Brightshores Health System has completed its most extensive engagement initiative to date to hear directly from the people who experience the system every day – patients, families, staff, physicians, volunteers, partners, and community members across Grey-Bruce.
The ‘Stronger. Together. Initiative’ was designed to help us better understand how people experience care today and how the organization can continue to evolve. Over three months,Brightshores hosted a wide range of in-person, virtual, and survey-based activities that invited participation from both inside the organization and across the region:
•38 engagement sessions held across local communities and Brightshores sites;
•400+ participants in in-person sessions, with dozens more contributing through virtual discussions;
•700+ surveys completed.
These activities generated more than 3,500 comments, stories, reflections, and suggestions about care, access, experience, and system performance.
“Brightshores is widely seen as compassionate, committed, and deeply connected to the communities it serves,” said Deborah Pope, Chair of the Board of Directors. “People shared thoughtful ideas about how Brightshores can continue to strengthen care. It is clear that our communities believe in Brightshores, and they want to be part of shaping its future.”
Across all engagement activities, both internal and external, participants consistently described Brightshores as trusted, caring, and deeply rooted in the community – an essential part of local identity. They praised the dedicated professionals who go above and beyond every day to deliver high-quality care, while also acknowledging the significant pressures teams are facing. Many expressed concerns about the sustainability of the system, citing staffing shortages, rising demand, and other challenges straining hospital resources. Participants also offered ideas to strengthen support for care teams, improve access, reduce wait times, modernize tools, technology and infrastructure, and enhance coordination across the system.
“This engagement reaffirmed the dedication of our teams and the trust our communities place in us,” said Ann Ford, president and CEO of Brightshores. “The insights shared through this process will help us to build on our strengths and create a system that supports both high-quality care throughout our region and the people who deliver it. I extend my sincere thanks to all who participated for their thoughtful input and commitment to our shared future.”
Brightshores will use these insights, along with other resources, to guide strategic planning over the next six months and support decisions that strengthen care and deepen Brightshores’ impact.
