achieve change—divided into two categories: Cross-Cutting Tools and Hard-Wire Group (see page 28).
Navigating Race in Canadian Workplaces; a toolkit for diversity and inclusion practitioners to provide them with relevant resources to talk about race and racism in the workplace.
The Embracing Diversity: A Toolkit for Supporting Inclusion in Long-Term Care Homes is an interactive resource with print and online components that gives LTC homes practical steps to nurture diverse and welcoming communities. The toolkit was created by the Ontario CLRI and was informed by the Supporting Diversity and Inclusion in Long-Term Care Advisory Committee and other experts, including persons with lived experience.
Health Equity Toolkit by EQUIP Health Care; specifically, Trauma and Violence Informed Practice Tool.
Grey Bruce Public Health created a Health Equity Tool and corresponding online training videos along with instructions for use.
National Collaborating Centre for Determinants of Health produced Let’s Talk Health Equity.
Guides, Tips and Policy Documents
The Registered Nurses Association of Ontario released the Embracing Cultural Diversity in Health Care: Developing Cultural Competence – a best practices guide for embracing diversity within health care organizations.
City of Ottawa created an Equity and Inclusion Lens Handbook.
Rainbow Health Ontario, a program of Sherbourne Health, wrote this brief guide in response to the many requests they receive for guidance on incorporating sexual orientation and gender identity into intake forms and EHRs. They understand that making changes to software can be difficult and the ability to make changes depends both on the flexibility of the software program and access to funds.
In this brief, the Fenway Institute discuss two methods for gathering sexual orientation and gender identity from patients, by asking questions on the patient registration (intake) form, and by requiring that providers gather this information directly from patients during medical visits, recording responses in the electronic medical record.
View the policy brief here.
Action Plans
Health Quality Ontario produced a Health Equity Plan.
This strategic document emerges from a collaborative effort involving community members, health leaders, and academics, aimed at confronting the persistent systemic health disparities faced by Black communities in Ontario.
The Black Health Plan articulates a comprehensive approach to reducing health disparities and promoting equity, serving as both a blueprint for action and a source of inspiration for health care providers, organizations, and governing bodies. It is structured around three core pillars: equitable pandemic response, health system recovery focusing on Black populations, and the sustenance of health equity. Each pillar is supported by specific recommendations directed at the Ministry of Health, Ontario Health, Ontario Health Teams, and health service providers.
This plan is a call to action, urging the health sector to adopt its recommendations and work towards transforming the health care landscape to ensure safe, equitable care, and improved outcomes for Black communities across Ontario. Developed jointly by Ontario Health, The Wellesley Institute, and the Black Health Alliance, the plan stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collective effort and leadership in the health community.
For more detailed insights and to explore the roadmap laid out by this plan, we encourage our leaders and management to download and review the Black Health Plan. Engaging with this resource is a step forward in our journey towards creating an inclusive health system that serves all populations equitably.
