Health Equity and Fairness for Everyone

Having access to healthcare alone does not make someone healthy. Health is also affected by where we live, work, and play. Social factors like income, education, community support, and early childhood development affect health. These social factors are called the social determinants of health.

Health Equity means that ALL members of the community have good opportunities to be healthy - regardless of their age, income level, gender, ethnic background, or any other social or economic reasons.

Creating equitable opportunities for health is part of Ottawa Public Health's current strategic plan. We work towards health equity in many ways, for example:

  • We monitor and report on the relationship between social factors, like income, and health outcomes in Ottawa;
  • We develop meaningful partnerships with community partners and organizations that work with people facing health inequities;
  • We modify our services to include those who have fewer opportunities to be healthy;
  • We participate in policy development to address the social determinants of health.

For more information related to Health Equity or the social determinants of health, you can visit:

Please contact OPH if you have any questions at 613-580-6744.

Diversity and Inclusion

The City of Ottawa is committed to respecting the cultural diversity of all its residents. We strive to ensure that the services we provide are free from discrimination and are inclusive and reflective of all we serve. We embrace diversity at all levels including sexual orientation, gender identity, ethno cultural identity, and immigrant status.

Ottawa Public Health endeavours to ensure that its content and services are open, inclusive, safe, affirming and positive for of all the LGBTTQ+ community members and their allies.

We are adding articles, content, and resources on a regular basis.

We are striving to use inclusive language as well as inclusive photographs throughout the website, so that all families, regardless of family composition, cultural background, or preferred spoken language can see themselves as part of this community.

We would love to hear from you if you have feedback regarding our content or services.

Feel free to send us an email: healthsante@ottawa.ca.

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