Shared on behalf of St. Joseph’s Care Group

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Do you have a project that’s improving health outcomes in Northwestern Ontario? Whether it’s a research study, program evaluation, or quality improvement initiative, the 2026 Showcase of Health Research is your opportunity to share your impact and connect with others driving change across our region.

If you are interested in submitting your project to the 2026 Showcase of Health Research, refer to our Submission Guidelines flipbook.

Abstracts Due: Friday, November 21, 2025, at 11:59 PM
Event: 2026 Showcase of Health Research
Date: Friday, February 6, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: Italian Cultural Centre

The Showcase of Health Research celebrates the innovation and collaboration that make Northwestern Ontario’s health landscape so unique. Submissions are welcome from across the health sector, including academic researchers and healthcare professionals, as well as community organizations and students.

Learn more about the Showcase of Health Research: www.cahr.sjcg.net/about-showcase

Ready to submit your abstract to the 2026 Showcase of Health Research? www.redcap.link/showcase-abstract-submission

Don’t miss this opportunity to highlight your work, share your findings, and inspire others across Northwestern Ontario.

Submit your abstract today; the deadline is four weeks away!

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Ontario, yet almost 50% of those who are eligible for breast screening in Northwestern Ontario don’t get checked regularly. For some, it’s the fear of the unknown. For others, it’s not knowing when to start, how often to go, or whether their personal circumstances affect their eligibility.

To makes things easier, here are answers to some of the most common questions about breast cancer screening.

Who is eligible for breast screening in Ontario?

The Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) recommends that most eligible women, Two-Spirit, trans, and non-binary people ages 40 to 74 get a mammogram every two years.

You may qualify if you:

• have no breast cancer symptoms
• have no personal history of breast cancer
• have not had a mastectomy
• have not had a screening mammogram within the last 11 months
• (if transfeminine) have used feminizing hormones for at least five years in a row

If you are considered high risk, talk to your health care provider about your screening options.

What if I’m under 40 or over 74?

If you’re outside the OBSP age range, speak with your health care provider about your risk factors and whether screening is right for you.

Do I need a doctor’s referral for a mammogram?

If you’re between 40 and 74 and at average risk, you can book your own OBSP appointment without a referral.

How much does breast screening cost?

There is no cost for eligible individuals with a valid OHIP card.

How often should I be screened?

For those at average risk, a mammogram every two years is recommended. If you are high risk, you may need to be screened more often – your health care provider can provide you with more information.

How do I know if I’m due for a mammogram?

If you’ve screened before, you’ll receive a letter reminding you that it’s time to book again. If you think you might be due, you can call your nearest OBSP location to find out.

Where can I get a mammogram in Northwestern Ontario?

There are OBSP screening sites in Thunder Bay, Fort Frances, Kenora, and Sioux Lookout. The Screen for Life Coach, a mobile cancer screening bus, also visits rural, remote, and Indigenous communities throughout the region.

Can I get a mammogram if I have breast implants?

Yes. Technologists are trained to work with implants and use special techniques to ensure clear images.

What should I do to prepare for a mammogram?

Wear a loose-fitting top that buttons in the front. Avoid deodorants, antiperspirants, lotions, or powders on your chest or underarms the day of your mammogram, as they can interfere with imaging.

What happens if my mammogram shows something abnormal?

You may be called back for more tests, such as another mammogram, an ultrasound, or a biopsy, to get a clearer picture.

If you still have questions, your health care provider or nearest OBSP location can help. If you’re eligible, take that next step and book your mammogram. To learn more about where and how to book a mammogram nearest you, visit tbrhsc.net/breast-cancer-screening.

As part of our commitment to keeping staff engaged and informed on our Strategic Plan 2026, Strategy and Performance is sharing updates in alignment with the identified priorities: Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, Patient Experience, Staff Experience and Research, Innovation, & Learning.

The October 22, Operational Updates and Strategic Planning Meeting featured an update on Sustainable Future: Clinical Services Plan and was presented by Amy Carr, Director, Human Resources and Organizational Development and Andrea Raynak, Director, Nursing & Health Professions.

Visit the Strategic Plan 2026 page on the Hospital’s corporate intranet, where these presentations, along with other resources can be found.

Calling all Paediatric RNs – Join Our Regional Paediatric Program!

Are you ready to take your paediatric nursing skills beyond the hospital walls (virtually!) and into the communities of Northwestern Ontario? We are looking for Registered Nurses to join our Regional Paediatric Program and it could be YOU!

What You’ll Do:

You’ll support health care teams who are managing paediatric patients across Northwestern Ontario from local hospitals to remote nursing stations by providing virtual, real-time clinical support. From stabilizing emergencies to delivering education and supporting inter-facility transfers, you’ll be a trusted resource and vital link in the circle of care.

What Makes This Role Unique?

• You’re not confined to four walls—you’ll be reaching across the region (virtually!)
• You’ll work closely with our amazing paediatricians and Paediatric Emergency Transport Team
• You’ll empower local care providers with mentorship, clinical expertise and compassion
• You’ll be part of an exciting new program modeled after our RCCR program!

You’re a Fit If You:

• Are passionate about paediatrics and health equity
• Have three or more years of current paediatic clinical experience in acute care settings
• Have exceptional critical thinking abilities, advanced knowledge and skills in paediatric nursing and work well under pressure in critical settings
• Thrive in a collaborative, tech-enabled environment
• Want to make a real difference for kids and families in underserved areas
• Have  PALS and ENPC

Bonus points if you’ve worked with OTN or in rural/remote settings!

Why Join Us?

Because at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre our mission is rooted in compassion excellence, community and innovation. You’ll be supported by an incredible interprofessional team, with a focus on growth, innovation and culturally safe care.

Applications now open on https://jobs.tbrhsc.net/

Pocket Hugs with Afonso Creations — in the Hospital lobby today.

Local artist Jodi Afonso is on site today and tomorrow with her heartfelt “Pocket Hugs”, small resin hearts designed to be kept in your pocket as a reminder of love, hope, and connection. Inspired by her grandparents, Irene and Saul, Jodi created Pocket Hugs to “spread love, kindness, and positive messaging throughout our community.”

Jodi is also showcasing select artwork, with most proceeds generously donated back to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation. If you’re nearby, stop by the lobby to say hello, pick up a Pocket Hug, and support local care.

Thank you, Jodi, for helping our community feel supported, one small hug at a time.

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Pharmacy Technician Day (October 21) recognizes the invaluable contributions made by Registered Pharmacy Technicians who work tirelessly to ensure patients receive their medications safely and accurately.

The role of a pharmacy technician is an integral part of any pharmacy operation, including Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. We appreciate all that our pharmacy technician team does for our patients, their families and staff. Please take this day to show your support for our pharmacy technician team.

To learn more about the profession, or if you are interested in becoming a pharmacy technician check out the Ontario College of Pharmacists website at https://www.ocpinfo.com/registration/register-technician/.

There’s also a current career opportunity for a pharmacy technician at our Hospital. Click here to apply ➡️ https://bit.ly/4hnUHqA

Health Information Professional (HIP) Week is an annual observance that recognizes the professionals who manage and protect health information. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the critical work they do to ensure health information is accurate, accessible, and protected. This week, please remember to thank our Health Records Department for everything they do!

After more than 30 years of dedicated service in the field of Occupational Therapy, Laura Swancar is retiring.

Laura began her OT journey in 1994 after graduating from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Health Sciences in Occupational Therapy. Her path to this profession was sparked by a formative summer job in her hometown of Kenora, Ontario, where she worked with individuals living with mental illness. That experience inspired a deep respect for people’s stories and a desire to be part of a team that makes a meaningful difference in others’ lives.

Over the course of her remarkable career, Laura has brought compassion, professionalism, and a sharp sense of humor to every role she’s taken on. She began her career in pediatrics at the George Jeffrey Children’s Treatment Centre in Thunder Bay, working with children with learning disabilities. From there, she took on a wide variety of roles in Thunder Bay’s healthcare system, including:

• Acute Neurosurgery and Medicine/Geriatrics at McKellar Hospital
• Acquired Brain Injury, Hospice, and Complex Care at St. Joseph’s Hospital
• Outpatient Neuro, Orthopedics/Hands, and the Foot Clinic
• Acute Stroke Team and Regional Stroke Unit at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre
• Professional development and OT education through NOSM (formerly Health Sciences North)
• Presenter at Canadian Stroke Congress (2016) on Post-stroke Depression
• Presenter at the Canadian Physiotherapy Association Congress (2006) on Communities of Practice as a Model for Promoting Best Practice
• Clinical presenter and preceptor for the McMaster NSS (northern studies stream) and NOSM

Laura is perhaps best known for her long-standing role as the Occupational Therapist on the Acute Stroke Team and Regional Stroke Unit at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. She dedicated many years to this work and concluded her distinguished career as a valued member of this team.

Committed to continuous learning, Laura also earned a Graduate Diploma in Stroke Rehabilitation from the University of Alberta in 2014, further deepening her expertise in the field.

Throughout her career, Laura has been known for her deep commitment to treating the whole person, her collaborative spirit, and her belief that Occupational Therapy is about helping people return to what matters most in their lives. And of course, her colleagues will miss her warmth, her insight, and her contagious laughter.

In retirement, Laura looks forward to spending more time doing the things she loves:  cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, swimming in lakes, hiking, gardening, reading, traveling, and spending time with her family, friends, and beloved dogs.

Please join us in celebrating Laura’s incredible career and wishing her all the best in this exciting new chapter!