About Us
Understanding Family Health Teams
Family Health Teams (FHTs) were introduced by Ontario's Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) in 2005 to address the diverse and evolving primary health care needs of communities across the province. Designed to reflect the unique characteristics of the local population, FHTs provide tailored programs and services that respond to the specific health concerns and priorities of their patient population.
FHTs represent a collaborative, team-based approach to primary care, bringing together a wide range of health professionals, including family physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, social workers, dietitians, and other allied health professionals. By leveraging their collective expertise, these teams aim to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care that emphasizes chronic disease management, health promotion, and disease prevention.
One of the key strengths of FHTs lies in their ability to provide high-quality care close to home, ensuring accessibility and continuity for patients. By focusing on integrated care, FHTs reduce fragmentation in the health system and enhance patients’ experiences and reduce emergency room visits.
Additionally, FHTs work closely with other healthcare organizations, such as public health units and Home and Community Care Support Services, to coordinate programs and services. This collaboration streamlines the patient journey, making it easier for individuals to navigate the healthcare system and access the care they need when they need it.
By addressing local health priorities, fostering collaboration among healthcare professionals, and simplifying access to care, Family Health Teams play an essential role in strengthening Ontario’s healthcare system and improving health outcomes for individuals and communities alike.
How We Work
The Loyalist Family Health Team is a dynamic, multidisciplinary group dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. In addition to family physicians and their support staff, our team includes Registered Nurses, a Registered Practical Nurse, a Nurse Practitioner, a Dietitian, a Social Worker, an Occupational Therapist, and administrative staff. Many of these roles fall under the category of "Interdisciplinary Health Professionals," individuals with specialized expertise in specific areas of healthcare. Together, they support physicians in delivering comprehensive and coordinated care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
We emphasize a team-based approach to health care, combining our diverse skills to provide services that span health education, health promotion, disease prevention, and diagnosis. Our care model adopts a self-management approach, empowering patients to take an active role in managing their health. Through education and collaboration, we aim to enhance patients’ confidence and skills in maintaining their well-being.
Our primary focus is on addressing the specific needs of the community we serve. We achieve this by designing programs and services that reflect the health priorities and concerns of our patient population. These offerings are continually evaluated and revised based on patient feedback, ensuring that they remain relevant, effective, and responsive to the evolving needs of our community.
In addition to our internal efforts, we actively pursue partnerships with community organizations and other health services. These collaborations allow us to expand program opportunities and integrate care, ensuring that patients can access a broader range of resources and supports where it makes sense.
By working together and adapting to the needs of our patients, we strive to provide a seamless and holistic healthcare experience that enhances the overall health and well-being of our community.
Our Team
PHYSICIANS:
| Dr. J. Moodie | 613-634-9898 |
| Dr. G. Kitching | 613-384-4888 |
| Dr. R. Goldstein | 613-389-1619 |
| Dr. A. Chavlovski | 613-507-7106 |
| Dr. A. Alade | 613-389-1604 |
| Dr. S. Naoum | 613-507-7106 |
| Dr. D. Pitre | 613-634-1078 |
| Dr. M. Wonnacott | 613-634-1813 |
*please call physicians' offices directly for fax numbers
LOYALIST FAMILY HEALTH TEAM
| Telephone | 613-507-0213 | |
| Executive Director | Ms. V. Acevedo | Ext 206 |
| Clinic Coordinator / Payroll Administrator | Ms. K. Morris | Ext 201 |
| Dietitian | - | Ext 209 |
| Nurse Practitioner | Mr. L. Rousselle, Ms. J. Vandusen, Mr. T. Kotchapaw | - |
| Occupational Therapist | Mr. R. Saikaly | Ext 208 |
| Registered Nurse | Ms. M. Schonwandt | Ext 203 |
| Registered Nurse | Ms. E. Fitzgerald | Ext 202 |
|
Ms. R. Leonard, Ms. R. Prior, Ms. C. Martin, Ms. M. Campbell |
Ext 207 | |
| Social Worker | Ms. L. Van Eindhoven | Ext 205 |
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
| Chair | Dr. D. Pitre |
| Treasurer | Dr M. Wonnacott |
| Secretary | Dr. S. Naoum |
Understanding Referrals
If you require a referral to a specialist here’s what you need to know:
- An appointment with your family physician is required first to obtain the referral
- As always, make sure that your physician has your most current information to pass along to the specialist in order for them to contact you
- Wait times for a specialist vary widely – it could be anywhere from 1 week to an 18 month wait depending upon their availability
- Be prepared to be patient
- Some specialists in the Kingston area have lengthy wait lists therefore you are welcome to research specialists beyond Kingston (i.e. Ottawa or Toronto) if you would like. Bring that information with you to your appointment with your family physician.