Our Role
What is the role of public health in local Hubs?
Local public health and Public Health Ontario (PHO) are key partners in each local IPAC Hub. Working in coordination with the IPAC Hub, public health partners will support the provision of IPAC knowledge, training and expertise, building on existing local partnerships.
In addition to contributing to IPAC Hubs as experts, the local public health unit retains the responsibility to oversee the management of outbreaks. Local public health units also have a key linkage to Ministry of Labour, Training, and Skills Development (MLTSD), but does not replace the duties employers of congregate living organizations have to notify the MLTSD as required under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1990 and other relevant requirements.
What do other system partners need to know?
There are many structures and organizations that support COVID-19 readiness and response activities within the sectors represented by congregate living organizations. These include regulatory bodies and municipal service managers. Some of these system partners have mandates that support or partially overlap with IPAC Hubs.
Given the differences among the organizations and regulatory frameworks of each sector, other system partners should contact their regular ministry program lead to learn how they can support the work of the local IPAC Hubs and local sector specific partners.