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Ontario Hospital Association
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Sunday, November 14, 2004
Blue Ribbon Panel to Provide Advice and Guidance to Ontario’s Trustees
Toronto – At the forefront of OHA’s Governance initiative, is the striking of a "Blue Ribbon" panel that will be charged with providing advice and expertise on Performance Management for Hospitals and their Boards and providing Trustees with a better understanding of accountability in the post Bill 8 environment.
The Governance Leadership Council is a 15-member panel chaired by Virginia McLaughlin, Chair of Sunnybrook and Women’s College Health Sciences Centre, and a former member of the OHA Board of Directors.
The development of Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs) in concert with the government’s commitment to preserve the independence of community boards, effective hospital governance is critical. Expectations of trustees, in terms of both their time commitment and strategic expertise, have risen dramatically.
"We are delighted to have formed a Council with such an outstanding group of individuals," says Ms McLaughlin, "their expertise and leadership will allow us to fulfil our commitment to providing Trustees with the tools and knowledge they need to continue to steward the hospitals of Ontario."
According to Hospital Governance and Accountability in Ontario prepared by Maureen Quigley and Graham Scott, there are almost 3500 Hospital Trustees in Ontario serving as a critical link between hospitals and their communities.
"The Ontario Hospital Association recognizes the demands placed on today’s Trustees," says Hilary Short, President & CEO. "For this reason, we have embarked on a Governance initiative to support hospital Boards and to maintain our leadership position in a rapidly changing health care climate."
The striking of the Governance Leadership Council builds upon the work of OHA’s Health Care Trustee Institute, and strengthens OHA’s commitment to providing ongoing training and development for Trustees. Beginning in 1999, the Trustee Institute has provided credentialing and ongoing education.
For further information:
OHA Public Affairs
416-205-1348