Toronto Stroke Networks’ Annual Forum 2013

The Toronto Stroke Networks (TSNs) held a very successful Annual Forum on December 3rd, 2013.

There were 105 registrants with cross continuum representation from organizations providing stroke care related services within the TSNs (North & East GTA Stroke Network, South East Toronto Stroke Network and Toronto West Stroke Network).

The objectives of this day included:

1.  Obtaining input on priorities and emerging issues for strategic planning

2.  Profiling stroke system accomplishments over the past year

3.  Showcasing current best practice initiatives  and innovations

4.  Strengthening engagement and collaboration among stakeholders

Representatives from Central, Central East, Toronto Central and Waterloo Wellington LHINs were on hand to speak about their LHIN priorities and next steps related to stroke care, including what is being done to support organizations in Quality Based Procedures implementation. Monika Kastner a Senior Scientist at the Li Ka Shing Institute spoke on creating a culture of positive change utilizing knowledge translation and partner engagement strategies. To close the day, Michael Stewart from the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care provided an overview of the Health System Funding Reform and how it will impact the quality of care provided to persons living with stroke.

Stakeholders identified the need for ongoing attention to:  the patient experience including transition support along the continuum and availability of appropriate services within the community to enable achievement of targets that have been identified for acute and rehab organizations.  The TSNs will be using the full dataset of comments and results generated from the day to inform their 2014-2015 workplan. For copies of these presentations, please visit our TSNs Virtual Community of Practice (VCoP) website: www.strokecommunity.ca.