See a list of Frequently Asked Questions 

Ross Memorial Hospital staff, physicians and patients now benefit from telemedicine through the use of NORTH Network, a partner in the Ontario Telemedicine Network.

Launched in 1998, NORTH Network is a telemedicine program that uses cameras and televisions to provide increased access to medical specialists and other allied health professionals for residents of rural and under-serviced communities across Ontario.

NORTH is a program of Sunnybrook and Women's College Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, and receives its funding from the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care. More than 2000 physicians and other allied health professionals use the Network, which currently links more than 120 community sites across Ontario.

Using live, two-way videoconferencing, Network clinicians apply the latest tele-diagnostic instruments - including digital stethoscopes, patient examination cameras, endoscopic equipment and digital imaging facilities - to examine and prescribe treatment. 

This technology means that a patient in a more remote area can "visit" an out-of-town specialist from their home community rather than having to travel.

The Ontario Telemedicine Network is invaluable in bringing highly specialized care to patients in the City of Kawartha Lakes. Timely access to such care, without the need to travel great distances, is an important benefit to our community, particularly our seniors.

While the primary focus of the Ontario Telemedicine Network is to provide specialty consultations to rural and community hospitals, the hospitals are also able to maximize on the potential of the Telemedicine equipment for other essential purposes such as:

• Continuing education programs for patients and families
• Continuing education for medical, nursing and allied health personnel
• Clinical rounds and peer-to-peer consultations
• Research opportunities

Click here for a complete list of Programs & Services offered at Ross Memorial Hospital