AOHC commissions a discussion paper on system integration as it affects CHCs

In early 2010 the AOHC Board and member agencies were increasingly becoming aware and facing issues associated with integration initiatives. From a brief scan of CHCs it was clear that the breadth and diversity of integration initiatives were broader and occurring more quickly than expected. The CHC model of care embraced 'integration' as one of its attributes and the MSAA called for CHCs to contemplate and pursue integrations. Examples were emerging including CHC mergers, CHC co-locations with other agencies, health and social service hub concepts, CHC-hospital collaborations, CHC-FHT collaborations. The MOHLTC and LHINS were undertaking an integration conference and there was a general sense that integration was happening without full understanding, and without principles and frameworks as a guide.

The AOHC commissioned a discussion paper on system integration as it affects CHCs. External consultants were engaged via an RFP process and KPMG was the successful respondent. Deliverables were to include:

• Explore a framework to better understand integration

• Identify principles and values to guide integration

• Assess the integration landscape

• Understand the LHIN perspective

• Develop potential next steps

The methodology included document review, a survey of CHCs, key informant interviews and focus groups.

Documents:

• Summary document (PDF)

• System Integration and Community Health Centres: final discussion paper KPMG, July 2010 (PDF)