What are the core elements that embody a regional maternal-child health network and how will they be used to improve health outcomes in perinatal and paediatric care in Ontario?
Ontario’s six regional maternal-child health networks (“regional networks”) are designed to strengthen linkages among maternal-child healthcare providers and other organizations across Ontario. In 2023, the regional networks – through the Regional Networks Operational Forum (RNOF) – developed a shared vision of their desired future. This included articulation of the core elements of a network, including features and functions that can be fairly expected of every network to ensure consistency across the province.
Through a series of discussions facilitated by PCMCH, the regional networks developed three core elements related to network structure (governance and accountability, leadership and human resources, and funding) and three related to network function (partnerships and relationship building, service delivery, and performance measurement).
Establishing governance and accountability
As part of the core elements related to network structure, the networks developed a governance model comprised of an oversight table with representatives from diverse organizations within their geographic region. Each network also has a designated leader to manage activities and drive Ministry-funded initiatives tailored to the specific needs of their catchment areas.
Laura Zahreddine, Senior Program Manager at PCMCH, sheds light on the network model:
“With the diverse membership at RNOF, which includes Ministry of Health and regional Ontario Health representatives, we collaboratively discuss opportunities to align network structures and determine what, if any, additional resourcing is required to ensure networks are supported in meeting expectations outlined in the functions of the core elements.”
Building connections and relationships
As outlined in the core elements, the regional networks will strive to connect and coordinate care providers and build strong partnerships with healthcare professionals and community members. These relationships, which also include local, regional, and provincial entities such as Ontario Health, Ontario Health Teams, BORN Ontario, Public Health Ontario and PCMCH, support the provision of equitable care for the perinatal, newborn, and paediatric populations of their regions.
Kerri Hannon, Executive Director of Maternal Newborn Child and Youth Network (MNCYN), and Co-Chair of RNOF, elaborates:
“The role of MNCYN as a connector between system partners in the Southwest region for over four decades underscores the importance of relationships and networks in the future of healthcare across the province. The interconnected nature of healthcare networks like those represented at the RNOF brings numerous benefits, particularly in terms of system standardization and resource sharing across programs that will ultimately improve the quality of care for families in Ontario.”
The path forward
Coupled with the guidance of PCMCH and through the support of the Ministry and Ontario Health resources, the core elements identify the path forward and will enable the regional networks to continue bolstering maternal-child healthcare access, outcomes, and experiences across Ontario.
Natalie Kennedy, Steering Committee Co-Chair of the Northern Maternal Child Network, and Co-Chair of RNOF explains:
“We are very fortunate to have such strong and passionate leaders within RNOF; their shared vision led to the development of the core elements, which will drive improvements within our systems. Working collaboratively and with the core elements as our roadmap is how we will help strengthen and improve maternal-child healthcare within our province.”
Learn more about the core elements of the regional networks. Stay tuned for more articles on the regional networks in upcoming editions of Milestones.