Community and Public Health

Community health focuses on the needs of communities who might otherwise not receive proper health care. New immigrants and refugees are one of these communities.

What is Public Health?
There are 36 public health units in Ontario. They provide both direct services and health education programs.

What are community health centres?
Community Health Centres (CHCs) are non-profit organizations that provide health care to all people who might otherwise have difficulty getting the help they need. For newcomers to Ontario, barriers to proper health care can include language, low income, cultural sensitivities and immigration or refugee status.

What is community-based health care?
The community care system in Ontario provides health care to people of all ages who require assistance but want to stay in their homes rather than go to a hospital or other institution.

How can I get medical help if I don't have a family doctor?
If you do not have a family doctor or you cannot get an appointment with your doctor, you can go to a walk-in medical clinic.

How do I avoid summer heat stress?
High temperatures and humidity can cause cause heat stroke. You can help prevent heat stroke by following these simple tips.

Sun Safety in the Summer
No one is completely safe from the sun. Over time, exposure to UV rays of the sun can cause skin cancer. These tips can help you stay sun-safe.

What should I know about West Nile virus?
The West Nile virus is an illness that spreads from mosquitoes to humans. You can do simple things to protect yourself from West Nile virus.

What should I know about the Flu Shot?
Influenza (“the flu”) is a serious illness that normally infects the nose, throat and lungs. People who live, work or attend school in Ontario can get vaccinated for free.

Where can I get information on vaccinations and immunizations?
For local information on vaccinations and immunizations, look in the blue pages of the telephone directory, under the Municipal (city or town) Government, for “Health - General Inquiry” or “Immunization Information”.

Where can I find help as a pregnant woman arriving in Ontario (health services, support groups)?
Many organizations provide services for pregnant women in communities across Ontario. You can find services and support in newcomer-serving organizations, community-based non-profit organizations, community health services offered by the city or regional government, community centres, and hospitals.

What services are available for victims of torture?
Refugees often require special counselling to repair the physical and psychological damage produced by these experiences. The Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture (CCVT) is a non-profit organization of doctors, lawyers, social workers and community groups that helps victims to integrate successfully into Canadian society.

Community and Public Health

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