Lakeridge Health launches streamlined portal for mental health and addiction services in Oshawa and Durham

Lakeridge Health officially launched Central Connect Tuesday, a new streamlined referral model to access mental health and addictions services across the organization.

Central Connect creates a single point of access to more than 55 programs and services for outpatients, Durham Mental Health Services, and Pinewood Addiction Services from what used to be more than 30 referral methods.

“Using a person-centred approach, Central Connect takes the navigation out of the hands of those who need us and simplifies access our programs and services,” explains Beth Brannon, Senior Director, Mental Health and Addictions. “It’s a huge step forward in Together, Best Mental Health, our multi-year mental health and substance use services strategy, and will greatly improve the experience of those seeking mental health and addictions care across Durham Region.

Health-care providers and patients can now easily make new referrals into mental health and addiction programs by calling (905) 440-7534 (or toll-free at 1-833-392-7363); emailing [email protected] or using the patient or health-care provider e-referral forms available on the Lakeridge Health website.

“As one of Ontario’s largest MHA programs, Lakeridge Health is known for providing evidence-based mental health and substance use services delivered with compassion,” says Kirsten Burgomaster, Health System Executive, Regional and Community Care, Lakeridge Health. “Central Connect will enable us to provide clients with the right care, in the right place.”

Dr. Kevin Chopra, Chief of Psychiatry and Medical Director, Mental Health and Addictions adds that the new referral model is an “important part” of Lakeridge Health’s goal to create a system that is “accessible by all, tailored to individual needs, easy to navigate, person-focused, evidence-based, equitable, and compassionate.”

For more information about Central Connect, visit the Mental Health and Addictions program section on the Lakeridge Health website.