Inspired by the voices of children, youth, and families, this innovative team joined together to apply for a unique Ontario Health Team designation. The Ontario government’s Ontario Health Team application process led to the largest mobilization of child and youth health providers and families in the history of Eastern Ontario. The creation of the Kids Come First Health Team also marked a committed shift from engagement with kids and families to true partnership and co-design. Watch this video for a special message from Health Minister Christine Elliot. Today Kids Come First is a Regional Network and we continue to receive support from the Ontario Ministry of Health.
Kids Come First knows that infants, children, and youth are not adults — their healthcare needs are totally different. They are still developing, they live with different illnesses, and experience mental health, addictions, and substance use health differently. They require a wider range of healthcare providers, have parents or guardians who co-manage their care, and attend daycare or school. For these reasons and more, we need to better connect health services for kids, making it easier and faster for them to access the care that they need.
For more information on how Kids Come First came to be please read the complete Kids Come First application.