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Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit launches new Strategic Plan

January 30, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) has released its 2026-2029 Strategic Plan.

The strategic plan is the first developed under the leadership of SMDHU’s acting medical officer of health (appointment pending provincial approval) and chief executive officer, Dr. Lisa Simon.

The plan sets the course for the organization’s areas of focus over the next four years, positioning the health unit to meet evolving public health needs and to continually enhance its work with communities.

The Health Unit’s core mandate and mission are the protection of health, prevention of disease, and promotion of well-being.

Four new strategic directions – community engagement, equity-driven action, quality and innovation, and a skilled and connected workforce – will drive how the SMDHU will work together to build strong relationships, reduce health inequities, and deliver high-quality, evidence-informed programs and services.

The plan is a roadmap for how the Health Unit will optimize its impact towards its vision of ‘Healthy Communities, Healthy People.’

“At its core, the new strategic plan reinforces our commitment to collaboration to improve the health of communities across Simcoe Muskoka,” said Ann-Marie Kungl, chair of the SMDHU Board of Health. “As a board, we are confident that, guided by this plan, the Health Unit will continue to lead with excellence and accountability, ensuring healthier communities for all.”|

To develop the plan, the Health Unit gathered input from employees, board members, and community partners.

It reviewed local data and context, and ensured the priorities being set reflect the feedback received.

The Health Unit’s strategic plan remains true to its principles of collaborating with communities to enable everyone an opportunity to achieve optimal health.

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