Couchiching Ontario Health Team Amplifies Cancer Screening Efforts in Our Community
Announcements, Healthcare

Couchiching Ontario Health Team Amplifies Cancer Screening Efforts in Our Community

February 27

(February 27, 2025 – Orillia, ON) – The Couchiching Ontario Health Team (COHT) is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of our community through proactive cancer screening initiatives. We are proud to support Cancer Care Ontario’s efforts by focusing on the early detection and prevention of colorectal, breast, and cervical cancers.

“Our proactive approach to cancer screening underscores our unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of Couchiching. By prioritizing early detection and prevention, we strive to save lives and enhance the quality of life for our residents,” said Jillian Fenik, Executive Director of the Couchiching Ontario Health Team.

Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer can often be prevented with regular screening and follow-up care. As of March 3rd, HPV testing will become the primary method for cervical cancer screening. HPV testing has a higher sensitivity, which means it is better at detecting cervical pre-cancer or cancer than cytology testing alone.

  • When to Get Screened: Women aged 25 to 69 who are at average risk and have been sexually active should undergo an HPV test every five years.
  • Types of Screening: The HPV test will be the primary method for cervical cancer screening. Reflex cytology will happen automatically on appropriate HPV positive screening test results.
  • How to Access Screening: HPV tests will be available through primary care providers, including family doctors and nurse practitioners. The COHT Unattached Clinic hosts monthly HPV Cervical Cancer Screening Clinics on the third Wednesday of each month.

Additional information, including the Ontario Health requisitions, cover letter, FAQs, and guidelines, can be found at: https://ontariohealth.ca/hpvhub.

Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer is a significant health concern in Ontario. Regular screening can detect precancerous polyps, which can be removed before they turn into cancer.

  • When to Get Screened: Individuals aged 50 to 74 should get screened every two years using the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT).
  • Types of Screening: The primary screening test is the FIT, which is simple and can be done at home.
  • How to Access Screening: FIT kits are available through primary care providers or can be ordered online through the Cancer Care Ontario website.

Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in Ontario. Early detection through regular screening can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

  • When to Get Screened: Women aged 50 to 74 should have a mammogram every two years. Women aged 40 – 49 are encouraged to make an informed decision based on their personal risks.
  • Types of Screening: Mammography is the most effective screening tool for breast cancer.
  • How to Access Screening: The Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) provides high-quality mammography services across the province. Appointments can be viewed through Wait Times | Ontario Health and self referral is newly available.

Local Initiatives

The Couchiching Ontario Health Team is taking several steps to amplify the importance of cancer screening in our area:

  1. Community Outreach: We are actively getting the word out about the importance of cancer screening through local media, social media campaigns, and community events.
  2. Monthly Screening Clinics: COHT Unattached Clinic is running monthly cervical cancer screening clinics to make it easier to access these vital services. These clinics are open to all unattached residents.
  3. Pathways for Unattached Patients: We have established pathways to ensure that unattached patients – those without a regular primary care provider – can still access cancer screening and follow up. Our team is working closely with local healthcare providers to facilitate referrals and follow-up care.

The Role of Primary Care in Cancer Screening

Primary care providers play a vital role in cancer screening by ensuring patients are informed about the importance of regular screening and facilitating access to screening services. By integrating cancer screening into routine primary care visits, we can increase participation rates and improve early detection.  The COHT Unattached Clinic is available to support people in the Couchiching region who do not have a primary care provider.

Preventive Care and Community Health

Cancer screening is a cornerstone of preventive care. Early detection through regular screening not only improves survival rates but also reduces the burden on the healthcare system. We encourage all eligible residents of the Couchiching area to participate in regular cancer screening and to discuss their screening options with their primary care providers.

For more information on cancer screening and to access services, you can call The Simcoe Muskoka Cancer Screening Hotline at 1-866-608-6910 or visit the Cancer Care Ontario website at www.cancercareontario.ca.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Jillian Fenik, Executive Director
Couchiching Ontario Health Team
Tel: 705-955-4756
Email: J.Fenik@coht.ca

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The Couchiching Ontario Health Team remains dedicated to enhancing community health through proactive cancer screening, early detection, and prevention efforts.