UHN, Toronto Rehab receive Board approval for integration

The Toronto Rehabilitation Institute (Toronto Rehab) and University Health Network (UHN) Boards of Directors today gave final approval to the integration of Toronto Rehab with UHN today which is the final step in a process that began in April, 2011.

"I would like to compliment the volunteer directors of both Boards and the senior management teams of these two organizations for their commitment to creating a health care system which supports the very best quality of care for patients," said Minister Deb Matthews, Minister of Health and Long Term Care for the Province of Ontario.  "Transitions between levels of care can be challenging for patients and families, so I look forward to watching University Health Network as it integrates the very best acute care with rehabilitation, complex continuing care and long-term care."

The Board motion, which passed at both Board meetings today, concludes a process that will see University Health Network assume responsibility on July 1, 2011 for all of the clinical programs, research, education, employees, and physical assets of Toronto Rehab.  The integration is supported by the Toronto Central Local Health Integration Network, the University of Toronto, and the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.

"Quite simply becoming part of the University Health Network makes good sense," said Toronto Rehab President & CEO Mark Rochon.  Bringing these two organizations together will enable clinicians to initiate rehabilitation much sooner in the acute care phase of treatment which will enhance both the quality and continuity of care as well as outcomes for patients."

"Everyone who has been part of this process has seen the enormous opportunity for patients, research and health care professionals in this new organization," said Dr. Bob Bell, President and CEO of University Health Network.  "This would not have been possible without the vision and support of Mr. David Bragg, the Chair of the Board of Toronto Rehab, Mr. John Mulvihill, the Chair of UHN's Board and my colleague, Mr. Mark Rochon, the President and CEO of Toronto Rehab.  I am committed to their vision for the new UHN which now combines outstanding acute services with excellent post-acute care in an environment that supports interprofessional care, education and research.