The NHS has the mandate for ensuring access to timely, effective acute services for all residents in Niagara. To this end, the NHS was asked for a hospital improvement plan to ensure sustainable services for best care and best outcome. The HNHB LHIN appointed Dr. Jack Kitts to review the plan and how it meets these goals. The LHIN will receive Dr. Kitts' recommendations on the plan at its meeting on Oct. 28.

At the same time, the NHS continues to receive feedback on its plan from the communities it serves and the stakeholders it works with. The NHS is developing a report that identifies issues and options proposed by individuals and communities.

These findings will be in addition to the plan and will be provided to the review team. The deadline for inclusion in this report is Oct. 6.

It is important to have the community inform the plan. Whether contributions are directed to the LHIN or Dr. Kitts, they will be referred to the NHS for inclusion in their plan's addition. Ideas as to how communities can advance the implementation of the plan and the role they are willing to undertake will be welcome advice to the NHS and the review team.

Juanita G. Gledhill, Chair, HNHB LHIN