2023 - Report to the Community - Back to Basics

A Message from the Board of Health Chair

In 2023, we transitioned from our emergency response to the COVID-19 global pandemic and refocused on restoring our core public health work. This includes population health assessment, health surveillance, health protection, disease and injury prevention, health promotion, as well as emergency preparedness and response.

This report to the community incorporates a public health balanced scorecard approach to capture the work of our programs as we prioritize the health needs of our community. A balanced scorecard approach helps us monitor our programs in four key areas: health status, community engagement, resources and services, and system integration and responsiveness. By using this structured approach, we can effectively measure our progress, identify areas for prioritization, development and improvement, and make informed decisions to grow our workforce, advance partnerships and ultimately enhance health outcomes for everyone in our community.

One highlight from 2023 was our collaboration with Indigenous partners to create a more welcoming, safer, and more culturally humble environment. We included Anishinaabemowin and Illilimowin on our external signage to show respect for the original languages of this land, helping Indigenous clients feel more comfortable accessing public health services. This effort is part of APH’s broader Indigenous engagement strategy, focusing on Respect, Commitment, Trust, and Self-Determination, all aimed at the shared goal of Truth and Reconciliation.

This report showcases the breadth of the work we do across the Algoma region to promote and protect community health. As we get back to basics, we remain steadfast in our vision: health for all, together.

Sally Hagman
Chair, Board of Health

Dr. Jennifer Loo
Medical Officer of Health/CEO


Read the full report: Back to Basics: Public Health at Work in Algoma - 2023 Report to the Community (PDF)