Poverty and Health Information for Physicians

Health is shaped by genetics and behaviours that include smoking, diet and physical activity. However, a person's social and economic status can also predict their health. Residents in the most socially and economically deprived areas within Halton Region:

• Visit emergency departments more often
• Are hospitalized more frequently
• Have higher rates of premature death

Use the following tools and resources to help low income patients:

• Financial Assistance for Dental Treatment
  Financial assistance for dental treatment is available to children and youth 17 years old and under, adults and seniors.
• Poverty Assessment Tool for Physicians (external link)
  Follow three steps to address poverty in primary care practices.
• Where to Get Help in Halton (PDF file)
  This brochure provides information on how to access Halton Region community services.
• If You Want to Help Me, Prescribe Me Money (external link)
  Dr. Gary Bloch (Toronto physician) explains how family doctors can "prescribe income" and other ideas to help make poverty treatable.
• Where to Get Food in Halton (PDF file)
  Access this directory of Halton Region's non-profit and community organizations that provide safe and nutritious food.
• Let’s Start a Conversation about Health (external link)
  This video shows why health is about more than having access to medical care.