Osler recognized as one of Canada's Best Diversity Employers for 2013

National award speaks to organization's commitment to diversity and inclusivity

BRAMPTON AND ETOBICOKE, ON, Feb. 19, 2013 /CNW/ - William Osler Health System (Osler) is among the best in the country when it comes to creating a workplace that is inclusive, respectful, welcoming and accessible. Osler has been honoured with a Canada's Best Diversity Employers award, which recognizes employers across the country for their exemplary workplace diversity and inclusiveness programs.

"This is an outstanding achievement for Osler and one that we must credit to the tremendous efforts of our staff, physicians and volunteers in creating an environment that allows us to better understand and appreciate the unique beliefs and values of one another, as well as those of our patients and their families," said Kay Blair, Osler Board Chair. "This recognition is a first for Osler and a testament to our innovation in workplace diversity and inclusion, as well as our commitment to full integration within our organization."

In addition to initiatives that focus on breaking down barriers around language and communications, Osler has implemented a corporate Diversity Strategy, struck a Diversity Executive Committee, and formed a Corporate Diversity Advisory Council - all with an aim to improve equity, access and inclusiveness across the organization, and to help support the provision of patient-centred care. Diversity e-learning modules have also been developed and implemented, along with a number of diversity tools and resources for staff, physicians and volunteers - including annual Multi-Faith and Diversity Day events, conferences, panel discussions and FAQ sessions.

"We are committed to providing an inclusive and equitable environment for everyone who comes through our doors - from our staff, physicians and volunteers to our patients and their families," said Matthew Anderson, Osler President and CEO. "Diversity is something that is in our DNA at Osler - it is embedded in our clinical services, our human resources policies, and our workplace culture. We are very proud of our diversity successes and our ability to come together each and every day as a strong and cohesive team, providing quality care to our community."

Osler's Canada's Best Diversity Employers award comes on the heels of its Exemplary Accreditation designation, which recognized Osler for its leading practice in 'Embracing Diverse Practices in Palliative Care'.

About William Osler Health System and the Foundation: William Osler Health System (Osler) is a hospital system 'Accredited with Exemplary Standing' from Accreditation Canada serving 1.3 million residents of Brampton, Etobicoke, and surrounding communities of the Central West Local Health Integration Network. Osler delivers more babies than any other hospital in the province, and its emergency departments are among the busiest in Ontario. William Osler Health System Foundation fosters relationships in order to raise funds for Osler's capital, education and research priorities at Brampton Civic Hospital, Etobicoke General Hospital and Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health & Wellness (targeted for completion in 2015-16).

SOURCE: William Osler Health System Foundation

Cara Francis
External Communications Specialist
William Osler Health System
905-494-2120 ext. 59467
@OslerHealth