The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care defines a Family Health Team (FHT) as: "...an approach to primary health care that brings together different health care providers to co-ordinate the highest possible quality of care for you - the patient. Designed to give doctors support from other complementary professionals, most Family Health Teams will consist of doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners and other health care professionals who work collaboratively, each utilizing their experience and skills so that you receive the very best care, when you need it, as close to home as possible."
The Medical Centre Family Health Team provides comprehensive primary healthcare and focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and chronic disease management through our multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers. Our FHT is composed of Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Registered Nurses, Registered Dietitian, Social Workers and Pharmacists working together as a team to enhance the care of our patients.
NP's are uniquely trained with advanced practice skills to meet the increasing demand for primary health care services. NP's work with your physician to:
Perform a wide variety of assessments such as pap tests, breast exams, prenatal care, elder care and well baby visit check-ups
Deliver immunization and vaccination programs
Conduct physical examinations
Order and interpret diagnostic and laboratory tests
Diagnose and treat acute illnesses, chronic diseases, infections and injuries
Dispense and administer medications and treatments
Registered Nurses (RN)
RN's are key members of the FHT as they develop programs and services tailored to the needs of the patients. The RNs work closely with your physician and FHT Social Workers, Registered Dietitians and Pharmacists to navigate your health care needs, by providing clinical assessment and treatment. RN's work closely with your Family Physician to:
Perform assessments and obtain medical histories
Administer injections and vaccinations
Deliver health education on an array of issues, such as blood pressure, diabetes, smoking cessation, heart health, diet and cholesterol levels
Respond to your questions over the telephone regarding infections, symptoms and test results
Registered Dietitians (RD)
RD's are highly trained experts in food and human nutrition who have completed a 4-year university degree specializing in food and nutrition. They are also required to complete a 1-year accredited internship and/or graduate degree. They are licensed professionals by the College of Dietitians of Ontario as “registered dietitians” protected by the law.
Our Registered Dietitian can help you put nutrition and lifestyle changes into action for better health through individual counselling and group workshops. She will work collaboratively with other health care professionals within the Medical Centre Family Health Team to improve your nutritional health in the following areas and more:
Our Mental Health Clinicians provide short term counselling, advocacy, and community referrals in regards to a wide array of issues such as anxiety, depression, or any psychosocial stresses. The Social Worker can:
Maximize your functioning and independence by providing psychotherapeutic counselling services (in individual or family formats)
Advocate on your behalf within the healthcare community to assist and facilitate further support
Provide you with information on community resources and facilitate access to these resources
Pharmacy Services
Our Pharmacists are trained professionals who work with your Physician to ensure the most appropriate use of medications to improve your health. They are able to work with you to address a broad range of issues, which may include:
Individual medication reviews to simplify medications, ensure compatibility, and determine appropriate dosing times
Educate you on how to manage or prevent side effects from your medications
Manage your medication list, which may be needed if you've had changes due to a recent hospital visit or a similar situation. The Pharmacists are available to answer any medication related questions you may have.
