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The compassion and dedication demonstrated every day by the staff, professional staff, volunteers and learners at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) is second to none; which is why celebrating Employee Recognition Week is so important. We, the Board, recognize the collective commitment to the health of patients and families of Northwestern Ontario is what sets us apart. In March we set aside a week to express our appreciation through small gestures, recognizing the dedication and exceptional work of those who support patient care – both directly or indirectly.

As a part of this celebratory week, we also hold our iCare Impact Awards – a forum for staff to recognize others for their efforts and outcomes that positively impact our patients and their families. This year’s winners reflect what our people do each and every day:

Congratulations to all our award winners and nominees for their work in advancing our vision of exceptional care for every patient, every time.

This month, we also celebrate the generosity of our volunteers and Patient Family Advisors, who give so freely of their time. Their contributions to our Hospital community are invaluable, enhancing the care experience for patients and families and making our organization a warm and welcoming place. If you know or see a volunteer, please take this opportunity to thank them for their incredible commitment, and the meaningful difference they make in our community.

I would also like to recognize the volunteer members of the Board of Directors. Thank you for gifting your time and talent to guide the Hospital’s priorities, provide strategic direction and oversight in order to improve the quality of care for patients and families of Northwestern Ontario.

Finally, coming up next month, surveyors from Accreditation Canada will visit our Hospital. Accreditation ensures we meet nationally endorsed standards, provides a formal process for ongoing evaluation, and allows for discussion of education and training. We look forward to sharing details from the survey with the community when they are available.

A decade after it first launched to raise awareness about cervical cancer, Northwestern Ontario’s annual cervical screening campaign is returning this month with a new name and a renewed call to action.

Formerly known as ‘Pap-A-Palooza’, the month-long initiative has been renamed ‘Cervical Screen-a-Thon’ to reflect recent changes to the Ontario Cervical Screening Program. In 2025, Ontario replaced the traditional Pap test with a new cervical screening test that checks for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can lead to cervical cancer.

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) is leading the 10th annual campaign in partnership with more than 40 clinics and health centres across Northwestern Ontario. From April 1 to 30, participating sites are encouraging eligible individuals to book their cervical screening test as part of a regional effort to increase screening rates.

“This 10th anniversary milestone reflects the strength of our community partnerships and a decade of commitment to cervical cancer screening across Northwestern Ontario,” said Tarja Heiskanen, Manager, Prevention and Screening Clinical Services at TBRHSC. “Cervical Screen-a-Thon is about turning awareness into action and encouraging more people to take that important step for their health.”

Northwestern Ontario screening numbers are below provincial targets and we are hopeful the campaign will increase screening participation across the region.

“Only about half of eligible individuals in Northwestern Ontario are up to date with cervical screening,” said Dr. Naana Jumah, Ontario Health – Cancer Care Ontario Regional Colposcopy and Cervical Screening Lead for the northwest region. “We continue to diagnose cervical cancer in people who were overdue for testing. Regular screening allows us to detect changes earlier and significantly improve outcomes.”

The Ontario Cervical Screening Program recommends screening for individuals who:

To find a participating clinic near you and to learn more about Cervical Screen-a-Thon, visit tbrhsc.net/screenathon.

Behind every colonoscopy, every polyp removed, and every cancer detected early is an entire team working together.

In the Endoscopy Unit at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, five gastroenterologists and nine general surgeons perform more than 10,000 endoscopic procedures each year with the shared goal of detecting colon cancer early, preventing cancer by removing precancerous polyps, and caring for patients when it matters most.

This important work is supported by a highly skilled and coordinated team, including:

During Colon Cancer Awareness Month, we recognize not only the importance of screening and early detection but also the dedicated health care professionals working behind the scenes to make it possible.

We send our deepest condolences to Elder Aaron Therriault’s family, friends, his community of Aroland First Nation, and all those affected by this loss as our dear friend makes his way to the Spirit World.

Elder Aaron, also known by his Anishinaabe name Animkii-gaabowii (Thunder Spirit), was a respected Elder who called Thunder Bay home since 1983. His dedication to his culture, language, and tradition, shared through education, song, and storytelling, made him a deeply valued presence in our community and at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC).

He could often be seen around the Hospital, smiling and carrying his drum. He participated in many Hospital initiatives and his positive presence and guidance helped to move the work forward.

Elder Aaron provided support and guidance to patients alongside our Spiritual Care team. He sat with many patients at the end of their lives, helping them begin their journey to the Spirit World. The compassion he showed brought comfort to both patients and their families.

Elder Aaron served as an Elder for the Repairing the Sacred Circle: An Indigenous Health Primer training, designed by our partners N’Doo’owe Binesi at St. Joseph’s Care Group, and delivered by TBRHSC. Through his teachings and guidance, he supported staff in developing stronger cultural safety skills and a deeper understanding of Indigenous health. He helped shift attitudes and bring people together in a more meaningful way.

His voice was central to TBRHSC’s annual Truth and Reconciliation Report, which highlights the Hospital’s efforts to address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action. His reflections, grounded in the teachings of the Medicine Wheel and the spirit of the Sacred Circle, helped shape the Hospital’s approach to reconciliation and the path forward.

The greatest gifts he gave us were the Anishinaabe names he offered through ceremony, laying a foundation to move the work forward in a good way. He gifted the Indigenous Collaboration, Equity and Inclusion portfolio’s Indigenous departments the name Miskwaa Biidaaban meaning ‘Red Dawn’, and the youth-focused career experience the name Kinomagai Akosii-agamong Anokiiwin, meaning ‘Teaching Hospital, Career or Work.’

These were the first traditional names gifted to Indigenous Collaboration, Equity and Inclusion, and the significance of that moment will not be forgotten. Elder Aaron saw the dedication to this work as a sign of compassion and love, and a commitment to building respect and common ground. He shared that people heal through love, through culture, and through the support of those who carry the teachings. He saw opportunities to grow and do things better. He hoped we would learn from one another, and that by walking this path together, we would find a better way forward for patients, families and our staff.

Elder Aaron’s spirit lives on in the names he gave us and the teachings he shared. Everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him was touched by his knowledge, generosity, and belief in what we were doing and why it mattered. We give thanks for a life of service and will remember him fondly for his tremendous contributions to the well-being of the growth of our Hospital. We are grateful. We will carry his teachings forward.

The rate of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) in Thunder Bay and the surrounding region has significantly decreased in recent weeks. As a result, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre will move from Level 3 to Level 2 masking protocols starting Monday, March 16, 2026.

What this means for masking requirements:

Level 3 procedure masks are required when entering patient rooms, exam rooms, or other patient-care areas. Masks must also be worn whenever six-foot physical distancing cannot be maintained.

Who this applies to:

Staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers, and Essential Care Partners (ECPs) / Care Partners (CPs).

Visitors (ECPs/CPs) must wear a Level 3 procedure mask when entering inpatient rooms. Masks are also required if 6-foot distancing cannot be maintained.

Important reminders:

Masking remains mandatory at all times on the Acute Oncology wing (1A) to protect vulnerable patients. Masks will continue to be available at all Hospital entrances and clinical units. Anyone who fails self-screening but must be present in the Hospital will be required to wear a mask in accordance with Infection Prevention and Control protocols. Staff and visitors are encouraged to wear a mask beyond the minimum requirement if they feel more comfortable.

Please practice hand hygiene by using the hand sanitizer dispensers located throughout the Hospital, including at all entrances.

Thank you for your continued commitment to keeping our patients, staff, and Hospital community safe.

It’s not a conversation most people want to have: stool samples and cancer. But when it comes to colon cancer, avoiding the conversation can be far more uncomfortable than having it.

Colon cancer often develops without symptoms, which is why regular screening is one of the most effective ways to catch the disease early. In many cases, the first warning sign is something only a stool test can detect. When detected and treated early, 9 out of 10 people with colon cancer can be cured. Yet in Northwestern Ontario, 42 per cent of eligible adults are overdue for screening.

“For most people between the ages of 50 and 74 who are at average risk and have no family history of colon cancer, screening starts with a simple test you can do at home every two years,” says Dr. Nicole Zavagnin, Regional Primary Care Lead for Ontario Health – Cancer Care Ontario at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. “The fecal immunochemical test, or FIT, looks for tiny amounts of blood in the stool that aren’t visible to the eye and can be an early warning sign of cancer.”

One common myth that prevents people from getting screened is the belief that the test is invasive. “A FIT is not a colonoscopy,” explains Dr. Zavagnin. “It’s a simple at-home test that involves collecting a small sample of stool and does not require a hospital visit, sedation, or time off work. If you have a family history of colon cancer, it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider about the screening option that’s right for you. When a FIT result is abnormal, a colonoscopy is the important next step to find the cause.”

Another myth about cancer screening is that if someone feels healthy, they don’t need to get tested. In reality, screening is designed for people who feel well, before symptoms appear or illness develops.

“Screening is a proactive step you can take while you’re feeling healthy,” says Dr. Zavagnin. “It gives us the best chance to find cancer early, when treatment is less complex and outcomes are significantly better.”

This Colon Cancer Awareness Month, ask your healthcare provider if you are due for screening. People without a healthcare provider can get a FIT from the Screen for Life Coach (807-684-7777) or by calling Health811. The test is quick, private, and covered by OHIP for eligible individuals.

Talking about colon cancer screening might feel uncomfortable at first, but it can be one of the most important conversations you have.

Registration is now open for SCOPE (Surgical Care Optimization & Primary Care Education), hosted by the Regional Surgical Services team at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.

Who should attend?

MDs, NPs, PAs, medical students, nurses, physiotherapists, and chiropractors.

What can participants expect?

Participants will get up to date practice guidance on various medical/surgical conditions, master orthopedic physical assessments, and learn new clinical skill sets in cortisone injection practice. Participants will have the opportunity to network with our Central Intake team to better incorporate electronic referral platforms and pathways into their primary care practice and various community programs and services to optimize patient care.

Participating Specialties

Hematology, General Surgery, Orthopedics, Gynecology, Otolaryngology, and Surgical Oncology.

When and where is this happening?

Date: May 4, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Location: Valhalla Inn, Thunder Bay, ON

To register, visit https://event.fourwaves.com/scope

Early Bird Registration closes on March 13, 2026.

Registration closes on April 20, 2026.

For more information, please contact Katie Cardy, NP-PHC at (807) 684-7103 or Katie.Cardy@tbh.net.

*This program has been certified for up to 7.5 Mainpro+® credits and up to 7.5 MoC Section 1 learning hours.

As Heart Month comes to a close, we want to take one more opportunity to recognize the dedicated professionals of our Cardiovascular Services Team. Each member plays an essential role in ensuring that cardiac patients across Northwestern Ontario receive the exceptional, compassionate care they deserve.

The Cath Lab is supported by a highly skilled, multidisciplinary team that includes Registered Nurses, Medical Radiation Technologists, a dedicated clerical and data team, and Interventional and Diagnostic Cardiologists — including a Cardiologist with a specialization in electrophysiology. Here, members of the Cath Lab team are displaying the new Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) system for advanced intra-coronary imaging to support Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), often called coronary angioplasty.

Members of the Cath Lab team are seen here displaying the new Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), a temporary mechanical, catheter-based device used in emergencies to assist a failing heart by increasing blood flow to the coronary arteries and reducing the heart’s workload.

Cardiac Diagnostics – Electrocardiogram (ECG): At Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC), Registered Cardiology Technologists (RCTs) and ECG Technicians perform electrocardiograms, providing accurate and timely cardiac assessments to support patient care and treatment planning.

Cardiac Diagnostics – Pacemaker and Device Clinic: Registered Cardiology Technologists (RCTs) in the Pacemaker and Device Clinic provide specialized support for the implantation of permanent pacemakers, working closely with the Cardiac Cath Lab team to ensure safe, precise, and effective patient care.

Cardiac Diagnostics Stress Lab: Stress tests are conducted by skilled Registered Cardiology Technologists (RCTs) and Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs), with oversight and support from Cardiologists. Here, our clinicians are pictured with our GE CASE Stress System, working together to provide accurate assessments, safe testing, and personalized care that helps patients understand their heart health and guides treatment decisions.

Cardiac Diagnostics – Echocardiogram (ECHO): Above are members of our dedicated Cardiac Sonography team who work across our three ECHO labs. Several hold dual certification as Cardiac Sonographers and Registered Cardiology Technologists (RCT), bringing advanced expertise and specialized skills to the care of our patients.

Inpatient Cardiology (2C) is supported by a dedicated, multidisciplinary team committed to delivering comprehensive cardiac care. The unit includes Registered Nurses (RNs), Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Pharmacists (RPh), Occupational Therapists (OT), Physical Therapists (PT), Social Workers (SW), Registered Dietitians (RD), clerical staff, housekeeping, Nutrition and Food Services, clinical leaders, and both General and Interventional Cardiologists — all working collaboratively to support patients throughout their hospital stay.

Cardiovascular Rehabilitation is a comprehensive program designed to help patients manage cardiovascular disease, reduce the risk of future heart-related events, and achieve a healthier, more independent lifestyle. The program is delivered by a multidisciplinary team that includes Registered Nurses, Kinesiologists, a Registered Dietitian, a Social Worker, clerical staff, and a Cardiologist. Patients may participate in a 16-week guided exercise program that incorporates education, counseling, and personalized nutritional coaching to support long-term heart health.

The Screen for Life Coach has released its 2026 travel schedule with a new regional hub model designed to keep cancer screening accessible for communities across Northwestern Ontario. Operating from four hub locations between April and October 2026 will allow the Coach to continue providing uninterrupted screening services despite ongoing mechanical issues.

The Screen for Life Coach (Coach) is a mobile cancer screening bus that delivers breast, cervical, and colon cancer screening services in one convenient place.

“The current Coach is nearing the end of its lifespan after supporting cancer screening in Northwestern Ontario for 13 years,” says David McConnell, Director of the North West Regional Cancer Program at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. “We understand the critical role the Coach plays in making screening accessible in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities where services may be limited. By adopting a temporary hub model as we wait for our new mobile screening bus, we’re able to bring screening services closer to home for communities in the region.”

The Coach will be screening in the following communities during the 2026 travel season:

Patients due for screening in the surrounding communities are encouraged to travel to the Coach for their appointment. Travel grants are available for those travelling 100 kilometers or more to access screening services on the Coach.

“Our schedule looks different this year but the screening services that we provide and our ability to screen remains the same,” emphasizes McConnell. “With less time spent travelling, we will be able to screen more individuals this season.”

Who should get screened?

Anyone who is eligible for breast, cervical, or colon cancer screening can visit the Coach. In Ontario, screening guidelines for average-risk individuals include:

Screening on the Coach is available at no cost for those with a valid OHIP card. A doctor or primary care practitioner’s referral is not required for average-risk individuals within the recommended screening age ranges.

“This schedule is a temporary approach for this year as plans for a new cancer screening bus are underway that will include a more robust destination schedule, with the goal to be operational in 2027,” continues McConnell. “We look forward to sharing more updates as the launch date approaches, and we thank the public for their patience and understanding as we do our best to make screening accessible for the region.”

Booking is now open for the Screen for Life Coach’s 2026 travel season. To book an appointment for breast, cervical, or colon cancer screening on the Coach in any of the hub communities, call (807) 684-7777. For more information about the Coach, including answers to frequently asked questions about this travel season, visit tbrhsc.net/screenforlife.

The Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC)’s Regional Cardiovascular Program fosters the development and delivery of collaborative care across Northwestern Ontario, supporting the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of people with conditions affecting the cardiac and vascular system.

TBRHSC provides cardiovascular services including Cardiac Diagnostics (ECHO, Stress Testing, ECG, Holter Monitor Clinic), Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, Pacemaker Clinic, Rapid Access Vascular Examination (RAVE) Clinic, Cardiovascular Rehabilitation, alongside the dedicated cardiac and vascular units where patients received specialized care. Across these services, highly skilled interdisciplinary teams work together to provide care and support the needs of patients and families from across Northwestern Ontario throughout their care journey. The team consists of registered nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, general and interventional cardiologists, vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists, cardiac sonographers, diagnostic medical sonographers, medical radiation technologists, data specialists, clinical nurse specialists, registered cardiology technologists, ECG technicians, registered respiratory therapists, respiratory aides, occupational therapists, kinesiologists, physiotherapists, registered dietitians, pharmacists, clerical and administrative staff along with clinical leaders across the program. TBRHSC’s Regional Cardiovascular Program strives to promote collaboration, partnership, and equitable access to care in the North.

The team responsible for developing the new Cardiovascular Surgery Program is working with internal and external partners to bring cardiac surgery to Northwestern Ontario, strengthening our ability to provide specialized care close to home. This work builds on a partnership that began in 2014 with University Health Network’s Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, using a “One Program Two Sites” model that supports shared standards, learning, and clinical expertise across teams. Phase 1 successfully introduced vascular surgery services at TBRHSC, and phase 2, now underway, focuses on launching cardiac surgery, creating new opportunities for staff growth, collaboration, and advanced practice.

“Our Regional Cardiovascular Program reflects our commitment to ensuring people across Northwestern Ontario can access high-quality, specialized cardiac and vascular care closer to home,” said Wayne Taylor, Director, Cardiovascular, Medicine and Renal Program at TBRHSC. “Through strong partnerships, interdisciplinary teamwork, and a clear focus on equity and collaboration, we are strengthening cardiovascular care across the region. The expansion of services, including the introduction of cardiac surgery, represents an important milestone for our organization and for the patients and families we serve, today and into the future.”

The expansion will include a new hybrid operating room, two operating rooms for open-heart surgery, a 14-bed Cardiovascular Surgery Unit, a six-bed Coronary Care Unit, a Cardiovascular Care Clinic and expansion of our Medical Device Reprocessing Department (MDRD) at TBRHSC. To support this expansion and the many people and families who access our services across Northwestern Ontario, the Program works closely with regional partners to promote collaborative design and equitable implementation across the region. Data guides quality improvement and service planning, supported by TBRHSC data specialists, while promoting evidence based best practice across the program. Together, the team is continuing to strengthen clinical services and regional presence to support exceptional care for every patient, every time.

For Heart Month, we caught up with Stephanie Needham, a Cardiovascular Data Specialist at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC), to get an inside look at the work the data team does and what makes their roles truly special.

Why did you decide to become a part of the Cardiovascular Services Data team?

The team of three consists of two registered nurses and one data analyst with a background in data analytics. We each came into the health care data world a bit differently.

For myself, I started from a cardiovascular surgery referral and procedure management aspect. I quickly saw the challenges posed when data was inconsistently collected or poorly understood, resulting in data quality issues affecting reporting outcomes. Understanding the data (including its limitations), what it is needed for, or how it will be used, is so important.

Tell us about your role.

We work to ensure the collection and analysis of quality data. The data is used internally for operational purposes (volumes, wait times, referral patterns, etc.) and externally to meet provincial reporting requirements (i.e. provincially mandated data collection by Ontario Health / CorHealth). We work closely with other departments at TBRHSC in Health Records and Decision Support to strengthen the data available as a whole. We also participate in a quality database for the Vascular program — the Society for Vascular Surgery Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI), which is an international registry program designed to improve the quality, safety and effectiveness of vascular care through benchmarking, long-term follow-up and regional quality improvement, with an overall aim of improving patient outcomes.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

One of the most challenging aspects of this work is taking the information out of the existing systems that staff utilize everyday and making it useful for administrative and operational purposes. We work hard to streamline processes and to minimize duplication in data collection for staff. We also work to ensure that data is replicable. The importance of understanding differences across available datasets both within the Hospital and outside is key when planning for the future.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your profession?

There are many rewards but in particular, when the data and associated information we provide is utilized to support discussion, decision making and quality improvement, to improve Hospital services and ultimately, the care provided to patients and families.

Any advice for those considering a career in health care?

Health care is diverse and has a great deal to offer, especially if you look beyond some of the more traditional roles. There is a great deal happening all the time behind the scenes to support the system and those on the front lines in the provision of exceptional care for every patient, every time.

We enter 2026 acknowledging the extraordinary commitment of our staff and physicians, volunteers and partners who continue to serve our community under significant pressure. The challenges faced over the holiday season were a record number of patient visits including an increase in acutely ill patients. In response, we adopted enhanced masking requirements. We continue to be dedicated to protecting our patients, families, and staff to ensure we have sufficient capacity during this influenza season.

The focus of this report is to celebrate our workforce and their commitment to the community. It is a testament to the culture of this organization that our teams continued to support our broader community. Staff participated in the annual food drive in support of St. Andrew’s Dew Drop Inn and the Emergency Department supported the Children’s Aid annual Christmas Wish Campaign. These are just a few of many examples of care and compassion even when stretched.

The Paediatric Emergency Transport Team (PETT) recently marked its one-year anniversary of its first paediatric transport. This highly skilled team collaborates with existing provincial transport teams and ORNGE to transport children (primarily under one year of age) to a higher level of care, either at TBRHSC or a specialized children’s hospital. This initiative drastically improves access to care and reduces wait times for these younger patients in need of critical care. Throughout last year, TBRHSC celebrated many inspiring and significant milestones that illustrated the unwavering commitment to our mission. I am deeply impressed with the ongoing advancements and the ingenuity of the dedicated teams who continually strive to elevate the care and services we provide to our communities. The collective efforts of our talented teams through innovative care delivery and community engagement enable us to go above and beyond to ensure care needs are met, while adapting to an ever changing health care environment. I invite you to learn more about these highlights of 2025 by reading HERE.

One final note, strong governance is required to navigate the challenges faced across healthcare in the North. To that end, TBRHSC’s Board of Directors is looking to fill four Board Director vacancies and two Committee vacancies. This is an incredible opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to health care for patients and families across Northwestern Ontario. The Board and its Committees help guide how care is delivered, how resources are stewarded, and how TBRHSC lives its commitment to equity, compassion, and accountability. Learn more on these opportunities by visiting our website:

Committee Community Member Volunteer Opportunity

Board of Directors Volunteer Opportunity

Today, in honour of World Cancer Day (February 4), we recognize the incredible work done by Regional Cancer Care Northwest at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.

From our clinical teams in the Cancer Clinic, Radiation Therapy, 1A Oncology, Paediatric Oncology, and on the Screen for Life Coach, to Prevention and Screening and Genetics staff, your dedication makes a real difference in cancer prevention, early detection, and care.

This World Cancer Day reminds us of the power of working together. We are proud to highlight the people behind the departments, whose commitment helps patients and communities access screening, resources, and support every day. Thank you for your ongoing work to improve outcomes and inspire hope across the region.

For more information about World Cancer Day, including a full listing of webinars and events, visit worldcancerday.org.

For more information about Regional Cancer Care Northwest, visit tbrhsc.net/cancercare.

February is Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of cardiovascular health and an opportunity to focus on what we can do to improve our heart health. Heart disease impacts almost all of us at some point in our lives, either indirectly or directly. It is the second leading cause of death for both men and women in Canada.

Prevention is key in reducing the risk of heart and cardiovascular disease. Adopting healthy habits such as staying physically active, maintaining a balanced diet, limiting highly processed foods, avoiding smoking, prioritizing quality sleep and managing stress can significantly support heart health and overall well-being.

This month is an excellent time to reflect and take steps to making positive and healthy choices for today and into the future. These choices can include taking small steps laid out in the 24-hour movement guidelines:

Together, we can make healthy living a priority and work towards improving our cardiovascular health.

There’s still time to provide your feedback for Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre’s (TBRHSC) Black Health Action Plan.

The Black Health Action Plan is a commitment to improve healthcare experiences and outcomes for Black communities, through practical actions that aim to make the healthcare system more inclusive, culturally relevant, and accountable to the needs of Black people.

This survey is voluntary and will be kept strictly confidential. Please do not identify yourself in your responses, or share any Personal Health Information (PHI).

You can complete the survey by visiting https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TT958G6 by February 6, 2026. Alternative formats of the survey can be requested by emailing TBRHSC.EDISteeringCommittee@tbh.net or by calling (807) 684-6396.

Sondage sur le plan pour la santé des Noirs

Il n’est pas trop tard pour faire part de vos commentaires pour le plan pour la santé des Noirs du CRSSTB.

Le plan pour la santé des Noirs est un engagement visant à améliorer les expériences et les résultats en matière de soins de santé pour les communautés noires, et ce, grâce à des mesures concrètes qui favorisent un système de santé plus inclusif, plus adapté à la culture et plus responsable à l’égard des besoins des personnes noires.

Votre participation est volontaire et vos réponses demeureront strictement confidentielles. Ne vous identifiez pas et ne fournissez aucun renseignement personnel sur la santé à votre sujet. Vous pouvez répondre au sondage au https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JLCFLMT d’ici le 6 février 2026. Vous pouvez obtenir le sondage dans d’autres formats en écrivant au TBRHSC.EDISteeringCommittee@tbh.net ou en composant le 807 684-6396.

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre is inviting residents of Northwestern Ontario to consider serving on its Board of Directors — because you care about the future of health care in our region. Nearly every person in our community passes through the doors of Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre at some point whether as a patient, a family member, a caregiver, or a supporter. Those moments matter. And the decisions behind them matter too.

This is an opportunity to contribute your perspective, your judgment, and your commitment to something that truly affects every corner of our community: exceptional care for every patient, every time.

Why This Matters

As the only tertiary health sciences centre in Northwestern Ontario, Thunder Bay Regional plays a critical role in caring for more than 245,000 people across a vast region. The Board helps guide how care is delivered, how resources are stewarded, and how the organization lives its commitment to equity, compassion, and accountability — today and into the future.

Board members help ensure:

You don’t need to work in health care to make a difference here. You do need a willingness to listen, to learn, and to contribute thoughtfully to complex and meaningful conversations.

Who We’re Looking For

As a skills-based Board, Thunder Bay Regional is seeking to fill 4 volunteer Board positions with individuals who:

Applicants who bring governance experience in law, finance, or Indigenous health are especially encouraged to apply. Experience in regional and francophone communities is an asset.

What to Expect

Board members are appointed for a three-year term and are expected to participate actively in governance activities, including Board and Committee meetings and ongoing learning.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and letter of interest by Friday, February 13, 2026 to:

Chair, Governance and Nominating Committee
c/o President’s Office
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre
980 Oliver Road
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 6V4
TBRHSC.BoardChair@tbh.net
www.tbrhsc.net

Contribuez à l’avenir des soins prodigués dans le Nord-Ouest de l’Ontario: Possibilité de bénévolat au sein du conseil d’administration

Le Centre régional des sciences de la santé de Thunder Bay (CRSSTB) invite les résidents du Nord-Ouest de l’Ontario qui ont à coeur l’avenir des soins de santé dans la région à siéger à son conseil d’administration. Presque tous les membres de la communauté se rendront au CRSSTB à un moment ou un autre, que ce soit pour y recevoir des soins, rendre visite à un membre de la famille ou l’aider à se rétablir, ou encore pour soutenir le Centre. Tous ces moments sont importants, comme le sont les décisions prises à cet égard.

Nous vous offrons la possibilité de nous faire part de votre point de vue et de mettre en avant votre expérience et votre engagement à l’égard de notre vision qui touche tous les membres de la communauté et qui consiste à prodiguer des soins de qualité exceptionnelle à tous les patients, en tout temps.

Importance du CRSSTB

Le CRSSTB est le seul centre tertiaire des sciences de la santé dans le Nord-Ouest de l’Ontario. Il joue donc un rôle essentiel en servant plus de 245 000 personnes réparties dans un vaste territoire. Le conseil d’administration contribue à l’orientation des soins, à la gestion des ressources et au respect de l’engagement du Centre en matière d’équité, de compassion et de responsabilité, aujourd’hui et à l’avenir.

Les membres du conseil participent aux efforts déployés afin que:

Il n’est pas nécessaire de travailler dans le domaine des soins de santé pour apporter une contribution au Centre. Il suffit d’être prêt à écouter, à apprendre et à participer à des conversations complexes et importantes.

Ce que nous cherchons

Le conseil d’administration du CRSSTB mise sur les compétences. Il cherche quatre bénévoles qui:

Nous encourageons particulièrement les personnes ayant de l’expérience en gouvernance dans les domaines du droit, des finances ou de la santé des Autochtones à soumettre leur candidature. L’expérience en lien avec les communautés régionales et francophones est un atout.

Attentes

Les membres du conseil sont nommés pour un mandat de trois ans. On s’attend à ce qu’ils participent activement aux activités de gouvernance, aux réunions du conseil et des comités et aux formations continues.

Soumission des candidatures

Nous invitons les personnes intéressées à envoyer leur curriculum vitae et une lettre de présentation d’ici le vendredi 13 février 2026 à l’adresse suivante:

Président du comité de la gouvernance et des nominations
a/s Bureau du président
Centre régional des sciences de la santé de Thunder Bay
980, chemin Oliver
Thunder Bay (Ontario)
P7B 6V4
TBRHSC.BoardChair@tbh.net
www.tbrhsc.net

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre’s Board is inviting residents of Northwestern Ontario to consider serving as a Committee Community Member – because you care about the future of health care in our region. Nearly every person in our community passes through the doors of Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre at some point whether as a patient, a family member, a caregiver, or a supporter. Those moments matter. And the decisions behind them matter too.

This is an opportunity to contribute your perspective, your judgment, and your commitment to something that truly affects every corner of our community: exceptional care for every patient, every time.

Why This Matters

As the only tertiary health sciences centre in Northwestern Ontario, Thunder Bay Regional plays a critical role in caring for more than 245,000 people across a vast region. Committee Community members help the Board guide how care is delivered, how resources are stewarded, and how the organization lives its commitment to equity, compassion, and accountability — today
and into the future.

Committee Community members help ensure:

You don’t need to work in health care to make a difference here. You do need a willingness to listen, to learn, and to contribute thoughtfully to complex and meaningful conversations.

Who We’re Looking For

As a skills-based Board, Thunder Bay Regional is seeking to fill 2 volunteer Committee Community positions (Governance and Nominating Committee and Patient Safety & Quality Committee) with individuals who:

Experience in regional and francophone communities is an asset.

What to Expect

Committee Community members are appointed for a three-year term and are expected to participate actively in governance activities in Committee meetings and ongoing learning.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and letter of interest by Friday, February 13, 2026 to:

Chair, Governance and Nominating Committee
c/o President’s Office
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre
980 Oliver Road
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6V4
TBRHSC.BoardChair@tbh.net
www.tbrhsc.net

Contribuez à l’avenir des soins prodigués dans le Nord-Ouest de l’Ontario: Possibilité de bénévolat au sein du comité communautaire

Le conseil d’administration du Centre régional des sciences de la santé de Thunder Bay invite les résidents du NordOuest de l’Ontario qui ont à coeur l’avenir des soins de santé dans la région à devenir membres du comité communautaire. Presque tous les membres de la communauté se rendront au CRSSTB à un moment ou un autre, que ce soit pour y recevoir des soins, rendre visite à un membre de la famille ou l’aider à se rétablir, ou encore pour soutenir le Centre. Tous ces moments sont importants, comme le sont les décisions prises à cet égard.

Nous vous offrons la possibilité de nous faire part de votre point de vue et de mettre en avant votre expérience et votre engagement à l’égard de notre vision qui touche tous les membres de la communauté et qui consiste à prodiguer des soins de qualité exceptionnelle à tous les patients, en tout temps.

Importance du CRSSTB

Le CRSSTB est le seul centre tertiaire des sciences de la santé dans le Nord-Ouest de l’Ontario. Il joue donc un rôle essentiel en servant plus de 245 000 personnes réparties dans un vaste territoire. Les membres du comité communautaire aident le conseil d’administration à orienter la prestation des soins, à gérer les ressources et à respecter l’engagement du Centre en matière d’équité, de compassion et de responsabilité, aujourd’hui et à l’avenir.

Les membres du comité communautaire participent aux efforts déployés afin que:

Ce que nous cherchons

Le conseil d’administration du CRSSTB mise sur les compétences. Il cherche deux bénévoles qui siégeront au comité communautaire (comité de la gouvernance et des nominations et comité de la sécurité des patients et de la qualité) et qui:

L’expérience en lien avec les communautés régionales et francophones est un atout.

Attentes

Les membres du comité communautaire sont nommés pour un mandat de trois ans. On s’attend à ce qu’ils participent activement aux activités de gouvernance, aux réunions du comité et aux formations continues.

Soumission des candidatures

Nous invitons les personnes intéressées à envoyer leur curriculum vitae et une lettre de présentation d’ici le vendredi 13 février 2026 à l’adresse suivante :

Président du comité de la gouvernance et des nominations
a/s Bureau du président
Centre régional des sciences de la santé de Thunder Bay
980, chemin Oliver
Thunder Bay (Ontario), P7B 6V4
TBRHSC.BoardChair@tbh.net
www.tbrhsc.net

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) is currently conducting a survey to better understand the healthcare needs of Black people within our region, in order to develop a Black Health Action Plan that is in alignment with Ontario Health.

The Black Health Action Plan is a commitment to improve healthcare experiences and outcomes for Black communities, through practical actions that aim to make the healthcare system more inclusive, culturally relevant, and accountable to the needs of Black people.

We would like to invite you to participate. This survey is voluntary and will be kept strictly confidential. Please do not identify yourself in your responses, or share any Personal Health Information (PHI). This information will be used internally at TBRHSC for the purposes of quality improvement.

By sharing your perspectives, you are helping to shape actions that aim to improve access to care, quality of services, and overall health outcomes for Black communities in our region.

Visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TT958G6 to complete the survey by February 6, 2026. Alternative formats of the survey can be requested by emailing TBRHSC.EDISteeringCommittee@tbh.net or by calling (807) 684-6396.

Sondage sur le plan pour la santé des Noirs

Le Centre régional des sciences de la santé de Thunder Bay (CRSSTB) réalise une enquête afin de mieux comprendre les besoins des personnes noires en matière de soins de santé dans notre communauté. Les résultats de l’enquête serviront à élaborer un plan pour la santé des Noirs qui est conforme au plan de Santé Ontario.

Le plan pour la santé des Noirs est un engagement visant à améliorer les expériences et les résultats en matière de soins de santé pour les communautés noires, et ce, grâce à des mesures concrètes qui favorisent un système de santé plus inclusif, plus adapté à la culture et plus responsable à l’égard des besoins des personnes noires.

Nous vous invitons à répondre au sondage. Votre participation est volontaire et vos réponses demeureront strictement confidentielles. Ne vous identifiez pas et ne fournissez aucun renseignement personnel sur la santé à votre sujet. Les renseignements seront utilisés à l’interne par le CRSSTB aux fins d’amélioration de la qualité.

Vos réponses nous aideront à établir des mesures pour améliorer l’accès aux soins, la qualité des services ainsi que les résultats en matière de soins de santé pour les communautés noires de notre région.

Rendez-vous au CRSSTB/IRRSTB : enquête sur l’équité en santé Survey pour répondre au sondage d’ici le 6 février 2026.

Vous pouvez obtenir le sondage dans d’autres formats en écrivant au TBRHSC.EDISteeringCommittee@tbh.net ou en composant le 807 684-6396.

Originally published in the January 2026 edition of the Ontario Hospital Association’s Health System News

At the heart of patient and family centred care are the people who make it happen. From the front line to the behind-the-scenes teams, everyone has a role in supporting Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC)‘s vision of exceptional care for every patient, every time. The Communications and Engagement team’s role is to highlight this important work, ensuring that the voices, stories, and successes across our organization are seen and celebrated. 

Telling the Stories That Matter

Every department has a story, including the essential teams moving the day-to-day Hospital operations forward. Throughout a recent campaign, with staff spotlights, feature stories and social media content, Communications and Engagement worked to highlight how teams across the organization (including Maintenance, Portering, Housekeeping, and Simulation Lab) are living TBRHSC values and advancing care. 

Building Connections Through Recognition

Recognizing the efforts of our colleagues fosters a culture of pride, collaboration, and shared purpose. Highlighting the work of different teams and individuals reinforces our collective commitment to quality care and continuous improvement and while helping staff feel valued.

Collaborating Across Departments

The Communications and Engagement team regularly connects with clinical and non-clinical departments to uncover stories that reflect the diversity of experiences in our health care and research environments. Whether it is a new initiative to support patient and family input, a staff-led wellness program, or an innovative approach to communication with patients, our goal is to shine a light on meaningful work that supports healing and connection.

Meet the Team

This small but mighty team includes Communications Specialist and Project Lead, Raiili Pellizzari, who develops engaging communications that support patient care, staff engagement, and organizational priorities by collaborating across departments to share stories and promote initiatives. 

Cultural Communications Specialist, Gina Fata, supports effective communications that promote the strategic priority of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, using her knowledge and experience in cultural awareness to ensure communication materials, activities, and initiatives are meaningful to and reflective of diverse cultural audiences within the organization and throughout Northwestern Ontario. 

Senior Graphic Designer, Steve Coghill, brings communications materials to life by creating clear, accessible, and engaging visual assets that support patient care, staff communication, and community outreach. 

The team is led by Manager of Communications and Engagement, Marcello Bernardo, who guides strategic communication efforts that inform, engage, and connect staff, patients, and the community in alignment with the Hospital’s values.

Engaging Our Staff and Community

Through various media, including a daily electronic newsletter, video storytelling, digital signage, and social media outreach, the Communications and Engagement team bring stories to life for both internal and external audiences. The goal is to inform and inspire; to show how each person’s contributions matter and how, together, we make a difference. 

A friendly reminder for patients, their families, and the community:

Parking in any of Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC)’s visitor lots is FREE for stays of 30 minutes or less. Simply present your ticket at the exit, and the gate will open automatically with no payment required.

If the main drop-off or pick-up zone is congested, the Moose (B2) lot offers a convenient alternative for short-term waiting.

For more information about parking at TBRHSC, click HERE.

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