Social determinants of health are non-medical factors that affect our health and well-being, such as income, education, housing, food security and disability. Addressing potential barriers is an emerging focus in health care and a priority for the FLA OHT.
The Social Determinants of Health Community of Practice (SDOH CoP), established in 2023, connects providers who support individuals disadvantaged by various conditions and social barriers.
Current challenges
- Many people who could benefit from local social services face barriers to access or navigation.
- In the Frontenac, Lennox and Addington counties, there is a shortage of social service providers focused on social determinants of health.
- Key providers—such as community services workers, support workers, and practical assistance workers—often lack regulatory oversight or formal professional support.
What we are working towards
The Social Determinant of Health Community of Practice is working on these main areas:
- Fostering collaboration between social service providers
- Expanding social service provider access to tools and knowledge
- Facilitating system navigation for community members
- Improving the provider experience
Photo: SDOH CoP presenting at the Association of Family Health Teams of Ontario Conference, October 2024.
More about the SDOH Community of Practice
Our Work Together
Meetings are held 5-6 times/year with agendas including:
- two to three community services presentations
- Q&A and networking
Presentation topics:
- Mental health services
- Food and housing access
- Community care
- Social prescribing
- Indigenous-focused services
- 2SLGBTQ+ resources
"Every presentation, poster and shared insight strengthens our collective ability to improve outcomes for the people we serve, creating a safe space to go to with any questions, any time", explains Anastassiya Khrokova, SDOH CoP Co-lead.
Melody Wyslobicky, MD
SDOH CoP Evaluation Lead
Melody graduated from Queen’s School of Medicine in 2025 and started a residency in Family Medicine. She has a strong interest in social determinants of health informed care.
Evaluation project
An evaluation project was conducted to assess the effectiveness of the SDOH CoP since its creation in February 2023. An online survey was distributed to CoP participants in the Spring of 2024 to gain insights on their experience.
Results showed a growing number of CoP meeting participants over time. The main motivators to join emerged as sharing knowledge and forming connections. The group has been well received, with the majority of participants agreeing that the CoP has enhanced their connections, knowledge sharing, resource access, sense of support, ability to help clients and view of success.
“I like the idea of breaking the silos and networking to improve my knowledge of services available in the region. It helps me to better connect client with resources that serve their needs”, states SDOH CoP Particpant.
Who's involved?
Primary care providers, Home and Community Care agencies staff, Municipalities, Community Advocates, Indigenous Navigators, Researchers, and Specialists from across the region are working together.