Primary Care Leaders Unite at Toronto Region Primary Care Leads Retreat

This past February, Ontario Health Toronto  and the Office of Health System Partnerships (OHSP) within the University of Toronto’s Department of Family and Community Medicine (DFCM) partnered to co-host two half-day retreats focused on developing a shared vision for improving access to primary care across Toronto, in alignment to Ontario’s Primary Care Action Plan.

The retreat brought together Ontario Health Team (OHT) /Primary Care Network (PCN) leaders, community ambassadors, DFCM clinical leads, and Ontario Health Toronto partners who work at the forefront of primary care transformation to collaboratively identify regional priorities, align efforts and develop a strategic plan that reflect an equity-based approach to attachment and access. Academics and population health experts from Dalla Lana School of Public Health and the Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation also attended to share their insights and join in the conversation.  

The two half-day retreats created space for shared learning, collaboration and the exchange of innovative ideas. Participants highlighted ongoing efforts to improve access to primary care, with a particular emphasis on supporting populations that have been historically underserved. As an example, models that support hospital-primary care integration initiatives and interim access to supports in equity deserving neighbourhoods were highlighted.

“The energy and passion in the room from leaders from all eight Toronto OHTs and PCNs was inspiring,” says Dr. Rosemarie Lall, family physician, Platinum Medical Family Health Organization and member of the retreat planning team. “The attendees shared common challenges and success stories. Together we developed a vision and commitment to work collectively to make primary health care better for our patients. I was very proud and re-energized to be part of this group.”

A key theme throughout the discussions was the importance of partnership and coordinated efforts across the region. Additionally, many Ontario Health Teams are working closely with organizations such as the Toronto Public Library, Toronto Community Housing, hospitals and a wide range of community-based groups. These collaborations are helping to bring care directly into communities, reducing barriers and ensuring services are more accessible, equitable and responsive to local needs.

“What struck me most at the retreat was how much our approach to strengthening primary care has evolved,” says Dr. Catherine Yu, engagement lead at the Office of Health System Partnerships and member of the retreat planning team. “Early in my career, advocating for resources for one neighbourhood often felt like it came at the expense of another. Through OHTs and their PCNs, we are planning together using shared data to support the communities that need it most.”

While common challenges and roadblocks were acknowledged, such as the need to address challenges with health human resources, the overall tone remained one of determination and momentum. Leaders shared not only the complexities of system transformation, but also practical solutions, lessons learned, and a strong commitment to continuous improvement. “These networks increasingly feel like a true community of practice, giving hope that it will eventually build a coordinated primary care system,” Dr. Yu shares.

The energy and commitment demonstrated by participants reflect a growing movement toward a more connected and inclusive primary care system, one that meets people where they are and ensures no community is left behind. “The attendees shared common challenges and success stories. Together we developed a vision and commitment to work collectively to make primary health care better for our patients,” says Dr. Lall. “I was very proud and re-energized to be part of this group.”