27 Sep Understanding the needs of our Englemount-Lawrence community

September 27, 2024

The North Toronto Ontario Health Team made strides in connecting with residents in Englemount-Lawrence during a recent community health fair.

“The event provided an opportunity to better understand the community’s needs,” explains Kitty Liu, Director, North Toronto Ontario Health Team. “Our community partners connected patients with physicians and dental clinics, and shared information on community resources and mental health and addiction services.”

Partner organizations showcasing their programs and services included Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Baycrest, LOFT Community Services, Unison Health & Community Services, VHA Home HealthCare, Vibrant Healthcare Alliance, Heart Valve Voice Canada and North York Community House.

Dr. Amr Moustafa, a cardiologist with Sunnybrook’s Schulich Heart Program, performed stethoscope checks to screen attendees for heart valve disease. Of the 39 hearts he and his team listened to, three heart murmurs were detected.

“A stethoscope check is a vital first step in identifying valve disease,” says Dr. Moustafa. “The event was a great chance to identify patients at risk, and connect them with the care they need.”

Community members expressed appreciation for the event, mentioning it was engaging and informative.

Robin Martin, Member of Provincial Parliament for Eglinton-Lawrence, dropped by to speak with community members and partners, and had a quick heart check herself.