Building Our Future
Mission
Vision
Values
Mission
As a strategic solutions centre committed to exceptional service delivery, TransForm leads, innovates and supports health system transformation.
Vision
Transform and innovate the healthcare system through strategic partnerships as a leader in service excellence.
Values
Collaboration, Accountability, Integrity, and Equity.
Strategic Goals
Strategic Goals of Digital Health Advancement and Organizational Excellence are achieved through:
Service
We will provide exceptional service to our member hospitals and customers.
Performance
We will provide maximum value to our member hospitals and the customers we serve.
Innovation
By leading change, we will create new opportunities that improve the health system.
People
We will create an environment that supports our people as they strive for personal excellence.
CEO & Board Chair Message
Over the past year, TransForm has been dedicated to both recovering from a cyber-attack and planning our ambitious strategic roadmap. Rather than dividing our focus, we have been unified – demonstrating exceptional clarity on the path ahead and leveraging our experiences and skills to not only recover but to continue to support our partners in their digital health goals.
To realize our goal, it is crucial not only to assemble the right building blocks but also to ensure that the building blocks fit together to form a strong and resilient foundation. We are thrilled to unveil the significant strides we’ve made, laying the groundwork for a strategic expansion of our capabilities that directly benefits every one of our stakeholders. Our steadfast commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and collaboration empowers us to adapt quickly to the changing political, cybersecurity and financial environments, the ever-evolving needs of our hospital partners, customers, and the broader region we serve. At the heart of this effort is our new Regional Digital Health Strategy, thoughtfully designed to address both the clinical and business needs of our partners while ensuring TransForm is strategically positioned for long-term success.
In the year ahead, TransForm will prioritize key areas essential to driving our mission forward. These include workforce enablement, customer service excellence, digital service excellence, and the pursuit of efficient workforce operations alongside innovative digital services. A pivotal focus will be our team. We will continue to invest in providing enhanced training opportunities and career development programs, empowering our team members to thrive and contribute to their highest potential. Additionally, we are formalizing recruitment pipelines through dynamic partnerships with higher education institutions and other organizations to ensure we attract and cultivate the talent necessary to achieve our goals.
These initiatives will solidify our position as a forward-thinking organization, poised to meet the future of digital health from a position of strength, and will also include:
- Continuing to secure our systems against cybersecurity threats
- Regional deployment of Enterprise Resource Planning software
- Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in various applications to decrease the administrative burden for clinical and non-clinical staff
- Increasing interoperability and data sharing outside the four walls of the hospitalto support care where and when it’s needed
- Supporting other health service providers whether it be within the four walls of a hospital or in the community
A very special thank you to our dedicated employees who have embraced our vision, worked tirelessly and collaboratively to further our mission to positively transform health care delivery in Ontario and beyond.
As we move forward, we remain dedicated to our mission of delivering exceptional service as a strategic digital solution centre to our stakeholders. Our strategic priorities will continue to focus on service excellence, sustainable growth, technological advancement, and community engagement. We are confident that as our foundation continues to strengthen and focus on delivering on our mission, TransForm will create a lasting positive impact on the entire health ecosystem.
Thank you for your continued support and trust in our vision.
Innovation
Innovating Tomorrow’s Digital Health in Erie St. Clair and Beyond
In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, innovation means not only adopting new technologies but also building a coordinated, resilient, and patient-centered system that supports the health and wellbeing of entire communities. In 2024, TransForm Shared Service Organization took a major step forward by launching a Regional Digital Health Strategy, a bold multi-year roadmap designed to modernize healthcare delivery, drive digital service excellence, and support care teams and patients across the region.
This is the first time our organization has developed a comprehensive strategy focused solely on digital health services. It marks a pivotal transformation in our role and capacity as a shared service organization. TransForm seized the opportunity to sharpen its focus and deliver a clear vision for the future.
Shaped by Our Partners, Innovating to Deliver Better Care
The strategy was developed in close collaboration with our member hospitals and partners, and is grounded in shared priorities with a collective goal: to build a digitally connected health system that is secure, responsive, and equitable to deliver better care to our community. The development process included environmental scans, market analysis, stakeholder engagement, and operational planning, all while aligning with provincial and regional priorities.
The result is a five-year roadmap, beginning in 2024 and extending through 2029, that positions TransForm as a digital health leader in Ontario. The strategy is anchored by four key pillars:
Patient-Centred Care:
Designing inclusive digital ecosystems that improve the patient journey, with initiatives like user-friendly patient portals and human-centered design training.
Supporting the Workforce:
Equipping health care teams with modern digital tools and integrated platforms, including regional enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and digital onboarding pipelines.
Building for the Future:
Driving digital innovation, modernizing infrastructure through cloud strategies, and contributing to long-term system transformation through the LDG (Local Delivery Groups) model.
Advancing Population Health:
Enhancing data-sharing capabilities, EMR functionality, and capacity management to enable more equitable, informed, and efficient care.
A Strategy Grounded in Reality and the Challenges Ahead
Our regional digital health strategy is grounded in both ambition and a clear understanding of the challenges we face today—and the opportunities ahead. We recognize the need for digital services that are flexible, secure, and responsive to the unique needs of our communities. This includes modernizing outdated systems, and strengthening our partnerships—not only with hospitals and healthcare providers, but with the broader community. Your voices, concerns, and expectations are central to how we shape and deliver digital health services.
Through this strategy, TransForm is taking meaningful steps to:
- Simplify and strengthen how decisions are made
- Design services that are easy to use and meet the needs of our stakeholders
- Prioritize service excellence
Stay ahead of evolving cybersecurity threats
By working together, we can build a digital health system that is resilient, transparent, and truly patient and community-centered.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
To ensure the success of our regional digital health strategy, TransForm has embedded essential operational and organizational foundations that support long-term sustainability and innovation. These include Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) certification for our workforce to strengthen service excellence by equipping the team with knowledge and tools to deliver consistent, reliable and user-centred digital services within a globally recognized framework; a revised service delivery model focused on responsiveness and value; a refreshed communications approach to foster transparency; and a realigned internal structure that prioritizes partnership, digital leadership, and innovation.
But this strategy is about more than just technology—it builds upon existing relationships, shared capacity, and a commitment to creating a truly collaborative digital health ecosystem across the region.
By 2029, we envision a system where patients, clinicians, and health leaders are supported by seamless digital tools and services—powered by shared data and designed to improve health outcomes for everyone.
Through bold vision, strong partnerships, and a relentless focus on continuous improvement, TransForm is proud to lead the region into the next era of healthcare—one that is digitally enabled, patient-focused, and driven by innovation.
Innovation
Ontario eHub: Powering the Evolution of Health Information Exchange
At TransForm, innovation is more than a strategic priority—it’s how we help build a smarter, more connected healthcare system for everyone. As a recognized leader in digital health transformation across Ontario, we continue to play a vital role in improving efficiency, strengthening security, and enhancing the quality of care through forward-thinking, province-wide initiatives.
One of the most impactful innovations we’ve supported is the Ontario eHub Health Information Exchange (HIE). Launched over two years ago through Project AMPLIFI, in partnership with St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, eHub was designed to modernize how patient health information is shared across care settings. Initially, it focused on connecting Ontario’s 66 hospitals using Oracle Health’s hospital information system (HIS) with long-term care (LTC) homes using PointClickCare electronic medical records (EMRs).
This early phase laid the foundation for a truly integrated digital ecosystem—one that supports better clinical decision-making, reduces administrative burden, and ultimately improves patient care.
Since then, Ontario eHub has grown significantly in both scope and impact. It now supports integrations with other major hospital systems like Epic and MEDITECH, making it a more inclusive and flexible solution for health information sharing across the province. In addition to standard visit data, the platform now enables the exchange of clinical notes, giving care teams a more complete and timely view of a patient’s health journey.
For patients and families, this means safer, more coordinated care. For providers, it means better tools to support informed decisions. And for our communities, it means a stronger, more connected healthcare system—built on trust, collaboration, and innovation.
To date, TransForm and the AMPLIFI team have successfully established HIE connections with:
66
All 66 Oracle Health (Cerner) hospitals in Ontario
14
Epic Hospitals
400
Over 400 Long-Term Care Homes
22
MEDITECH Hospitals
Looking ahead, innovation remains at the heart of our work.
TransForm is already taking steps to expand the types of clinical data that can be securely shared across the system—such as laboratory results and diagnostic imaging (DI) reports. We’re also working to bring more hospitals, long-term care homes, and community-based providers—including those not currently using Oracle Health—into the network.
This expansion will help ensure that care teams across the region have timely access to the information they need, no matter where a patient receives care.
The Ontario eHub is the first initiative of its kind in the province, and a powerful example of how TransForm is leading system-wide innovation that delivers real, lasting benefits for patients, providers, and the broader health system.
By building stronger connections and enabling smarter data sharing, we’re helping to create a more coordinated, responsive, and patient-centered healthcare experience for everyone in our region.
Service
Strengthening Our Digital Future: TransForm’s Journey to the Cloud
To better serve our communities and healthcare partners, TransForm announced a major step in our digital transformation: the multi-phased “Journey to the Cloud” (J2C) initiative. This strategic move to a cloud-based environment is designed to modernize our digital infrastructure and improve how we connect, collaborate, and protect information across Erie St. Clair but also with trusted partners across the province.
Through this initiative, we are transitioning from traditional on-premise systems to cloud-based solutions, including tools like Outlook email and Microsoft Teams. These changes will bring meaningful benefits to our organization and the broader health system, such as:
- Improved system performance and reliability
- Lower IT maintenance costs
- Stronger cybersecurity protections
A key driver of this transformation is based on a recommendation from Ontario Health to host our email systems in the Cloud—an important step in enhancing our security posture and safeguarding sensitive health information against the ever-evolving global cyber threats.
Cloud migration means moving our digital assets, services, and applications to a secure, scalable environment that supports innovation and growth. This is more than a technology upgrade—it’s a commitment to building a more connected, resilient, and future-ready health system for Erie St. Clair and beyond.
Service
Putting People First: TransForm’s Commitment to Good Service
What Is the Good Services Framework?
The framework is based on user-centred design, which means we start by understanding the real needs of the people using our services—whether they’re healthcare providers, staff, or patients—and then build solutions around those needs.
- Being easy to find and access
- Using clear, plain language
- Supporting users through every step of the process
- Being inclusive and accessible to everyone
Why It Matters to Our Community
- Design better digital and in-person services that are intuitive and efficient
- Improve how we measure success, with new metrics that reflect real user experiences
- Support our healthcare partners by making their day-to-day work easier and more seamless
- Enhance patient care by reducing friction in the systems that support it
A Step Toward Organizational Excellence
By putting people at the centre of everything we do, we’re not just improving services—we’re building trust, strengthening partnerships, and helping to create a more connected, compassionate health system.
Performance
Data Governance and Security
At TransForm, we are committed to data governance—a foundational part of how we ensure the security, quality, and responsible use of data across our systems.
What Is Data Governance?
Data governance is the set of policies, processes, and standards that guide how data is:
Collected
Stored
Accessed
Shared
Protected
It ensures that data is accurate, consistent, and used ethically—so that everyone, from healthcare providers to patients, can rely on it with confidence.
Why It Matters for Security
- Strong data governance is a cornerstone of cybersecurity for many reasons: Clear Ownership and Accountability: It defines who is responsible for data, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or misuse.
- Access Controls: It ensures that only the right people have access to the right data at the right time.
- Data Integrity: It protects data from being altered or corrupted, which is critical for clinical decisions and patient safety.
- Compliance: It helps us meet legal and regulatory requirements, such as privacy laws and health data standards.
- Incident Response: In the event of a breach or cyber threat, good governance allows for faster, more effective responses.
In short, you can’t have strong security without strong data governance.
This is part of our broader commitment to Organizational Excellence and to building a digital health system that is secure, efficient, and centered on the needs of our community.
Performance
Driving Service Excellence Through Strategy, Stewardship, and Smart Project Delivery
At TransForm, we’re committed to delivering services that make a real difference in the lives of patients, families, and healthcare teams. One of the key ways we do this is through the work of our Enterprise Project Management Office (EPMO)—a team dedicated to ensuring that every project we lead is strategic, well-coordinated, and focused on improving care.
Since its creation, the EPMO has helped shape how TransForm delivers consistent, high-quality services across our member hospitals. It’s more than just a project framework—it’s a disciplined, collaborative approach that aligns regional priorities, ensures strong governance, and accelerates meaningful impact.
As we take on more complex digital health initiatives, the EPMO provides the structure and expertise needed to lead change efficiently and with purpose.
2024-25 Highlights: Projects That Make a Difference
A few examples of how EPMO helped drive improvements across our region:
Strengthening Connectivity Across Campuses
Regional Wireless Network Refresh
Reliable wireless access is essential in today’s hospitals. This major infrastructure upgrade improved wireless performance and security across eight campuses and over 2,600 access points. It supports everything from clinical documentation to mobile diagnostics, helping care teams access patient records in real time. For patients and families, it means better Wi-Fi and smoother care experiences.
Enabling Faster Stroke Intervention
Regional RapidAI Imaging
TransForm led the regional rollout of RapidAI, an advanced imaging tool that helps stroke teams quickly identify candidates for life-saving treatment. By automating image analysis and standardizing interpretation across hospitals, we’re enabling faster decisions and reducing unnecessary patient transfers—giving patients a better chance at recovery when every second counts.
Modernizing Workforce Systems
Regional Timekeeping & Scheduling
We replaced outdated systems with a more modern, mobile-enabled platform that improves scheduling and staffing efficiency. With three hospitals already live and two more launching in fall 2025, this upgrade supports smoother operations and reduces administrative burden for staff.
Listening to Patients, Learning from Experience
Regional Patient Survey Implementation
Understanding patient feedback is key to improving care. A new survey platform was implemented that allows hospitals to collect real-time insights from patients, helping teams respond quickly and thoughtfully. It’s already guiding service improvements and strengthening patient engagement across the region.
Enhancing Meal Services for Patients
Regional Food Services Management Upgrade
We upgraded the food services management system to give patients more control over their meals, involve family members, and ensure dietary needs are met. Staff can now monitor orders in real time, reducing wait times and improving the overall patient experience.
Why this Matters
Performance
One Patient, One Record: A Major Step Forward in Regional Health Care
This past year, we proudly celebrated a major milestone in our journey toward a more connected and patient-centered health system: the successful launch of e-VOLVE Phase 4 at Bluewater Health (BWH). With this achievement, BWH has officially joined a fully integrated regional Oracle Health Information System (HIS)—bringing us closer to “One Patient, One Record.”
What Does This Mean for Our Community?
This isn’t just a technology upgrade—it’s a transformation in how care is delivered, accessed, and experienced. By uniting BWH with six other TransForm-supported organizations (including four hospitals, Hospice, and Shelter Health) on a single, modern digital platform, we’re creating a seamless, standardized system that benefits everyone.
Here’s how this impacts patients and families:
Faster, Safer Care
Health care providers can now access your medical history, test results, and treatment plans in real time—no matter which partner hospital you visit. This reduces delays and helps clinicians make faster, more informed decisions.
Less Repetition
You won’t have to repeat your medical history or undergo unnecessary duplicate tests. Your information follows you, securely and accurately.
Better Communication
Doctors, nurses, and specialists across the region can collaborate more easily, improving coordination and continuity of care.
Improved Patient Experience
Whether you’re in Sarnia, Windsor, Leamington, or Chatham, your care team will have the same up-to-date information—making your experience smoother and more consistent.
Why It Matters
This regional system is a cornerstone of our Digital Health Strategy and a key part of Ontario’s broader vision for a connected health system. It enhances how systems talk to each other, streamlines hospital and IT operations, and lays the groundwork for future innovations—like virtual care, AI-powered diagnostics, and more personalized treatment plans.
By investing in this shared platform, we’re not only improving care today—we’re building a stronger, smarter health system for tomorrow.
People
Embedding Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at the Heart of TransForm
At TransForm, we know that building a stronger health system starts with building a stronger workplace—one where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. That’s why, in March 2025, we proudly launched our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy—a long-term commitment to creating a culture of belonging that touches every part of our organization.
A Strategy Rooted in Listening and Collaboration
This milestone reflects over two years of thoughtful planning, engagement, and collaboration. It began in 2023, when feedback from our employee engagement survey revealed a shared desire for greater inclusion, cultural awareness, and connection across teams. With strong leadership support and input from staff across departments, we’ve shaped a strategy that reflects our values and our vision for the future.
What the Strategy Means
Developed by our Human Resources team in partnership with employees and internal committees, the EDI Strategy is more than a document—it’s a roadmap for action. It guides how we:
- Recruit and retain diverse talent
- Foster inclusive leadership and team culture
- Deliver training that builds awareness and empathy
- Use data to understand and respond to the lived experiences of our people
It also emphasizes equity as a core organizational value, ensuring that fairness and inclusion are embedded in how we make decisions, design services, and support our teams.
Why It Matters to Our Community
For our community stakeholders, this work is essential. A more inclusive and equitable TransForm means:
- Better representation and understanding of the diverse communities we serve
- More culturally responsive services and solutions
- A workplace where staff feel empowered to bring their full selves to work—leading to better collaboration, innovation, and care delivery
More Than an Initiative—A Core Commitment
Equity, diversity, and inclusion are not side projects. They are central to our mission, our values, and our future. They are about creating a workplace where every individual can thrive authentically, contribute meaningfully, and feel proud to be part of the TransForm team.
Together, we’re not just changing policies—we’re changing culture. And that’s how we build a better, more equitable health system for everyone.
PEOPLE
A Workplace Built on Listening, Action, and Care
At TransForm, we believe that a strong health system starts with a strong workplace—one where people feel supported, connected, and proud to belong. In 2024, we reached a meaningful milestone in that journey: a record-breaking 91% employee engagement score, the highest in our organization’s history.
But this number tells more than just a story of satisfaction—it reflects a culture built on listening, responding, and caring.
Turning Feedback Into Action
In 2023, our employee engagement survey gave us valuable insights into what matters most to our team. Employees asked for:
- More recognition
- Stronger manager support
- Fair and competitive compensation
In response, our leadership team and the People Engaging People (PEP) Committee took action. We introduced new appreciation programs, spotlight features, and dedicated moments to celebrate success. Managers received enhanced tools and training to lead with empathy and effectiveness. And we conducted a comprehensive review of our compensation program to ensure fairness and alignment with sector standards—building trust and reinforcing our commitment to equity.
Creating a Culture of Belonging
Beyond these priorities, employees also reported:
- Improved work-life balance
- Greater access to career development
- Better tools to do their jobs well
These changes reflect a workplace that is evolving thoughtfully—one that values transparency, collaboration, and care.
Looking Ahead: Building on Momentum
Our newly launched Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy builds on this momentum, reinforcing our commitment to a culture where every voice matters and every individual can thrive. It’s a continuation of our promise to create a workplace that reflects the diversity of our communities and the values we share.
This progress means more than just internal success. It means:
- A more engaged and empowered workforce
- Better collaboration across teams and organizations
- Stronger service delivery for hospitals, clinicians, and patients
At TransForm, our people are the foundation of everything we do. Their engagement, passion, and insight continue to shape not only who we are—but the future we’re building together.
BY THE NUMBERS
