As part of her verbal report, Dr. Etches noted that the U.S. Surgeon General recently released an advisory highlighting mounting research about the harmful effects of social media use on mental health, including negative impacts to body image and contribution to the development of eating disorders and she talked about some of the things OPH has been doing, with local partners, to build resiliency among youth and promote alternatives to screen time. She then provided updates on the GetaKit initiative, renovations at the Merivale dental clinic and recent implementation of a new digital dental x-ray system, OPH’s role during extreme heat and outdoor air quality events, and ongoing efforts to help children and youth catch-up on their routine vaccinations. She then talked about planning underway for this fall’s respiratory illnesses season, OPH’s recent integrated planning process, and preparation for the 2024 budget. In closing, she introduced Mohammad Kibria, OPH”s new Manager for the Medical Officer of Health Business and Development Support service area and thanked Jo-Anne Henderson-White who acted in the previous Manager role for a year.
Dr. Etches responded to questions arising from her verbal report. The Board then voted to receive the Medical Officer of Health's Verbal Report. Discussions on this item lasted approximately 28 minutes.