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If you were to establish a CHC in your community, what are the first steps you would take? Who would you involve and why?

My first steps before establishing a new CHC in my community would be understanding demographics, existing clinics nearby, budgeting and building a leadership team.

Community Demographics

Understanding the health needs of the community by undertaking a review of health information and social determinants present. Information could be obtained through StatsCan and the Ministry of Health.

Existing clinics

Understanding the clinics that exist within the neighbourhood and what services they provide to ensure that the new CHC does not compete with established clinics and centres in the community.

Budgeting

Understanding the revenues that can beobtained from OHIP for different services and the costs associated with staff, programs, buildings and equipment to ensure that the CHC will be viable in the long term and will comply with Ontario health regulations.

CHC's in Ontario are governed by a volunteer board of directors. Having experienced board members who share a common vision of health promotions and services in the community is essential.