New online resource helps keep Franco-Ontarians healthy

For Immediate Release - September 29, 2006 (Toronto) – Family physicians and other healthcare providers with Francophone patients are now equipped with an exceptional new tool to help them support those they care for with mental health and addiction problems.

Launched today, reseaufranco.com is a much needed addition to the repertoire of information healthcare providers require to deliver timely and appropriate care to their Francophone patients. Developed by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Canada’s largest mental health and addictions facility located in Toronto and throughout the province, reseaufranco.com is a unique bilingual web resource, online network and clearinghouse for addiction and mental health primary care professionals serving francophone communities across Ontario.

“The significance of this site is that it offers visitors general information on addiction and mental health issues, treatment options and available programs, as well as materials for use with clients, families and other healthcare professionals,” explains Nancy Mulroney, Director of French Language Services at CAMH. “Until now, there has been nothing like this around.”

The site carries the most up-to-date, evidence-based resources available, and users can be confident that all the information on this site is accurate. CAMH is an internationally recognized specialty teaching hospital and research facility – as well as an educational and training institute that proudly offers community-based health promotion and prevention services across the province of Ontario. CAMH is pleased to recognize the development of this website was made possible through a financial contribution from Health Canada through the Société Santé en français. More information about CAMH can be found at www.camh.net.

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For further information, please contact the project coordinator, Marie-Hélène Fokias at 416-535-8501 ext. 2167.