As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting virtual care for patients when and where they need it, the South Georgian Bay Ontario Health Team has been working closely with Ontario Health in implementing and developing the first phase of the Ontario Health Clinically Appropriate Use of Virtual Care - Guidance for Primary Care.

The purpose of this provincial guidance document is:

• Improving patient, doctor and clinical staff experience when using virtual care (telephone or video) when providing or receiving care.
• Improving patient and clinician experience in using virtual primary care in Ontario.
• Establishing a foundation for developing more virtual care guidelines across Ontario.

Are you a patient with an upcoming telephone or virtual appointment?

Learn how to prepare for your virtual visit by going to our website: 

Are you a primary care provider in South Georgian Bay?

Find information on supporting patients in having a successful and secure virtual visit on our website:

We are excited to announce the launch of our SGB OHT Navigation Supports to connect you with the local services you need.

Simply fill out our online form and our health system navigator will be in touch!

A recent leadership survey of Ontario Health Teams (OHTs) from across the province shows the South Georgian Bay Ontario Health Team (SGB OHT) is leading the way in integrating care for patients in South Georgian Bay. The survey asked all OHT leadership groups, from CEOs of organizations to patients, families or caregivers to share their experience with the South Georgian Bay OHT on things that would help the OHT reach its goal of integrated health and social service care. 

“When we’re thinking about integrated care, what we’re trying to accomplish is health and social care that is more connected to patients in our local communities,” says Dr. Harry O’Halloran, SGB OHT Co-Chair. “This survey was important because it shows us that we’re doing exceptionally well in South Georgian Bay. We have built a network of strong, collaborative relationships that enable us to come together in times of need and really ensure that we can provide the best possible health and social service care in our community.” 

The South Georgian Bay Ontario Health Team (SGB OHT), Digital Health and Innovation Team, under the leadership of Dr. James Lane, received a 2022 OntarioMD (OMD) Luminary Award. The award recognizes individuals and teams that demonstrate leadership and innovation in the use of digital and virtual health care tools.

“Digital health is a key priority for the SGB OHT because it allows patients and caregivers to access online tools enabling them to feel more connected and have improved access and quality of health and social service care,” says Dr. James Lane, family physician and SGB OHT Digital Lead. “It also allows health service providers to streamline their workflow, enables easier access to information when and where they need it, and is a more efficient way of delivering services.”