Vitalité Health Network focuses on community development

Vitalité Health Network, May 27, 2024 – On May 21 and 22, Vitalité Health Network held two working days bringing together regional service commission representatives and health professionals from some key sectors, including public health, primary health care, performance, and planning and engagement.

This initiative, with nearly 70 participants in attendance, was an opportunity for dialogue and training on the topic of community development in the service of people’s health and wellness.

The discussions focused on building community capacity, strengthening partnerships and links, and improving access to services and information.

"The training offered by Vitalité was very relevant and appropriate for our clientele. Offering this same training to municipalities and community groups within our respective communities would strengthen our community capacities and give people a greater say in decision-making processes," pointed out Paul Lang, Executive Director of the Kent RSC.

The event was part of the community outreach being undertaken by the Network, which is committed to supporting stakeholder participation in identifying community assets, strengths and needs and in establishing local priorities.

"The complexity of the challenges we face requires us to leverage collective intelligence and work collaboratively. Our communities have tremendous assets and resilience, and it's only by reaching out to our communities that we will be able to improve the health of the population," explained Charline Morrison, Corporate Director of Engagement at Vitalité Health Network.

Collaboration with decision-makers and residents in the thirteen regions served by the Network will continue, based on the learning-communities model. This model aims to mobilize the stakeholders within a community to commit to initiatives designed to strengthen the community’s assets and meet its health needs.

from left to right: Émilie Warren, Acting Manager, Community Health Needs Assessments; Marie-Josée Roussel, Manager of Hospital Activities, Lamèque Hospital and Community Health Centre; Stéphanie Roy, Corporate Director, Primary Health Care, Palliative Approach and Integrated End-of-Life Care; Mélanie Ruest, Acting Executive Director, Northwest Regional Services Commission; July Synnott, Engagement and Change Management Consultant; Annie Roussel, Public Health Assistant Director; Joanie Gagnon, Director, Organizational Planning.

From left to right: Émilie Warren, Acting Manager, Community Health Needs Assessments; Marie-Josée Roussel, Manager of Hospital Activities, Lamèque Hospital and Community Health Centre; Stéphanie Roy, Corporate Director, Primary Health Care, Palliative Approach and Integrated End-of-Life Care; Mélanie Ruest, Acting Executive Director, Northwest Regional Services Commission; July Synnott, Engagement and Change Management Consultant; Annie Roussel, Public Health Assistant Director; Joanie Gagnon, Director, Organizational Planning.