Brampton, Ryerson University continue to collaborate on future medical school

A representative from Ryerson University appeared at Wednesday’s Committee of Council meeting to ask Brampton councillors for a $1M planning grant, matching the commitment of the Province, as it continues down the road towards building Canada’s 18th medical school.

Mohamed Lachemi, president and vice-chancellor of Ryerson, gave a presentation to councillors outlining the goals and ambitions of the proposed facility, saying the vision is for a new kind of medical school.

“I am extremely excited by the opportunity for Ryerson to build out its vision for a new kind of medical school in Brampton, one that delivers a people-centered, partnership-based approach to healthcare education and delivery that will have implications across the Peel Region and beyond,” said Lachemi.

The money for the proposed Brampton School of Medicine was promised in the 2021-22 Provincial budget, allowing Ryerson to develop a full proposal for the facility.

“Ryerson University has a track record of doing things differently to address societal needs. While other medical schools may talk about their commitments to community health, this will be a purpose-built approach that will ensure that the next generation of doctors trained in Brampton will operate differently to support the health of the community, and in so doing, will contribute to more equitable access to care.”

Lachemi outlined what he feels are the key challenges facing health care in Ontario:

• Acute care is not enough to address the needs of the municipality
• Chronic diseases like diabetes and complex needs stretch an overloaded system
• Lack of access for some communities creates a greater need for attention to equity
• Lack of innovation and technology in healthcare that identifies issues earlier and address patient needs

“With our demonstrated capacity for innovation in curriculum and practice, our ability to attract talent from diverse backgrounds, and our focus on culturally respectful approaches, Ryerson has demonstrated our commitment to meeting local needs and to embedding an inter-professional practice orientation. Ryerson University has a track record of doing things differently to address societal needs.”

Lachemi said the COVID-19 pandemic has made clear the challenges faced by Ontario’s healthcare system while, at the same time, highlighting the urgent need for healthcare transformation.

“Brampton and Ryerson University have partnered to innovate on projects like the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst – which is leading the way in addressing the serious challenges of cybersecurity; the Ryerson Venture Zone – which is cultivating entrepreneurship and innovation in Brampton; and the G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education – which offers flexible learning opportunities in high-demand subject areas to Brampton residents. I hope that as we continue to forge a path forward for healthcare transformation in Brampton, we can build on this collaborative spirit for partnership.”

Photo courtesy Ryerson