Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre plays a key role in health care for the people of Northwestern Ontario. As the only academic health sciences centre in the region, we are dedicated to providing complex acute and specialty care, teaching the next generation of health care providers, and advancing medical research through the Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute.
Strategic Plan 2026, outlines our priorities of equity, diversity, and inclusion; patient and staff experience; research, innovation, and learning. These directions, along with the supports we put in place, will lead us to a stronger, healthier, and more sustainable future.
By committing to a Sustainable Future, we will ensure a healthy tomorrow for everyone in our region. This aspect of our strategic plan focuses on building a strong foundation for care: integrating innovation, partnerships, and accountability at every step.
To ensure our long-term success, we are focusing on the advancement of digital health services, system integration and operational sustainability. We are prioritizing services, greater efficiency, and strengthening partnerships to continue to provide exceptional care for every patient, every time.
For the fourth year of the joint Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) and Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute (TBRHRI) Strategic Plan 2026, we are pleased to provide this report back to the community on the progress to date.
The plan focuses on five strategic pillars: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion; Patient Experience; Staff Experience; Research, Innovation and Learning, and Sustainable Future.
Each year, a strategic priority is featured through video, and a range of communications, providing a closer look at some of the initiatives TBRHSC and TBRHRI have undertaken to advance health care in Northwestern Ontario. This year, the organizations are highlighting initiatives that support the priority of Sustainable Future.
“Looking ahead, we are committed to an environment defined by exceptional patient care, an engaged workforce, strong partnerships, and the responsible stewardship of our resources,” says Dr. Rhonda Crocker Ellacott, President and CEO at TBRHSC and CEO at TBRHRI. “Through the integration of sustainable practices across our operations, we are creating a stronger, more resilient hospital — one that is prepared to meet the evolving needs of the people of Northwestern Ontario today and for generations to come.”
Initiatives to support this commitment include the expansion of our Hospital footprint and programming to include cardiovascular surgery (launching in 2028); implementing an integrated electronic health record system to improve clinical processes and patient care; building outpatient programs to enhance care for children with medical complexity and harnessing technology and data to improve outcomes for stroke patients. These are just a few examples of initiatives that will make certain we continue to meet the needs of patients and families now and in the future.
“The Board recognizes that sustainability is integral to our mission and long-term success, ensuring we can provide exceptional care for every patient, every time — today and into the future” states Patricia Lang, Board Chair for TBRHSC. “Through thoughtful planning and responsible stewardship, we are safeguarding the future of our hospital, strengthening our capacity to deliver high-quality patient care while remaining responsive and sustainable in a changing healthcare environment.”
“Research and innovation play a vital role in creating a sustainable health care system,” says Dr. Andrew Dean, Board Chair for TBRHRI. “By advancing new knowledge, fostering collaboration, and exploring solutions to the unique health challenges facing Northwestern Ontario, we are helping to improve patient outcomes while strengthening the future of health care. Sustainability and innovation go hand in hand, and our commitment to research ensures that we continue to discover better ways to care for patients and support healthier communities.”
As Strategic Plan 2026 comes to a close, TBRHSC and TBRHRI have successfully launched all 26 initiatives aligned with the five Strategic Directions. While this marks a significant milestone, many of these initiatives will continue to evolve as we advance our vision through a new Strategic Plan.
View the Year Four Progress through the TBRHSC Annual Report here, or the TBRHRI Annual Report here.
Want to be Featured in the 2027 Well-Being Calendar?
It is time again to open submissions for the 2027 Well-Being Calendar.
Show us how you or your team make your workplace healthier and happier! Scan the QR code below or click this link to submit yourself or your team as a feature, or to submit a recipe!
Together we can make 2027 the healthiest year yet!
Shared on behalf of John Ross, Director, Surgical and Ambulatory Services
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Jolyne Fadyshen as Manager of Ambulatory Care, Fracture Clinic and Rehabilitation Services, effective June 15, 2026.
Jolyne is a dynamic clinical leader with a proven track record at TBRHSC, enhancing patient outcomes through evidence-based teaching and interdisciplinary collaboration. Jolyne has excelled in program development and clinical quality improvement, demonstrating advanced clinical knowledge and exceptional communication skills.
Jolyne is an accomplished healthcare leader with more than 23 years of nursing experience, including her role as Perioperative Clinical Nurse Specialist since 2018. She obtained her Masters Science of Nursing in Specialization in Education in 2024.
Jolyne has been Acting Manager of Ambulatory Care, Fracture Clinic and Rehabilitation Services since February 2025 and we are happy to have her join the team permanently.
Please join us in congratulating and welcoming Jolyne to her permanent role.
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and Endless Savings have teamed up to offer employees more discounts. Click the poster to learn how to download our customized storefront app and to shop this new list of offerings.
On June 17, we recognize and celebrate the dedicated members of our Switchboard team who help keep our Hospital connected every day.
As the first point of contact for many patients, families and staff, our switchboard operators play a vital role in ensuring calls are answered, information is shared, and people are connected to the support they need. Their professionalism, patience, and commitment help our hospital run smoothly around the clock.
Thank you to our Switchboard team for the important work you do behind the scenes and for the exceptional service you provide to our community every day.
Please join us in showing our appreciation for these invaluable team members!
Amelia Francis (left) and Carla Norman (right), work Switchboard at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.
It’s time to get a head start on your annual learning requirements. The 2026–2027 Corporate Mandatory eLearning courses are now available through your Dual Code LMS Progress Dashboard. All courses must be completed by March 31, 2027.
The Ontario Association of Medical Radiation Sciences (OAMRS) hosted its annual awards reception in Toronto on June 5, recognizing excellence in the field of Medical Radiation Sciences. The OAMRS Awards provide prestigious recognition to Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) and Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (DMSs) who demonstrate exceptional dedication to patient care and support for patients and their families. Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) was proud to have multiple recipients honoured for their outstanding contributions to patient care and the advancement of Medical Radiation Sciences.
Jennifer Pearson, MRT(R), 2026 OAMRS Unsung Hero Award Winner
The Unsung Hero Award exemplifies the spirit of the profession. The recipient is a person who, through their hard work and selflessness, goes above and beyond what is asked of them. Jennifer consistently goes above and beyond the standard expectations of an MRT. Her nominators put a heavy emphasis on her fierce dedication to patient advocacy and her instinct to always prioritize patient well-being. Trained in Fluoroscopy, Jennifer plays a vital role in complex procedures that require meticulous preparation and clear communication. Through it all, her trademark kindness and unwavering patience keep her patients feeling safe and cared for.
Keanna Adamson, MRT(R), 2026 OAMRS Recent Graduate Award Winner
The OAMRS Recent Graduate award recognizes a member from an accredited Canadian MRT or Sonographer program who demonstrates outstanding promise or achievement in their clinical placement or program. Keanna consistently demonstrates an exceptional commitment to excellence and a genuine passion for patient care, approaching every new learning opportunity with determination and enthusiasm. Her strong foundation in compassionate, patient-centered care was built during her previous time working as a Rehabilitation Assistant. Those invaluable interpersonal skills now shape her current practice, making her a phenomenal asset to the profession.
Mallory Whitehurst, MRT(R), 2026 OAMRS Mary F. Cameron Leadership Award
This award honours the memory of OAMRS founder, Mary F. Cameron. This prestigious award is presented to the practitioner who best embodies leadership. The recipient has earned the respect of their coworkers with their pioneering spirit and willingness to push the envelope to better serve patients, coworkers and contribute to the success of their organization and the reputation of the profession. Mallory is a key asset to the TBRHSC Diagnostic Imaging team and MRT program at Confederation College. She serves as a dedicated mentor and role model to countless students. Known as the ultimate ‘super user’ for various technologies and complex imaging equipment, Mallory is the team’s go-to resource. What truly sets her apart is her approachable, non-judgmental mentality.
Photo (L-R): Jennifer Pearson MRT(R), Kati Tuomi, Manager, Diagnostic Imaging (TBRHSC) and Director for the OAMRS, Erin Arps, Interim Interprofessional Practice and Learning Leader (TBRHSC) and Director for the OAMRS, Mallory Whitehurst MRT(R) and Keanna Adamson MRT(R).
