Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres Services Directory
Welcome to Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres
The Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres (CKCHC) have a dynamic, dedicated and compassionate staff that shares our vision of “the best possible health and wellbeing for those we serve” in supporting vulnerable populations within Chatham-Kent. As a Community Health Centre, we provide a wholistic interdisciplinary approach to all aspects of an individual’s health and wellbeing. Our Model of Health and Wellbeing places the individual at the center of all that we do, and empowers people to actively participate in healthy lifestyle choices. There is a strong emphasis on health promotion, healthy lifestyles, wellbeing and illness prevention.
We operate three satellites across Chatham-Kent including Chatham, Wallaceburg and Walpole Island. Through partnerships, our programs and services are delivered in a wide variety of community settings and outreach locations.
Our interdisciplinary team is committed to excellence in primary health and wellness care with a continued focus on improvement initiatives to enhance our high-quality programs and services. In alignment with the Ministry of Health, Ontario Health and the Chatham-Kent Ontario Health Team’s directions for improved client experience, this organization continues to strengthen primary care as the foundation of the health care system through an equity lens. We do so by addressing social determinants of health, supporting health promotion activities and increasing access to primary care, wellness programs and services for our priority populations. Through our many partnerships and health system coordination, clients and families benefit from seamless, supportive and timely care.
The CKCHC is united to embrace change and eliminate barriers to access and equity of services. Collectively, we remain committed to
Sherri Saunders
Who We Are
About the Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres
The Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres are non-profit, community-governed, multi-service health centres that provide primary health care, health promotion and community development services all under one roof.
We are designed with the community in mind and for that reason we assist persons of all ages who are economically and/or socially disadvantaged with a focus on:
• Mental health and addictions
• Persons that face barriers such as race, language, culture and/or sexual orientation
• Persons who are homeless/under-housed or at risk for homelessness.
We also collaborate with other community service agencies as we believe that by utilizing each other’s skills, we are able to deliver the best programs that promote health and improve wellbeing for our clients and the community at-large. Many of our programs are accessible and free of charge to all residents of the Chatham-Kent community.
Mission
Together with clients and community partners, we provide access to a broad range of services that promote health and improve wellbeing.
Vision
The best possible health and wellbeing for those we serve.
Values
At the Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres we believe that values are important and culture counts. We will strive to use these values in all that we do:
• Trust – We cultivate safety, privacy, honesty, integrity, accountability, and reliability in mutual relationships.
• Respect – We focus on people as active participants, honouring the dignity and uniqueness of each person with acceptance and compassion.
• Equity – We advocate for and create environments that are culturally-safe, barrier-free, wholistic, inclusive, and accessible.
• Collaboration – We work together to achieve the best outcomes.
Our Promise
The staff at the Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres will take the time to listen carefully to your concerns and will work together with you to develop a plan that works for you.
Our Board of Directors
Tabitha Cook, President
• Appointed to the board on September 21, 2020
• Chair of the Governance and Nominations Committee
Jamie Neil, Vice President
• Appointed to the board on May 17, 2022
• Member of the Governance and Nominations Committee
Victor Ferreira, Director
• Appointed to the board on February 8, 2022
• Chair of the Resources and Risk Committee
Erin Dickinson
• Appointed to the board on May 17, 2022
• Chair of the Quality Committee
Everett Kicknosway
• Appointed to the board on September 27, 2023
• Member of the Governance and Nominations Committee
Rebecca Caron
• Appointed to the board on November 22, 2023
• Member of the Resources and Risk Committee
Gabriel Clark
• Appointed to the board on June 26, 2024
• Member of the Quality Committee
Kelly Lovell
• Appointed to the board on June 26, 2024
• Member of the Resources and Risk Committee
Evan Rogers
• Appointed to the board on September 17, 2024
• Member of the Quality Committee
Faye Johnston
• Appointed to the board on September 26, 2024
• Member of the Quality Committee
CHATHAM WALLACEBURG
Locations & Hours of Operation
Chatham
150 Richmond Street
Chatham, ON N7M 1N9
Tel.: 519-397-5455
Fax: 519-397-5497
Monday: 9AM - 4:30PM
Tuesday - Thursday: 9AM - 8PM
Friday: 9AM - 4:30PM
Wallaceburg
808 Dufferin Avenue
Wallaceburg, ON N8A 2V4
Tel.: 519-397-5455
Fax: 519-627-8652
Monday - Friday: 9AM - 4:30PM
Wednesday: 9AM - 8PM
Walpole Island
785 Tecumseh Road, Unit 16
Walpole Island, ON N8A 4K9
Tel.: 519-397-5455
Fax: 519-627-4436
Monday: 9AM - 8PM
Tuesday - Friday: 9AM - 4:30PM
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres have a walk-in clinic?
The CKCHC is not a walk-in clinic, appointments with Doctors and Nurse Practitioners are for clients only.
What if I need to see a health professional on short notice? Every effort will be made to leave appointment time slots open and available for clients needing urgent care. Clients must call the CKCHC to obtain urgent care appointments.
What are the types of health professionals and other staff that provide service?
The CKCHC is comprised of Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Nurses, Dietitians, Social Workers, Health Promoters, Physiotherapists, Kinesiologists and other health care professionals who provide services such as mental health counselling, diabetes education, health promotion and community outreach programs.
Do I have to pay to receive services?
You do not need to pay and you do not need an OHIP card to receive services.
What if I miss an appointment?
Clients are asked to make every effort to keep appointments and to be on time. If you cannot make an appointment, we request 24 hours’ notice in order to respect the time of our team and the other clients. For clients who frequently miss or cancel their appointments, an appointment policy comes into effect and it can be requested from reception.
Can I go to another Physician or Nurse Practitioner while I am a client of the Health Centre?
When you become a client of the CKCHC, you are enrolled with the Physicians and Nurse Practitioners at the centre. If you choose to see another primary care provider outside of the CKCHC, the Physician or Nurse Practitioner with whom you are registered can remove you from their client list.
How do I book an appointment?
Call 519-397-5455 or visit the CKCHC location in your area.
Do the Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres provide emergency services?
The CKCHC does not handle medical emergencies. Please go directly to your local hospital for immediate care or dial 911.
Model of Health and Wellbeing
The Model of Health and Wellbeing serves as the beating heart of all 74 Community Health Centres (CHC) in Ontario. It plays a vital role in our service delivery and program development. Without this model, we cannot help our clients and community move towards a state of complete physical, mental, social and spiritual wellbeing. From our Board of Directors to our clinical and administrative staff, this model flows within our CHC and spreads outward into the community.
Community Health Centre Community Health Centre
Clients and Community Clients and Community
For more information, please visit www.allianceon.org/model-health-and-wellbeing.
Our Healthcare Team
NURSE PRACTITIONER
Advanced Registered Nurse. Treats common illnesses and injuries, prescribes medications and lab tests. Consults with physicians as required.
CHIROPODIST
Specializes in the recognition, assessment, treatment and ongoing care of the foot.
REGISTERED NURSE
Works with Physicians and Nurse Practitioners by following treatment plans. Participates in the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of programs and services for individuals, families and the community.
LOW GERMAN FAMILY SUPPORT WORKER
Helps families navigate the health and social service system. Provides interpretation and advocates for the healthcare of Low German families.
REGISTERED DIETITIAN
Provides counselling and medical nutrition plans for a variety of health conditions and food issues.
REGISTERED KINESIOLOGIST
Prevents and manages injuries, disabilities and chronic diseases. Improves overall health and performance. Provides individualized exercise plans.
PHYSIOTHERAPIST
Promotes optimal mobility and physical activity. Educates and plans maintenance and support programs to prevent reoccurrence of injury.
MEDICAL RECEPTIONISTS
Specialize in managing client appointments, forms and special requests. They keep things organized and flowing smoothly. The first friendly face that greets you when you arrive.
CHILD & YOUTH WORKER
Provides case management and crisis intervention functions for youth and families. Works with youth and children who have social, emotional and or behavioural issues.
PHYSICIAN
Trained in all areas of medicine. Diagnoses and treats a variety of health issues.
REGISTERED PRACTICAL NURSE
Works with Physicians and Nurse Practitioners by following treatment plans. Provides education on healthier living. Administers immunizations, takes blood work and provides foot care.
REGISTERED
RESPIRATORY THERAPIST
Monitors, assesses and treats individuals who have difficulty breathing. Educates individuals on proper breathing techniques and inhaler use.
HEALTH PROMOTER
Researches, coordinates and evaluates programs. Provides tools to individuals and groups to improve overall health and wellbeing. Helps individuals navigate the health and social service system.
TRADITIONAL HEALING COMMUNITY OUTREACH WORKER
Assists with coordinating visiting healers and hosting community cultural/healing events which emphasizes building resiliency, language preservation/retention, spiritual and cultural connections.
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
Focus on independence in everyday living through maintaining ability, restoring function, and promoting health.
SOCIAL WORKER
Provides individual, family and couple counselling. Develops programs to address social issues such as mental health and domestic violence.
TRADITIONAL HEALERS
Incorporates First Nations healing and wellness by including prayers, traditional medicines and practices or ceremonies.
“Outstanding care from everyone involved at/from CKCHC. Caring, compassionate medical team of professionals. I always feel good about going there. I know they will help with my needs and issues.”
Programs & Services
All programs and services are FREE and available to CHC clients and community members (unless otherwise stated)
CHRONIC DISEASE PREVENTION & MANAGEMENT
Age Well
This service is available to community members who are in their senior years, are at a risk for falls, and/or living with a chronic health condition. The Age Well team consists of a Registered Nurse, Occupational Therapist and a Physiotherapist and Kinesiologist. In partnership with the client, the team provides practical tools, knowledge, and skills clients need for safe and independent mobility in their homes and community and to optimize their management of chronic health conditions. Some of the programs and services included are home safety assessments, exercise programs, support groups and a grab bar program. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 225.
Beat the Odds
A healthy lifestyle program designed to help you feel better, be healthier and reach your weight loss goals. Participants will learn how to make small changes that have a big impact! This program assists in identifying and overcoming risk factors and barriers, creating healthy eating habits, and designing a healthy physical activity routine. For more information, please call 519-365-1515.
Breathe Well
This is an ongoing exercise and education program led by a Kinesiologist and Respiratory Educator to help those living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and some other lung conditions to build self-management skills and exercise tolerance. Participants learn about medication management, action planning, breathing techniques and much more. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 225.
Cardiac Rehab and Secondary Prevention
This is an outpatient program available, through referral, for all adults with known cardiac disease such as a previous heart attack or heart surgery who wish to move forward managing their own health. Participants are offered a 3-month supervised exercise program along with general education and counseling as needed in nutrition, stress management, medications and general information on heart attack and stroke. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 314.
Master Your Health
Learn to take control of your health. These workshops focuses on enabling clients to self-manage their Chronic Health Conditions such as Pain, Diabetes, Asthma, Depression, Heart Disease, High Cholesterol etc. With an emphasis on goal setting, action plan development, and problem solving, group members will work together and support each other in a journey towards empowerment over their own health. For more information, please call 1-855-259-3605.
Master Your Health Workshops include:
• Chronic Pain Workshops
• Chronic Health Condition Workshops
• Diabetes Workshops
Memory and Aging
The Memory and Aging Program is an evidence-based educational memory intervention program aimed at older adults experiencing normal age-related memory changes. Facilitated by an Occupational Therapist, participants will learn about changes in memory that normally occur with age, factors affecting memory, how to minimize age-related changes, and strategies for improving memory function. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 2.
GENERAL HEALTH & WELLNESS
Art Series
Brush up on your creativity! Join us for art classes, run by volunteers and various organizations to learn new skills. Materials are provided. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 212.
Book Club
Join us in reading and discussing a bestselling novel each month. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 212.
Building Healthy Babies
This is a continuous monthly drop-in program that provides participants with pre- and post-natal education, nutrition information, and health and safety information. A cultural cooking class also occurs. Child care is provided. This program is in partnership with the EarlyON Child and Family Centres, the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit and Emmanuel Baptist Church. Available only to Low German families. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 158.
Elevation
Facilitated by a Kinesiologist, the aim of this program is to promote the self-management and prevention of chronic health conditions including diabetes through education and safe exercise. This program runs for 12 weeks and is customized to the level of fitness of the participants. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 2.
Flu Shot Clinics
Don’t get bugged by the flu! Vaccines are available during the months of October and November. For more information, please call 519-3975455 ext. 117.
Fresh
The freshest you, on a fresher budget. This is an interactive 4-week learning series in which participants will learn basic cooking skills such as measuring, chopping, calculating yields and using kitchen equipment. Led by a Registered Dietitian, participants create their own supportive and encouraging atmosphere while boosting their confidence and knowledge. Each session provides participants with a chance to make and share a meal, take home leftovers and learn about a new healthy eating topic each week. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 138.
Telemedicine
Are you having to travel out of town to see a physician, specialist or healthcare professional? With Telemedicine, you will be able to see, hear and talk to a specialist, physician, social worker, dietitian and any other healthcare professional live on a television screen. With the assistance of a Registered Nurse, Telemedicine allows you to visit your physician, specialist or healthcare professional without leaving town. It is private and free! For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 249.
Traditional Healing
This service incorporates First Nations healing and wellness by including prayers, traditional medicines and practices or ceremonies. Monthly healing services and teachings are provided by various Traditional Healers. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 315
Wallaceburg Hydrotherapy
Do you have arthritis? Joint problems? Led by a Physiotherapist, this 8-week pool-based program helps participants reduce their pain with gentle exercises. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 212.
Winter Warm Up
A program where we have volunteers knit or crochet hats and scarves for clients and community members in need. We provide the yarn! For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext.117
Zhiibii Circle
A yoga class for beginners! This weekly program offers less challenging
movements in a chair for those with chronic pain and other conditions. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 326.
MENTAL HEALTH
Chatham-Kent Addictions Awareness Conference
A one-day learning session that is offered annually in November. Various topics in relation to addictions is presented and discussed by educated keynote speakers. This conference is in partnership with Restorative Justice Chatham-Kent, Canadian Mental Health Association, Westover Treatment Centre and the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Mental Health and Addictions Program. A registration cost applies. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 113.
Eating Disorders
This program is available to all individuals from ages 11 to 25 who reside in Chatham-Kent, North Lambton, West Lambton, Sarnia and Grand Bend. Led by a Nurse Practitioner, medical care, counseling, nutritional support and guidance are provided to those individuals experiencing an eating disorder. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 1.
Mental Health & Addictions Care Coordination
In partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association LambtonKent and the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, clients with mental health and addictions needs can receive care coordination from a Mental Health Care Coordinator. The Coordinator supports the ongoing planning and delivery of care for clients who may require an improved coordinated care planning approach. The Coordinator also collaborates with the Psychiatrist who provides on-site psychiatric services, consult and follow-up in a shared care model. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 1.
Using the wisdom of body and mind to face stress, pain, illness and suffering! For those struggling with physical and/or emotional life issues, this 10-week program offers formal and informal mindful meditation practices. Participants will learn to counteract stress, balance mind and body, stimulate well-being and healing, and much more. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 117.
“I never had the resources to combat the daily anxiety and depression- now I do.”
Women’s Anger Solutions
This 10-week program is different from traditional anger management models as it focuses on resolving the emotion of anger rather than teaching participants to control behaviour. This program works to motivate participants to become internally motivated to change their responses to anger. Some of the topics included are: Defining Anger, Understanding How Anger Develops, and Assertiveness and Listening Skills. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 2.
OUTREACH
Adult Gender Diversity Clinic
Transitioning support services provided by a Nurse Practitioner. Services include assessment and diagnosis of gender dysphoria, individual support and treatment, management of common comorbid mental health conditions, as well as assessment and prescription of gender affirming hormones. Eligible to individuals 18 years or older. A referral from your Health Care Provider is preferred, but not required. Access to services are available for those without a Primary Care Provider. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 1.
Chatham Shelter
Individuals accessing temporary housing at the shelter receive weekly primary care services from our healthcare team. For more information, please call 519-397-5455.
Health Promotion Outreach
Our health promotion team goes to various community meals and events to assist with system navigation and referrals to community agencies. Working collaboratively with community members, the Health Promoters also gather feedback on past programs and work with community members to develop new programs. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 212.
Merry Mingle
This is a FREE annual lunch open to everyone in the community. Held in various settings in Chatham, Wallaceburg and Walpole Island, clients and community members enjoy a wholesome meal while interacting with one another. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 117.
Temporary Foreign Worker Outreach Clinics
The Temporary Foreign Workers Outreach Clinics are committed to enhancing the health and wellbeing of migrant workers in the ChathamKent agricultural sector. Our outreach clinics ensure easier and more convenient access to healthcare while away from their home. Our dedicated team comprising of a Health Promoter, Registered Practical Nurse, and Nurse Practitioner, specializes in providing essential acute medical care services and tailored health education. This initiative not only addresses health concerns, but also fosters an environment where migrant workers can maintain their health, enabling them to effectively manage work and life challenges in a new setting. For more information, please call 226-626-7876.
YOUTH
Anger Solutions for Kids & Youth
A 6-week program for kids and an 8-week program for youth and that incorporates several evidence-based therapeutic models. This program is different from traditional anger management models as it focuses on resolving the emotion of anger rather than teaching participants to control behaviour. This program works to motivate participants to become internally motivated to change their responses to anger. Some of the topics included are: Learning about Emotion, Coping Strategies, and Communication Skills. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 117.
First Five
The First Five Program provides preventative and health promotion services to children aged 0-5 who do not have a primary care doctor or nurse practitioner. This program provides primary care services including; well baby/well child visits, immunizations, developmental screening, nutrition support, assistance with navigating the health care system, referral requests and care for acute illnesses (i.e. infections, coughs, colds, vomiting, rashes, etc). For more details or to enroll please call 519-397-5455.
Fresh for Youth
For youth aged 8-16, this is an interactive learning series in which participants will learn basic cooking skills such as measuring, chopping, calculating yields and using kitchen equipment. Led by a Registered Dietitian, participants create their own supportive and encouraging atmosphere while boosting their confidence and knowledge. Each session provides participants with a chance to make and share a meal, take home leftovers and learn about a new healthy eating topic each week. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 212.
PERSEVERE
An 8-week activity-based school program that teaches resiliency to grades 4 and 6. The grade 4 PERSEVERE program has a focus on feelings, coping, thoughts, social support networks and problem solving. The grade 6 PERSEVERE program goes more in depth on the above mentioned topics and adds in mindfulness, confidence, and self-talk. For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 254.
Youth Gender Diversity Clinics
In parternship with Windsor-Essex CHC, we offer services for transgender children and youth in Windsor-Essex, Chatham-Kent and surrounding areas. Led by a paediatrician, services include assessment and diagnosis of gender dysphoria, managing common comorbid mealth health conditions, assessment for starting hormone blockers and affirming hormone therapy, and prescription of hormones or blockers and monitoring of treatment. For youth aged 18 or younger. For more information or to refer, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 164.
Volunteer Opportunities
At the Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres, volunteers play an important role in the delivery of services to the community and clients of the centre. We want our volunteers to share their talents, learn new skills and feel like part of a team. We seek to match each volunteer with a position that suits their skills and interests.
We are looking for individuals who:
• are willing to learn new skills
• are able to work independently
• have good communication skills
• have excellent customer service skills
• are reliable, punctual and professional
Complete an online volunteer application form or contact Tara Holmes, Human Resources Lead, by calling 519-397-5455 or by email at volunteer@ckchc.ca.
Student Placements
The Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres provide learning opportunities for students from various college and university programs. We provide placements at all of our three sites for a variety of programs including:
• Kinesiology
• Nursing
• Dietetic
• Social Work
• Nurse Practitioner
Student placements are arranged by the school or educational institution.
• Medical Secretary
• Medical Student Observership
• Health Promotion
For more information, please call 519-397-5455 ext. 139 or email hr@ckchc.ca.
Community Supporters
Disclaimer: We thank all the advertisers whose support has made this publication possible. The appearance of the advertisements in this publication should not be taken as an endorsement by the ChathamKent Community Health Centres of any particular goods or services and cannot be responsible for the goods and services which appear in those advertisements.
