Deep River and District Health (DRDH) is inviting local residents to participate in a community needs assessment aimed at gathering valuable feedback to help shape the future of healthcare services in the region. This assessment comes as DRDH embarks on two major capital projects that will bring new spaces to the Four Seasons Lodge Long-Term Care Home and the North Renfrew Family Health Team building.
With these new spaces becoming available, DRDH sees an opportunity to repurpose them to offer new services, enhance existing programs, or address healthcare needs that are currently unmet. The organization is hosting a series of community input sessions to gather insights directly from the public and ensure that future healthcare offerings align with the needs of the community.
“Our community’s voice is essential to our planning process,” said Janna Hotson, President and CEO of DRDH. “By engaging directly with residents, patients, and families, we aim to ensure that our future services meet the needs and expectations of those who rely on us most.”
The needs assessment will take place throughout November, alongside the Ottawa Valley Ontario Health Team’s regional data collection efforts. The feedback gathered will play a critical role in shaping DRDH’s strategic direction over the next few years.
Three community input sessions will be held: November 18, at the Deep River Library from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., November 19, at the Chalk River Legion from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., and November 20, at the Petawawa Civic Centre from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. (Co-hosted with the Petawawa Centennial Family Health Centre).
Each session will feature a brief presentation from DRDH’s executive leadership team, followed by a facilitated workshop designed to collect ideas, identify local healthcare gaps, and explore opportunities for the future.
Community members interested in attending can register in advance by visiting www.drdh.org and selecting the “In the Spotlight” section, emailing assistance@drdh.org, or calling 613-584-3333 x 7100.
This is a vital opportunity for residents to have their say and contribute to the ongoing development of healthcare services in the Deep River and surrounding areas.
(Written by: Emma Butler)