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News and Events
Health Centre Accepting Clients
The Seaway Valley Community Health Centre (SVCHC) officially opened today. Approximately 200 guests toured the new 11,500 square foot health care facility following a brief ceremony and ribbon cutting ceremony.
The SVCHC represents a different approach to delivering health care as it is designed to meet the needs of residents who typically face barriers to accessing health care.
"It's about taking care of our day-to-day health needs, as well as promoting a healthier, stronger and more sustainable community," said Debbie St John-de Wit, the Centre's Executive Director.
It's been almost a decade since the notion of a new community health centre for Cornwall was first conceptualized. Incorporated in February 2005, a dedicated and passionate community-governed, volunteer Board of Directors began evaluating the community's health needs in order to develop a customized primary health care delivery model. The planning process involved several community engagement sessions and meetings. In 2007, the Board of Directors received approval from the Ministry of Health to proceed with the feasibility study, and in 2009 the Ministry approved for the construction of a new centre. In August 2010, the new building was completed and is now open to greet new clients at 353 Pitt Street, in Downtown Cornwall.
SVCHC is equipped to provide primary health care, health promotion, education and community development programs through an inter-professional team of physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, social worker, health educator/ promoter, community development worker, dietician and more.
As the Community Health Centre is not a walk-in clinic, clients must be registered to the centre to access the physician or nurse practitioner services, however, anyone in the community can make an appointment to benefit from the education and health promotion, community development and client support services such as social worker or dietician.
"We've worked hard to realize this dream which is now a reality", said Blake Barry, the Chair of the Board of Directors. "Our efforts are about to pay off. Together, we will work with our community partners to build a healthier community."
The SVCHC is funded 100% by the Champlain Local Health Integration Network and is open from Monday to Friday, 8:30 to 4:30. The Centre plans to introduce extended evening hours in the near future. For more information, call 613-936-0306 or visit their website at www.seawayvalleychc.ca.
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