The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR District Health Unit) has released its 2023 Annual Report, highlighting significant progress and achievements. The report provides an in-depth look at program and service delivery stories, statistics, and a financial overview.
In 2023, the HKPR District Health Unit successfully resumed many essential services as COVID-19-related activities decreased. Key initiatives included the enforcement of the Immunization of School Pupils Act in the fall, updating over 6,000 student immunization records, and completing dental screenings for more than 5,000 students after years of limited assessments.
A major focus in 2023 was addressing the ongoing drug poisoning crisis. The HKPR District Health Unit worked to reinvigorate the Haliburton, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland (HKLN) Drug Strategy, collaborating with various organizations to implement data-driven actions and policies. The distribution of 3,271 Naloxone kits played a crucial role in this effort.
The Healthy Families team launched the Nurse Family Partnership program to support young first-time families facing socio-economic challenges. They also addressed post-pandemic mental health issues with targeted perinatal mental health interventions.
“My gratitude extends to all our employees at the HKPR District Health Unit, from front line workers, managers, and our leadership team for their continued commitment to their work despite adversity,” said Dr. Natalie Bocking, Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer for the HKPR District Health Unit. “Additionally, I would also like to acknowledge and thank the members of the Board of Health for their continued support and guidance.”
Additional highlights from the report include over 2,000 food premise inspections, nearly 800 reduced-cost rabies vaccinations, and support for over 1,100 families through the Healthy Babies Healthy Children program. The report also outlines progress toward the 2019-2024 Strategic Plan, emphasizing leadership development, cultural competency, and enhancing customer experience standards.
To read the report for yourself, visit: Annual Report | HKPR District Health Unit
(Written by Joseph Goden)