In recognition of the connection between housing and health, UHN's Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine has recruited three international experts to help advocate, expand and explore more social policy options for UHN's highest needs patients who are unhoused.
The Social Medicine Housing Fellows will work with the Gattuso Centre's Lived Experience Advisory Council to help inform health policy strategies and partnerships to advance housing access as a social determinant of health – at UHN and beyond.
"We know that housing and health are inextricably linked," says Dr. Andrew Boozary, a primary care physician and founding Executive Director of the UHN Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine.
"Without a secure place to call home, individuals face increased risks of chronic illnesses, mental health issues and premature death."
In an
article in Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) published earlier this spring, Dr. Boozary and his co-authors labelled homelessness "a health crisis" that warrants meaningful action by health care networks across the country.
As Canada's No. 1 hospital, UHN is taking the lead in addressing this. A 51-unit Social Medicine Housing Initiative that will soon open at 90 Dunn Ave. in the Parkdale neighbourhood is a partnership of the Gattuso Centre, City of Toronto, United Way Greater Toronto and Fred Victor, and believed to be the first-of-its-kind hospital-led supportive housing in the country.
Appointment of the Social Medicine Housing Fellows is another example of partnering beyond hospital walls, advancing unconventional solutions and creating more opportunities to improve health outcomes for the patients and communities UHN serves.
"Our aim is to address health disparities by integrating housing solutions into our health care delivery models," says Dr. Boozary. "Incorporating the expertise of world-renowned housing specialists into our network, we are focused on setting a new standard on patient care.
"This collaborative effort signifies a major push towards a future where everyone has access to the fundamental human right of adequate housing to obtain health and well-being."
The new UHN Social Medicine Housing Fellows are:
- Leilani Farha: Known globally for her role as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Right to Housing, Leilani is a renowned expert in human rights advocacy. Her extensive experience in housing policy will be instrumental in shaping UHN's approach to supportive housing.
- Paul Karakusevic: As an acclaimed architect specializing in public housing, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge in designing inclusive, sustainable living spaces. His expertise will ensure that UHN's housing projects are not just homes but thriving communities.
- Omar Gandhi: An award-winning architect celebrated for his community-centric designs, Omar's work focuses on creating spaces that foster social equity. His innovative approach will help UHN build environments that support the health and well-being of residents.
