The Oxford OHT is committed to creating a local health system where everyone has a fair chance to be healthy. Our Health Equity Position Statement was developed together by our Health Equity Community of Practice and our Community Council, which includes voices from across Oxford County.
This statement is an important and foundational step in our journey. It builds on our shared vision and guides how we will work to remove barriers to care and better support people who are often left behind. It was officially adopted by our Leadership and Strategy Council on May 26, 2025.
Health equity means every individual has a fair opportunity to be as healthy as possible. The Oxford Ontario Health Team (OHT) is committed to embedding health equity into all aspects of our work, ensuring that care is accessible, inclusive, and culturally sensitive.
Our approach aligns with Ontario Health’s Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism Framework, while also recognizing the importance of anti-oppression, Indigenous cultural safety, and community-led collaboration.
To advance health equity, the Oxford OHT will:
- Apply a health equity lens to all OHT-led projects, ensuring services meet the diverse needs of our communities and populations.
- Address barriers to health, including social determinants of health by fostering collaboration across health, social and community sectors to reduce disparities.
- Strengthen partnerships with community organizations and those with lived experience.
- Embed anti-racism, cultural humility, and Indigenous cultural safety awareness into policies, training, and decision-making.
- Ensure meaningful community engagement so all voices have the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare.
By taking these steps, we aim to build a healthcare system that is fair, welcoming, and responsive to the needs of our community.
