Health Professions

Profession

The Central Sterile Reprocessing (CSR) department has 44 staff members at both the General site and Branson Ambulatory Care Centre. A supervisor is located at the General site. Medical devices are reprocessed and sterilized in the CSR department for patient use. These devices include: OR instruments, respiratory devices (such as masks, laryngoscopes), emergency trays (for example: laceration trays, cutdown trays), L & D C-section trays, angio trays, circumcision trays, endoscopes, gastroscopes, bronchoscopes, cystoscopes, and ophthalmology instruments (Branson Ambulatory Care Centre).

Education program

Practicum experience is offered for students attending the Sterile Reprocessing Course at Centennial College and Fanshawe College. The placement is usually four weeks and held during the spring and summer months. There is capacity to take two students at a time. Students are assigned to a preceptor during their placement and are also supervised by their college instructor. Shift work is required.

Seeking a placement

Placement requests must be coordinated by the academic institution and the Centre for Education. The college placement coordinator will have information on possible options for placement at North York General Hospital. To reach a staff member, view our contacts below.

Starting a placement

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

You will be asked to confirm your immunization status as well as your TB test results during the registration process. Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic institutions, you do not need to do anything else.

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students and must be submitted to your academic institution. If you have not provided the completed screen to your academic institution, you must upload it during the registration process.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

All mandatory training modules must be completed prior to the first day of your rotation. You will be asked to complete all the modules during your registration process on our Nirv registration system.

Prior to first day

• Complete the online registration form (Link will be emailed to you.)
• Complete all online mandatory training modules.

Online registration

All students must register for their placement through the Centre for Education (see Contacts tab below). You will receive a link to our registration system upon approval of your placement.

Online mandatory training

The online mandatory training program is designed in compliance with provincial legislation and to provide you with knowledge of our programs, services and policies.

On the first day

Bring with you:

Government issued photo ID — You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office. This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time.

Payment for parking (if applicable) — Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Contacts

Camelia Munteanu
CSR Supervisor
Tel: 416-756-6000 ext. 6107 or 4264

Natalia Damphousse
CSR Manager
Tel: 416-756-6000 ext. 6733 (General site)

Centre for Education

Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Profession

Registered Dietitians are an integral member of the health care team at NYGH, ensuring that patients meet their nutritional needs based on their illness or condition.

This involves medical nutrition therapy and may include oral diet modification and or supplementation, as well as more invasive nutrition support techniques such as enteral nutrition or parenteral nutrition. Nutrition care also involves patient and family education, and counselling on diet and lifestyle changes to improve or maintain health.

At NYGH, the Registered Dietitians provide clinical services in both inpatients and outpatients across all sites.  Inpatient services include the Neonatal Intensive Care, Critical Care, Reactivation Care Centre, Medicine, Surgery, Mental Health, and Oncology programs. Outpatient services include the Diabetes Education Centre, Centre for Complex Diabetes Care, Adolescent and Adult Eating Disorders Programs, Baruch/Weisz Cancer Centre, Cardiac Care Clinic, Mental Health Paediatric Clinic, Paediatric Complex Care Clinic, Geriatric Day Hospital, and the Outreach Team.

Registered dietitians are governed by the Regulated Health Professions Act through the College of Dietitians of Ontario in order to ensure safe and quality nutrition care is provided to the public.

Education program

Intake for PMDip students is currently on pause. NYGH has partnered with TMU in offering a clinical-focussed MHSc pilot program.

Professional Master’s Diploma in Dietetics (PMDip Dietetics)

NYGH-Toronto Metropolitan University’s Collaborative Professional Master’s Diploma (PMDip) in Dietetics is a professional program that provides practical, hands-on dietetic experience in clinical, population health, and management settings that enables students to obtain the Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice developed by  the Partnership for Dietetic Education and Practice.

Graduates are eligible to write the Canadian Dietetic Registration Exam and if successful, become Registered Dietitians.

Program duration: 3 semesters beginning each September and concluding end-July of following year.

Number of positions: 4

Application process/Program fees: Please refer to Toronto Metropolitan University School of Nutrition website for more details.

Program details

Nutrition Care

Theoretical knowledge of nutrition will be further developed in this practical setting. Skills are developed to function effectively as a member of the interprofessional health care team. Students will assess, plan and evaluate nutritional care for patients through application of evidence-based clinical guidelines and standards of care. Opportunities to further enhance skills in nutrition counseling and education for individuals and groups are provided in outpatient settings. Each rotation is 5-6 weeks in length.

Placement opportunities include the following areas:  General medicine, general surgery, elder care, neurology, mental health (adult, adolescent, geriatrics, and eating disorders), cancer care, palliative care, cardiology, neonatal ICU, critical care, diabetes education, and long-term care.

Management

Students will develop the skills and knowledge required to function as a member of the management team. You will gain experience with human resources, financial and materials management, food safety, food procurement, production, distribution and marketing. Students will spend 6-8 weeks in management.

Population and Public Health 

Students will gain knowledge and skills of health promotion assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation through completion of a capstone project in NC8300. Students will work in teams to engage a community of interest to develop and deliver nutrition education interventions. Students will be supported by the course instructor and health promotion experts during this project.

Interprofessional Education    

Students will have the opportunity to learn from Registered Dietitians and other health care professionals from a variety of disciplines. Students will participate in a variety of student Interprofessional Education (IPE) opportunities which examine unique and overlapping professional roles and effective collaborative skills necessary for the provision of Interprofessional Patient and Family Centered Care (PFCC).

Seeking a placement

Placement requests must be coordinated through your academic institution. All requests should be sent to the Centre for Education. Students can begin their clinical experience at the hospital only if their academic institution has an established affiliation agreement with North York General Hospital. Please check with your student placement office to ensure a valid agreement has been established. To reach a staff member, view our contacts below.

Additional placement opportunities

We accept students who are currently enrolled in Foods and Nutrition/Dietetics post-degree diplomas or Master’s programs.

For more information contact the Professional Practice Leader for Clinical Nutrition and Dietetic Education Coordinator.

Contacts

Marianna Dicio-Romanelli, BASc, RD
Interim Professional Practice Leader, Clinical Nutrition, &
Dietetic Internship Coordinator
North York General Hospital
Rm. 6N-610-2
T 416-756-6264
F 416-756-6956
Marianna.Dicio-Romanelli@nygh.on.ca

Centre for Education

Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Profession

Various health care professionals work in our laboratory at North York General Hospital, providing high-quality lab medicine and care for our patients. Our laboratory professionals often work behind the scenes to help physicians diagnose and treat patients, as well as monitor and prevent diseases through laboratory testing, diagnoses and analysis.

Our full service laboratory at the General site enables us to provide approximately 1.6 million tests annually. An expert team of pathologists, technologists, technicians and pathologists’ assistants serves our hospital 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. These professionals provide diagnostic, screening and monitoring tests for inpatients, outpatients and long-term care residents. Approximately 100 highly trained individuals work in our laboratory and provide excellent care to our patients.

Medical laboratory technologists

Medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) are the fourth-largest group of health care professionals in Ontario, who perform complex procedures on tissue specimens, blood samples and other body fluids providing information to physicians. They work in all areas of our laboratory, including biochemistry, hematology, transfusion medicine, pathology and microbiology, as well as in Genetics labs.

At NYGH, MLTs work in the department of Laboratory Medicine, where they operate a variety of complicated and state of the arts instruments. They possess good motor skills, hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity. In addition to technical skills, they employ attention to detail in order to detect subtle change to the microscopic appearance of blood, tissue and bacterial cells. MLTs also determine the validity of the results they obtain, which requires good analytical and critical thinking skills.

MLTs work in an ever-evolving environment, and on occasion need to design new procedures to reflect the rapid pace of change in their workplace. Whether working alone or as a member of a team, the MLT must be able to manage time efficiently and communicate clearly.

Medical laboratory technicians

Medical laboratory technicians, also referred to as medical laboratory assistants (MLAs) work alongside MLTs, but their day is focused on more of the prep work required for testing and diagnoses. MLAs are responsible for collecting blood and performing ECG; receiving and handling blood, tissue and other samples in the lab, logging samples and preparing them for testing. Also, MLAs assist in setting up, cleaning and maintaining laboratory and its equipment.

Pathologists’ assistants

Pathologists’ assistants (PAs) are highly trained laboratory professionals who work under the supervision of a pathologist, providing a broad range of services in anatomic pathology. Pathologists’ assistants are primarily responsible for the initial examination and dissection of all surgically removed tissues and, in some cases, assisting with the dissection of bodies during autopsies.

MLTs and MLAs

In the Laboratory and Specimen Collection Centre Licensing Act of 1990, the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care defines a medical laboratory technologist and a medical laboratory assistant/technician as different roles in terms of education, experience and responsibilities.

Partnerships

We also have regional and provincial partnerships. Our laboratory partnered with The Scarborough Hospital and Toronto East General Hospital to create the Shared Hospital Laboratory, located in northeast Toronto that handles microbiology testing. This cooperative venture enables more efficient use of resources, sharing of expertise and improved testing and screening ability.

North York General has partnered with Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and Canada Lab Solutions for reference testing. Tests of high complexity and low volume are centralized to ensure high quality and cost effectiveness. An interface between the sites will ensure a rapid turnaround time for reporting results.

The hospital provides laboratory testing for Seniors’ Health Centre (Buchan Court site), including the collection of samples. Our pathologists also provide expertise to some regional hospitals. Representatives from Laboratory Medicine are also members of regional laboratory steering committees.

Education program

Graduates of accredited programs for both medical laboratory technologists and medical laboratory assistants/technicians are eligible to write the national certification examinations conducted by the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science, or the provincial certification exams conducted by the Medical Laboratory Professionals’ Associaton of Ontario.

A medical laboratory technologist is a regulated health care professional in Ontario under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991and the Medical Laboratory Technology Act, 1991. After obtaining certification, a medical laboratory technologist must register with the College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario to be able to practice in the province. Currently, medical laboratory assistants/technicians are not regulated professions in Ontario, but the College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario is working toward having this important profession regulated in the future.

Seeking a placement

The Department of Laboratory Medicine contributes to the future of health care by providing education and clinical training for health professionals such as Pathology residents, MLTs and MLAs through its affiliations with the University of Toronto, the Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences and Centennial College.

Please contact your academic institution for a placement. To reach a staff member at NYGH, view our contacts below.

Starting a placement

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General Hospital:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

You will be asked to upload your immunization status including your TB test results during the registration process on our Nirv Registration System.
Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic
institutions you do not need to do anything else.

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students and must uploaded to the Nirv Registration system when prompted.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

All mandatory training modules must be completed prior to the first day of your rotation. You will be asked to complete all the modules during your registration process on our Nirv registration system.

Prior to first day

• Complete online registration form (Link will be emailed to you.)
• Complete all online mandatory training modules

Online registration

All students must register for their placement through the Centre for Education(see Contacts tab below). You will receive a link to our registration system upon approval of your placement.

Online mandatory training

The online mandatory training program is designed in compliance with provincial legislation and to provide you with knowledge of our programs, services and policies.

On the first day

Bring with you:

Government issued photo ID — You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office.  This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre or another NYGH location, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time. You will be required to leave a $20 deposit in order for you to receive your badge.  The deposit will be given back to you return your ID badge to the security office upon completion of your placement.

Payment for parking (if applicable) — Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Contacts

Contacts

For all MLT clinical placement related inquiries contact:
Nurun Muhammed
Site Clinical Coordinator
Medical Laboratory Science, Michener Institute & UOIT BHSc
Tel: 416-756-6470
nurun.muhammed@nygh.on.ca

For all MLA clinical placement related inquiries contact
Joanne Tomassi
Site Clinical Coordinator
Medical Laboratory Technician, Centennial College
Tel: 416-756-6751
joanne.tomassi@nygh.on.ca

Centre for Education
Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805

ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Profession

Medical radiation imaging technologists (MRTs)

MRTs with specialized clinical skills work in three different disciplines:

• Magnetic resonance imaging technologists produce diagnostic images with equipment that generates radio waves and a strong magnetic field. Extensive knowledge of anatomy, pathology and physiology allows MRI technologists to obtain images, monitor and care for the patients during scans.
• Nuclear medicine technologists prepare and administer small amounts of radioactive substances called radiopharmaceuticals, as well as other medications, to patients for diagnosis and treatments. They are a highly specialized healthcare professional who works closely with the nuclear medicine physician as a part of the interdisciplinary medical imaging team. The nuclear medicine technologist looks at how the body functions in order to help in diagnosis and treatment of a range of conditions and diseases. Nuclear medicine combines imaging, patient care, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer technology, and medicine.
• Radiological technologists produce images of the body and systems by performing medical imaging services in radiography (x-ray), angiography/interventional radiography and computed tomography (CT). They are expert in the operation of complex medical radiation equipment, while providing comprehensive, compassionate patient-centered care to each patient.

Diagnostic medical sonographer (DMS)

• Sonographers use high-frequency sound waves to display real time images of the soft tissue structures in the human body such as the abdomen, pelvis, breast, thyroid, musculature and vascular structures. They play a large role in assessing fetal development, well-being and fetal anatomy.

Education program

• We offer placement opportunities for students enrolled in MRT and MDS programs with schools that we have an affiliation agreement with.

Seeking a placement

Starting a placement

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General Hospital:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

You will be asked to confirm your immunization status as well as your TB test results during the registration process.
Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic institutions you do not need to do anything else.

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students.  You will be asked to upload your completed screen upon registration.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

All mandatory training modules must be completed prior to the first day of your rotation. You will be asked to complete all the modules during your registration process on our Nirv registration system.

Prior to first day

• Complete online registration form (Link will be emailed to you.)
• Complete all online mandatory training modules

Online registration

All students must register for their placement through the Centre for Education(see Contacts tab below). You will receive a link to our registration system upon approval of your placement.

Online mandatory training

The online mandatory training program is designed in compliance with provincial legislation and to provide you with knowledge of our programs, services and policies.

On the first day

Bring with you:

Government issued photo ID — You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office. This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time.

Payment for parking (if applicable) —  Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Contacts

Centre for Education

Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1

Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Profession

North York General Hospital (NYGH) is a leading community teaching hospital, accredited by the Association of Canadian Occupational Therapy University Programs (ACOTUP). Our vision is to lead the pursuit of excellence through learning, innovation and partnerships.

Occupational Therapy is a health profession that focuses on independence in everyday living by assisting individuals to maintain ability, develop skills, restore function and promote health.

• Occupational Therapy services at NYGH are offered in the following areas:
• Paediatrics (including the NICU)
• Medical units (inpatient)
• Geriatric programs (inpatient, outpatient and community outreach)
• Surgical Program (inpatient and outpatient plastics)
• Adult Mental Health (inpatient, outpatient and community outreach)
• Occupational Health

Education program

The following placements are offered:

• North York General Hospital is affiliated with the University of Toronto and offers Occupational Therapy placements to students from across Canada and internationally. Student placements are offered at the General site, Branson Ambulatory Care Centre, and Seniors’ Health Centre — under the supervision of dedicated preceptors. Fieldwork experience is available in a variety of programs including: paediatrics, mental health, medicine, surgery, and geriatrics.Occupational Therapy (OT) and Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) students are provided with the clinical experience of working collaboratively with patients, families and the interprofessional health care team to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
• Shadowing experiences by non-OT students

Seeking a placement

Student OT and OTA placements are arranged between fieldwork coordinators of affiliated academic institutions or the National Fieldwork Placement Service and the Collaborative Practice Leader (CPL) for Rehabilitation Sciences at North York General Hospital.

Requests for shadowing experiences by non-OT students may also be directed to the CPL, Rehabilitation Sciences.

Starting a placement

Prior to first day

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General Hospital:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

You will be asked to confirm your immunization status as well as your TB test results during the registration process.
Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic
institutions you do not need to do anything else.

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students.  You will be asked to upload your completed screen upon registration.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

All mandatory training modules must be completed prior to the first day of your rotation. You will be asked to complete all the modules during your registration process on our Nirv registration system.

On the first day

Bring with you:

Government issued photo ID —  You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office.  This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time.

Payment for parking (if applicable) — Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Contacts

Daphne Flatt, B.Sc. (OT), M.Ed., OT Reg. (Ont.),
Collaborative Practice Leader, Rehabilitation Sciences
Tel: 416-756-6667
daphne.flatt@nygh.on.ca
Centre for Education
Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805

ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Profession

North York General Hospital has both an inpatient pharmacy department and an outpatient pharmacy at the General site.

Inpatient Pharmacy

We are technologically advanced, with an electronic medical record (encompassing computerized clinician order entry/prescribing and electronic MAR), barcoding to enhance a closed loop medication management system, and evidence-based clinical decision support systems.

Pharmacy Services provides medication dispensing according to safe medication practice guidelines for all oral, intravenous (IV), and total parenteral nutrition (TPN) therapies. As well, we manufacture medications that are not readily available in required dosages for paediatric and neonatal intensive care patients. Pharmacy technicians are responsible for the preparation, manufacturing, and dispensing of the majority of oral, IV, TPN, and chemotherapy medications using a variety of technological equipment and applications. Pharmacy Technicians in certain areas are also involved in doing best possible medication histories and drug access facilitation.

In addition to verifying all medications prepared and dispensed through Pharmacy Services, pharmacists provide care to patients, in collaboration with the interprofessional team. Pharmacist’s services for the inpatient care areas includes:

• Obtaining a best possible medication history and allergy verification upon admission.
• Assessing all new medication orders to ensure appropriateness and completeness.
• Monitoring a patient’s response to therapy, potential medication-related problems or adverse effects of treatment and developing a therapeutic care plan.
• Attending patient care rounds.
• Providing drug information and medication education to health care providers.
• Providing medication counselling and education to patients and their caregivers. 

Outpatient Pharmacy

North York General’s Outpatient Pharmacy services are provided at the General site and rotations are offered there. The Outpatient Pharmacy provides prescription and over-the-counter drug services, using state-of-the-art technology such as the Beacon^® dispensing system. The outpatient pharmacy also provides drug distribution and pharmacist consultant services to Seniors Health Centre, the hospital’s long-term care facility.  Other services include consultations on medication use, individualized one-on-one pharmacist to patient medication assessment and education sessions (including MedsChecks), vaccinations, and preparation of patient compliance packaging.   

Education program

We currently offer the following placements:

• University of Toronto Pharmacy Students
  • Early Practice Experience (EPE)
  • Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE)
• University of Waterloo Pharmacy Students
  • Co-op Students (Outpatient Pharmacy)
• Pharmacy Technician Students
  • We currently work with a number of community colleges and institutions for their student placements throughout the year.

Seeking a placement

Placement process

Pharmacy Students

• EPE – Early Practice Experience (4 week rotations in May, June, July or August) — assigned by Faculty
  • Deadlines as per University of Toronto Faculty of Pharmacy
• APPE – PharmD Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience — assigned by Faculty
  • Deadlines as per University of Toronto Faculty of Pharmacy

Internship — interview process (Outpatient Pharmacy only)

• For summer internships —resumes will be accepted in February/March
• For fall internships —resumes will be accepted in May/June

For Waterloo Co-op — interview process (Outpatient Pharmacy only)

• Outpatient pharmacy will be accepting one co-op student per four-month work term
• Deadlines as per University of Waterloo School of Pharmacy

Pharmacy technician students
Placements are arranged by the teaching institutions through our Pharmacy Education Coordinators.

For further information, go to the Contacts tab below to contact the most appropriate person.

Starting a placement

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General Hospital:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

You will be asked to confirm your immunization status as well as your TB test results during the registration process.
Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic
institutions you do not need to do anything else.

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students.  You will be asked to upload your completed screen upon registration.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

All mandatory training modules must be completed prior to the first day of your rotation. You will be asked to complete all the modules during your registration process on our Nirv registration system.

Prior to first day

• Complete online registration form (Link will be emailed to you.)
• Complete all online mandatory training modules

Online registration

All students must register for their placement through the Centre for Education (see Contacts tab below). You will receive a link to our registration system upon approval of your placement.

Online mandatory training

The online mandatory training program is designed in compliance with provincial legislation and to provide you with knowledge of our programs, services and policies.

For Pharmacy students:

• Complete readings posted on student online registration system (Document Repository)
• Complete H-PILS (Health Professional’s Inventory of Learning) Survey – print out to review with preceptor
• If doing an Inpatient Direct Patient Care Rotation, also complete the following (module & links are in the online registration system):
  • Connecting Ontario, Medications Portlet module
  • Sunnybrook e*module for BPMH prior to rotation, if not yet completed

On the first day

Bring with you:

Government issued photo ID — You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office. This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre or any other NYGH location, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time.

Payment for parking (if applicable) — Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 am to 7:30 pm Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Contacts

Inpatient pharmacy students and General Inquiries on Pharmacy Student Placements
Jenny Chiu, RPh, BScPhm, PharmD, ACPR
Department of Pharmacy
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000
jenny.chiu@nygh.on.ca

Outpatient Pharmacy students
Norman Tang, RPh
Manager, Outpatient Drug Store
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000, ext 6752
norman.tang@nygh.on.ca

Pharmacy Technician students
Andrew Devereaux
Department of Pharmacy
4001 Leslie Street
North York General Hospital
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000, ext 6098
andrew.devereaux@nygh.on.ca

Centre for Education
Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Profession

Physiotherapy at North York General Hospital (NYGH) offers an interprofessional team approach to patient care. We treat a diverse population whose ages range from infants and children to the frail elderly. Physiotherapists provide assessment and treatment for patients at three sites.

The General site is a 400-bed acute care facility. Physiotherapists provide coverage in the Emergency Department, Paediatrics, Mother and Baby unit and on varied medical units which include Cardiology, Respiratory/GI, ICU, Neurology/Stroke, Acute Geriatrics and Alternate Level of Care as well as on the Mental Health unit. Coverage is also provided on surgical units which include post-op surgical procedures and orthopaedics.

Weekend cardio-respiratory coverage is provided by the inpatient physiotherapists and a weekend Mobility/Discharge Team provides coverage on the medical units by external physiotherapists. Post-knee surgery patients at the General site may be referred by their orthopaedic surgeons for outpatient knee classes run by physiotherapy staff. Patients of the Total Joint Assessment Centre are screened by physiotherapists and referred to the orthopaedic surgeons as surgical candidates or to the community for ongoing physiotherapy treatment.

The outpatient Day Hospital at the Seniors’ Health Centre requires a referral from one of our geriatric physicians. A physiotherapist is part of the team of this program. The Outreach Team that serves the community has two physiotherapists who assess and provide treatment in the patient’s home and recommend resources in the community.

Rehabilitation assistants with an educational background of physical therapy assistant and occupational therapy assistant combined are an integral part of our physiotherapy staff at the General site and at the outpatient Day Hospital at Seniors’ Health Centre.
For more information visit:

College of Physiotherapists of Ontario

Ontario Physiotherapy Association

Education program

For students enrolled in Physical Therapy we offer:

• one-day Structured Clinical placements (SCS) for year 1 students
• three-week Basic Skills placements for year 1 students and
• five-week placements for year 2 students.

We accept students from the Toronto area (University of Toronto). Placements for students from other catchment areas need to be arranged through U of T.

For students enrolled in the Rehabilitation Assistant programs, we offer:

• placements for four, five and six weeks as well as
• one-day Clinic Day sessions (four hours)

Students must be from a two-year OTA/PTA combined program from affiliated colleges.

Seeking a placement

Student placement requests need to be arranged through your academic institutions (universities or colleges) by the student clinical coordinators or fieldwork coordinators and in communication with the collaborative practice leader, rehabilitation sciences.

The academic institutions are required to have an established affiliation agreement with North York General Hospital. Please check with the student clinical placement coordinator at your academic institution to ensure a valid agreement is in place.
See the NYGH contact information on this page.

Starting a placement

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General Hospital:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

You will be asked to confirm your immunization status as well as your TB test results during the registration process.
Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic
institutions you do not need to do anything else.

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students and must be submitted to your profile in the Nirv Registration System when prompted.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

All mandatory training modules must be completed prior to the first day of your rotation. You will be asked to verify that you have completed the online modules including date of completion

Prior to first day

• Complete online registration form (Link will be emailed to you.)
• Complete all online mandatory training modules

Online registration
All students must register for their placement through the Centre for Education (see the Contacts tab below). You will receive a link to our registration system upon approval of your placement.

Online mandatory training
The online mandatory training program is designed in compliance with provincial legislation and to provide you with knowledge of our programs, services and policies.

On the first day

Bring with you:

Government issued photo ID — You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office. This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre or any other NYGH location, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time.

Payment for parking (if applicable) — Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Contacts

Daphne Flatt,B.Sc. (OT), M.Ed., OT Reg. (Ont.),
Collaborative Practice Leader, Rehabilitation Sciences
Tel: 416-756-6667
daphne.flatt@nygh.on.ca

Centre for Education

Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education
6 North – Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1

Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Profession

Psychologists at North York General Hospital provide assessment, intervention and consultation to the inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient services for children, adolescents and adults. Psychologists work in the Eating Disorder (adolescent and adult) and Child & Adolescent Mental Health Outpatient services. Psychologists at NYGH have been providing clinical training opportunities for more than 30 years.

Primary models of care:

• Cognitive behavioural
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
• Emotion Focused Therapy
• Family Based Therapy (for Eating Disorders)

The benefits of training at NYGH:

• Experienced and committed psychology staff members who are readily available for supervision and consultation
• Opportunity for exposure to a broad range of patient populations
• Educational opportunities such as Mental Health Grand Rounds
• Opportunity to work on multidisciplinary teams
• Opportunity to work with other psychology practicum students

Education program

The following placements are offered:

• Academic year practicums for PhD level Psychology students enrolled at York University, Ryerson University, University of Toronto, University of Toronto OISE, and the University of Guelph.

The number of practicum placements offered may vary year to year depending on the availability and interest of the staff. A typical practicum is 20 hours per week. Students usually work under the supervision of one psychologist, though there is flexibility with this arrangement as we have had students in the past split their time between two supervisors. The mix of assessment, intervention and consultation will vary depending on the particular supervising psychologist.

Please send your application to the person with whom you wish to work.

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services

Dr. Sandra Doyle-Lisek, C.Psych.
Phillips House
North York General Hospital
1 Buchan Court
Toronto, Ontario M2J 0B1

Tel: 416-756-6000 x8612
Sandra.Doyle-Lisek@nygh.on.ca

Additional information:

Child and Adolescent Mental Health & Day Hospital Program

• The practicum is offered for two to three days over the academic year.
• Orientation is integrative with a main focus on CBT.
• Individual, group and family therapy experiences as well as parent coaching.
• Participation in interdisciplinary team rounds

Adult Eating Disorder Program

General site applications for the academic year or summer practicum placements should be sent to:

Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Additional information:

• The program is a partial day hospital program. It runs Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3:30–8:00 p.m. During the pandemic, we are offering virtual treatment Mon., Wed., & Thurs. from 12:00-2:30pm
• There is also a separate group treatment for Binge Eating Disorder
• Assessment: Clinical interviews (Eating Disorders Examination – interview), administer, score and interpret psychological tests, write assessment reports and provide feedback to patients and the multidisciplinary health care team.
• Questionnaires assess: depressive & anxious symptoms; body dissatisfaction, body appreciation, disordered eating, self-compassion, body checking, perfectionism, & degree of clinical impairment
• Psychotherapy: Group (and opportunity for individual, if desired). Techniques include: CBT, Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Expressive Arts, Psychoeducation
• Opportunity to participate in Mental Health Grand Rounds. Broad range of patient populations.

Dr. Kirsh will accept one to two students.

Pre-doctoral Internship

NYGH participates in the Toronto Area Internship Consortium in Clinical, School and Counselling Psychology. This is a full year pre-doctoral internship in which the student will split their time between the Toronto District School Board and NYGH Child and Adolescent Mental Health services. Get more information about this internship opportunity.

Seeking a placement

Specific information regarding the different practicum placements offered by an individual psychologist can be obtained by attending the annual Toronto area Practicum Day Fair usually held in November. Alternatively, you can contact one of our psychologists (see contact information on this page). Applications for practicum positions should be sent to individual psychologists and must be received by February 1. The application package must include the following:

• A letter of intent
• CV
• Two letters of reference
• Graduate school transcript

Following receipt of your application, you will be notified directly whether or not you have been short-listed for an interview by the individual psychologist you have applied to. Final notification, usually in mid-March, will follow the procedure determined at the annual November Practicum Day Fair.

Starting a placement

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General Hospital:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

If you are a student in a graduate program and have not provided your institution with documentation regarding immunizations, you must bring this with you on or prior to your first day of placement.

You will be asked to confirm your immunization status as well as your TB test results during the registration process.
Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic
institutions you do not need to do anything else.

Private workplace insurance
This applies to the following:

• Out of province students
• Students from private institutions
• Students in a practicum placement following completion of their academic studies

Bring certificate of coverage on Day 1

Not applicable

• Observers
• Students paid by NYGH

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students and must be submitted to your academic institution. If you have not provided the completed screen to your academic institution, you must bring it in on Day 1 of your placement.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

All mandatory training modules must be completed prior to the first day of your rotation. You will be asked to verify that you have completed the online modules including date of completion as part of your registration process. The modules are also available on the registration pages.

Prior to the first day

• Complete online registration form (Link will be emailed to you.)
• Complete all online mandatory training modules

Online registration
All students must register for their placement through the Centre for Education (see Contacts tab below). You will receive a link to our registration system upon approval of your placement.

Online mandatory training
The online mandatory training program is designed in compliance with provincial legislation and to provide you with knowledge of our programs, services and policies.

On the first day

Bring with you

Government issued photo ID — You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office. This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre or any other NYGH location, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time.

Payment for parking (if applicable) — Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Contacts

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services

Dr. Sandra Doyle-Lisek, C.Psych.
Phillips House
Tel: 416-756-6000 x8612
Sandra.Doyle-Lisek@nygh.on.ca

Adult Eating Disorder Program

Dr. Gillian Kirsh, C.Psych
8th floor, Adult Eating Disorder Program
Tel: 416-756-6000 x3168
gillian.kirsh@nygh.on.ca

Centre for Education

Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Profession

Recreational Therapy utilizes participation in recreation and leisure activities as well as leisure education to optimize quality of life, maximize independence, and promote physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and spiritual health and wellbeing. Recreational Therapists are responsible for assessing clients’ current interests, abilities, needs, and barriers related to a meaningful leisure lifestyle. Based on assessment results, Recreational Therapists engage clients in 1:1 or group therapy interventions.

Examples of recreational therapy interventions delivered across NYGH include:

• Exercise-based programs such as seated exercise/yoga
• Social engagement programs such as Bingo, special events
• Music-based interventions such as sing-alongs or music appreciation
• Cognitive therapy programs such as brain aerobics, trivia, etc
• Creative expression such as art appreciation
• Educational Programs such as Culinary Art and Nutrition program
• 1:1 interventions (ie. Montessori Activities)

Please note: Recreational Therapy programs will vary based on the unit to match the need of patient population.

Education program

Recreational Therapy internships are available on a part-time and full-time basis. Typically, the recreational therapist intern will help assess clients, facilitate 1:1 and group therapy programs, complete documentation, provide leisure education counselling, and create opportunities for recreation and leisure skill development. 
The internships are available in the following areas:

• Out-Patient Geriatric Day Hospital/Specialized Geriatrics Services (243 Consumer’s Road, Suite 300) 
• Reactivation Care Centre (Finch Site) 
• In-Patient Geriatric Medicine Program (General Site)
• In-Patient Adult/Geriatric Mental Health (General Site)
• Out-Patient Mental Health Day Hospital (General Site)

Seeking a placement

• Students seeking placement opportunities in Recreational Therapy must have a diploma or degree in recreation/leisure studies from a community college or university program.  Students must be enrolled in a post graduate Recreation Therapy Certificate Program or Recreational Therapy Honors Degree Program.

Student Expectations

• Assess recreational and leisure needs, strengths, challenges and interests of patients to assist them in meeting their leisure goals. 
• Maintain confidentiality and safety of clients, self and others in compliance with all applicable regulations and standards of practice. 
• Plan, implement and evaluate holistic individual and group recreation therapy programs which reflect patient population needs
• Provide clients with therapeutic functional intervention, leisure education, and opportunity for recreation participation. 
• Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with professional standards of practice and organizational policies and procedures. 
• Collaborate with clients, inter-professional teams, volunteers and community service providers to safely and effectively facilitate therapeutic recreation services that enhances or maintains an individual’s well-being. 
• To be compassionate, caring and kind to patients, family members and support networks. 
• To be reliable, dependable and arrive on time. 

To dress professionally in the workplace and appropriately when facilitating specific programs.

For more information or to request a placement contact:

Ann Bickram, Education Coordinator

Ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Starting a placement

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General Hospital:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

If you are a student in a graduate program and have not provided your institution with documentation regarding immunizations, you must bring this with you on or prior to your first day of placement.

You will be asked to confirm your immunization status as well as your TB test results during the registration process.
Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic
institutions you do not need to do anything else.

Private workplace insurance
This applies to the following:

• Out of province students
• Students from private institutions
• Students in a practicum placement following completion of their academic studies

Bring certificate of coverage on Day 1

Not applicable

• Observers
• Students paid by NYGH

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students and must be submitted to your academic institution. If you have not provided the completed screen to your academic institution, you must bring it in on Day 1 of your placement.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

All mandatory training modules must be completed prior to the first day of your rotation. You will be asked to verify that you have completed the online modules including date of completion as part of your registration process. The modules are also available on the registration pages.

Prior to the first day

• Complete online registration form (Link will be emailed to you.)
• Complete all online mandatory training modules

Online registration

All students must register for their placement through the Centre for Education(see Contacts tab below). You will receive a link to our registration system upon approval of your placement.

Online mandatory training

The online mandatory training program is designed in compliance with provincial legislation and to provide you with knowledge of our programs, services and policies.

On the first day

Bring with you

Government issued photo ID — You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office. This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre or any other NYGH location, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time.

Payment for parking (if applicable) — Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Contacts

Centre for Education

Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational

Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Profession

Registered respiratory therapists (RRTs) are highly skilled regulated health care professionals who strive to provide patient- and family-centered care to all patient populations, from newborns to the elderly. Registered respiratory therapists or “RTs” are an integral part of interprofessional teams and participate in implementing evidence-based practice and evaluating respiratory care.

RRTs at North York General Hospital provide expertise in airway management, acute respiratory failure, mechanical ventilation, high risk deliveries, general respiratory assessment, and diagnostic procedures. In addition, the RTs are essential members of the Critical Care Response Team and the Code Blue and Pink teams.

The Respiratory Therapy Department is a 24-hour/7 day a week inpatient service. Respiratory services are provided to all areas of the hospital including the Emergency Department, Critical Care Unit, Labour and Delivery, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and medical and surgical inpatient units.

Anesthesia assistants at NYGH are RRTs with advanced training working collaboratively as part of the anesthesia care team. Anesthesia assistants provide care to surgical patients during general, regional, or procedural sedation under the supervision of and immediate availability of the anesthesiologist.

Education program

Respiratory Therapy Program

The program is affiliated with the Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences and is accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Respiratory Therapy Education. This comprehensive program encompasses interprofessional education outlining professional competencies to better prepare students in acquiring the skills necessary to perform according to their scope of practice as well as effectively in health care teams. Students will have the opportunity to participate in North York General Hospital’s Interprofessional Education Structured Workshops.

Students will have the opportunity to learn within interprofessional teams providing respiratory care within a variety of practice settings including the Critical Care Unit, Emergency Department, Critical Care Response Team, inpatient units, Surgery, pulmonary function lab, and with the Michener’s external partners in neonatal and paediatric care.

At NYGH, students are provided with the clinical experience required for the adoption of professional standards, attitudes and behaviours in addition to preparation for the national credentialing examination of the Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists (CSRT) and provincial licensure with the College of Respiratory Therapists of Ontario (CRTO). Evaluation emphasis will be placed on health and safety, professionalism, communication, teamwork, analysis and problem solving, and performance of clinical competencies.

Anesthesia Assistant Graduate Certificate Program

Placements for the clinical practicum portion are offered which comprise of a 12-week placement to be completed within a six-month consecutive time frame. NYGH is also an external partner for the two-week elective rotation required for completion of the program.

Seeking a placement

The Respiratory Therapy Program is a full-time, entry to practice advanced diploma program which is completed over seven semesters spanning three years. In semester 6 and 7, students undergo their clinical placement which is assigned through the Michener’s Office for Clinical Education. The 32-week clinical education component is coordinated through the Professional Practice Leader (PPL) for Respiratory Therapy. Students will be scheduled within specific rotations at the General site.

Students will receive a one-week clinical orientation before the start of the clinical schedule which starts every August. Students will work closely under the supervision of RRTs and have the opportunity to integrate knowledge and skills into practice during the clinical phase of their program. Please contact the Michener Institute for further information.

The Anesthesia Assistant Graduate Certificate program is a three-semester program. A prerequisite for clinical placement at NYGH includes a letter from the Chief of Anesthesia indicating support for clinical education prior to starting the program. Student placement for the two-week elective rotation will be assigned by the Michener Institute.

For more information contact Darlene Baldaro, Professional Practice Leader for Respiratory Therapy.

Starting a placement

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General Hospital:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

If you are a student in a graduate program and have not provided your institution with documentation regarding immunizations, you must bring this with you on or prior to your first day of placement.

You will be asked to confirm your immunization status as well as your TB test results during the registration process.
Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic
institutions you do not need to do anything else.

Private workplace insurance
This applies to the following:

• Out of province students
• Students from private institutions
• Students in a practicum placement following completion of their academic studies

Bring certificate of coverage on Day 1

Not applicable

• Observers
• Students paid by NYGH

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students and must be submitted to your academic institution. If you have not provided the completed screen to your academic institution, you must bring it in on Day 1 of your placement.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

The online mandatory training program is designed to provide you with knowledge of our programs, services and policies and to provide you with information required for your placement. An email will be sent by the PPL/Clinical Coordinator to the Respiratory Therapy students with information about profession specific orientation.

Prior to the first day

• Complete online registration form (Link will be emailed to you.)
• Complete all online mandatory training
• Review the Student Orientation package which will be emailed to you prior to arrival.

Online registration
All students must register for their placement through the Centre for Education (see Contacts tab below). You will receive a link to our registration system upon approval of your placement.

Online mandatory training
The online mandatory training program is designed  in compliance with provincial legislation and to provide you with knowledge of our programs, services and policies. An email will be sent by the PPL/Clinical Coordinator to the Respiratory Therapy students with information about profession specific orientation.

On the first day

Bring with you

Government issued photo ID — You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office. This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre or any other NYGH location, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time.

Payment for parking (if applicable) — Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Contacts

Irene Choi RRT, BSc
Professional Practice Leader for Respiratory Therapy, Clinical Respiratory Educator,
Clinical Coordinator for The Michener Institute of Education at UHN
Location: 6N-610
Phone: 416-756-6335
Mobile: 416-200-9629
Irene.choi@nygh.on.ca

Centre for Education

Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Profession

At North York General Hospital (NYGH) we believe total patient care must emphasize the physical, emotional and social needs of each patient and family. Approximately 50 social workers at North York General Hospital provide clinical services in all our major programs and across the continuum of health care (acute to chronic, inpatient to outpatient), and the continuum of life (newborn to end of life).

Social workers are members of interdisciplinary teams across six of our sites (General, Champagne Dr., Consumers Rd., Reactivation Care Centre and Phillips House) and serve children, adolescents, adults and families. They perform a wide range of functions at NYGH from psychosocial support, counseling, and instrumental material support, to management services, and academic research. The hospital is organized in a program management model and social workers are affiliated with specific patient programs where they provide specialized expertise in psychosocial interventions that are an essential component of the overall plan of care for patients.

The role of social workers at NYGH

• Clinical services consisting of psychosocial assessments, counseling, advocacy, and links to hospital and community resources.
• Participation in research and teaching initiatives within their programs and in partnership with academic institutions.
• Clinical and academic education placements to Master of Social Work students from the University of Toronto (FIFSW) and other accredited Canadian and international schools of social work.

All social workers at NYGH are trained at the Master’s level from an accredited university and are registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. Every social worker is assigned to a hospital program and/or department.

The following is a general list of programs: Alternate Level of Care (ALC) Unit, Adult Eating Disorders, Palliative Care, Surgery, Child & Adolescent Outpatient Mental Health, Psychiatry Day Hospital, Medicine, Seniors’ Health Centre, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Inpatient, Mental Health and Justice Treatment Support Service, Adult Mental Health Inpatient Psychiatry, Seniors’ Health Centre Day Hospital and Memory Clinic, Diabetes Education Centre, Transitional-Aged Youth Substance Use Program, Child & Adolescent Eating Disorder Program, Maternal Newborn Program, Teletriageand Memory Clinic, Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACTT), Cancer Care, Emergency, Orthopedic Surgery and Pre-Op, Adult Psychiatry Inpatient, Geriatrics, Child and Adolescent Ambulatory Health, Child and Adolescent Ambulatory Health Service, Neuro Stroke, Complex Care Diabetes Centre, Telemetry & Cardiac Care, Critical Care Unit (CrCu), Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Child Development & Counseling Unit, Geriatric Psychiatry, Family Medicine, Adult Addiction & Transitional-Aged Youth Substance Use Program

Regulatory body information

The social work profession in Ontario is regulated by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. This body provides regulation standards for practicing social work. The Ontario Association of Social Workers is the provincial professional association; the Canadian Association of Social Workers is the national professional association. These websites provide information on practice as well as courses and conferences offered:
Ontario College of Social Workers & Social Service Workers
Ontario Association of Social Workers
Canadian Association of Social Workers

Education program

North York General Hospital has a coveted interdisciplinary field education program that is highly sought after and accepts approximately 12 to 15 students per year. The social work team provides clinical and academic placements to social work students at the University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work and other accredited universities.

Each year, the social work service offers a variety of placement opportunities, depending on the availability of instructors for that term. Students are matched according to their university’s particular matching process, which typically involves the student being interviewed by the potential instructor/s.

We offer a range of placement models including: one student to one instructor for the entirety of the placement, one student to two instructors throughout the placement (usually within similar areas in the hospital), a rotational model whereby the student rotates through two or three instructors, in discrete blocks (usually in related areas in the hospital), or one rotation with one instructor within North York General, with the second rotation pre-arranged at another teaching hospital with another instructor (in an area that compliments the first rotation).

Seeking a placement

Field placements

North York General accepts MSW students only. Students are placed in both clinical and research settings. All requests for field placements must be processed through respective universities. Direct requests will not be processed.

Length of placement depends on the particular university that the student is attending. Typically MSW year two students from the University of Ontario FIFSW are in placement from September through April (Wednesday–Friday), and MSW year one students are in placement from January through May (Wednesday–Friday from January to April and Tuesday–Friday from April to May). The Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work sets the requirements for the minimum numbers of hours in practicum. MSW students are typically in placement from September–May; however we do occasionally have students in a block placement through the summer.

Student expectations

• Students are expected to work with children, adults and families around psychosocial, emotional, financial, familial, and academic issues related to physical, mental, and/or psychiatric concerns.
• Students are expected to complete a learning contract in conjunction with their field instructor within the first month of placement.
• All students will receive a minimum of one to one and a half hours of direct supervision/instruction on a weekly basis from their respective field instructors.
• Students are expected to attend the series of seminars designed to complement their learning and to cover core areas related to practice.
• Students must be prepared to work in a fast-paced environment with emotionally charged cases. Social work in a hospital setting can be extremely demanding, draining, and time-consuming (beyond the standard placement hours).
• Students should be prepared to work clinically, within institutional structures, and with various government and community organizations.
• Students are expected to learn the medical aspects of their program and collaborate on multidisciplinary teams.
• Students must prepare to be flexible in dealing with unknown situations and sudden schedule changes. It is important that students build personal/professional boundaries and develop tools for personal self-care.
• Students are expected to take advantage of the numerous learning and practice opportunities available throughout the hospital.
• Students are assessed according to the process and tools specific to their learning institution. Social work students from the University of Toronto FIFSW are assessed using the online evaluation tool developed by the FIFSW, referred to as the practice-based evaluation tool (PBE). This process involves a midterm and final evaluation, completed independently by both instructor and student. The evaluation tool is available on the university’s online practicum administration system (PAS), to which each student and filed instructor has access. The education practice leader/education coordinator is required to review and sign off on all evaluations.
• At the conclusion of placement students are expected to participate in an evaluation of placement.
• Students are also expected to complete any hospital-wide evaluations regarding placement.

Starting a placement

Prior to the first day

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General Hospital:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic
institutions you do not need to do anything else.

Private workplace insurance
This applies to the following:

• Out of province students
• Students from private institutions
• Students in a practicum placement following completion of their academic studies

Bring certificate of coverage on Day 1

Not applicable

• Observers
• Students paid by NYGH

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students and must be uploaded during the registration process on Nirv.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

All mandatory training modules must be completed prior to the first day of your rotation. You will be asked to verify that you have completed the online modules including date of completion.

On the first day

Bring with you:

Government issued photo ID — You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office.  This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre or another NYGH location, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time. You will be required to leave a $20 deposit in order for you to receive your badge.  The deposit will be given back to you return your ID badge to the security office upon completion of your placement.

Payment for parking (if applicable) — Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Contacts

Centre for Education

Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational

Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street, 6N-632
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel:416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Jennifer Burt-Yanoff (she/her)
BSW, MSW, RSW
Professional Practice Leader, Social Work
Adjunct Lecturer, Factor Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto

Tel: 416-756-6357
Cell: 416-571-4952
jennifer.burt-yanoff@nygh.on.ca

Profession

Speech-Language Pathology — Inpatient

Speech-language pathologists are regulated health care professionals who identify, assess and treat adult inpatients presenting with swallowing, speech, language, and cognitive-communication and voice disorders.

Speech-language pathologists work as part of a multidisciplinary team to manage referrals and caseload, ensuring efficient service delivery and discharge planning. Our team of four speech-language pathologists provides services to all inpatient medical and surgical programs. The speech-language pathologists are also part of the SATT (Stroke Assessment Treatment Team). This interdisciplinary team is available seven days per week and provides rapid assessment and treatment for acute stroke patients according to best practice stroke care guidelines.

Useful links

College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario
Canadian Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists
The Ontario Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists
University of Toronto – Speech-Language Pathology

Education program

We accept students who are currently enrolled in speech-language pathology programs, communicative disorders assistant programs, and early childhood consultant programs. Students gain experience working with all three professions.

Inpatient

North York General Hospital (NYGH) provides speech-language pathology students with the clinical experience of working collaboratively with patients, families and the interprofessional health care team to provide the highest standards of care and an outstanding patient and family experience. Fieldwork experience at the General site is available across all adult inpatient programs including Medicine and Elder Care, Surgery, Cancer Care and Mental Health.

Seeking a placement

North York General Hospital is affiliated with the University of Toronto and accepts students who are currently enrolled in speech-language pathology graduate programs. Prior to being accepted for a student placement your university or college must have an affiliation agreement in place with North York General Hospital.

Student SLP placements are arranged between the coordinator of clinical education from the affiliated academic institution, the clinical educator(s) and the acting Professional Practice Leader (PPL) for Speech-Language Pathology at NYGH.

Starting a placement

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General Hospital:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit Testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

If you are a student in a graduate program and have not provided your institution with documentation regarding immunizations, you must bring this with you on or prior to your first day of placement.

You will be asked to confirm your immunization status as well as your TB test results during the registration process.
Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic
institutions you do not need to do anything else.

Private workplace insurance
This applies to the following:

• Out of province students
• Students from private institutions
• Students in a practicum placement following completion of their academic studies

Bring certificate of coverage on Day 1

Not applicable

• Observers
• Students paid by NYGH

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students and must be submitted to your academic institution. If you have not provided the completed screen to your academic institution, you must bring it in on Day 1 of your placement.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

All mandatory training modules must be completed prior to the first day of your rotation. You will be asked to verify that you have completed the online modules including date of completion as part of your registration process. The modules are also available on the registration pages.

Prior to the first day

• Complete online registration form (Link will be emailed to you.)
• Complete all online mandatory training modules.

Online registration
All students must register for their placement through the Centre for Education (see Contacts).  You will receive a link to our registration system upon approval of your placement.

Online mandatory training
The online mandatory training program is designed in compliance with provincial legislation and to provide you with knowledge of our programs, services and policies.

On the first day

Bring with you:

Government issued photo ID — You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office.  This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre or another NYGH location, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time. You will be required to leave a $20 deposit in order for you to receive your badge.  The deposit will be given back to you return your ID badge to the security office upon completion of your placement.

Payment for parking (if applicable) — Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Other information

Orientation to North York General Hospital is provided by the clinical educator(s). Students will receive training on the electronic documentation system prior to receiving their username and password. Dress code is business casual. Students are required to wear the official name tag of their academic institute until issued an NYGH identity badge. Students are required to complete and submit a Student Consent for Retention of Evaluation Documents form (it will be given to you on Day 1).

Contacts

Margit Labas-Weber, MA Reg. CASLPO
Speech-Language Pathologist
Tel: 416-756-6361
margitlabas-weber@nygh.on.ca

Daphne Flatt, B.Sc. (OT), M.Ed., OT Reg. (Ont.)
Collaborative Practice Leader, Rehabilitation Sciences
Tel: 416-756-6667
daphne.flatt@nygh.on.ca

Centre for Education

Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto, ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca

Profession

The Spiritual and Religious Care Department helps patients and their loved ones access their unique inner strengths to achieve inner peace, discover meaning and purpose, and to find healing and hope, especially during times of grief and when fear or uncertainty seems overwhelming.

Our services

Spiritual well-being is a component of good health, and is a necessity in the health care setting. Our team meets with the Spiritual and Religious Care Advisory Committee to ensure we offer the best services to patients and their families of various faith traditions. We offer 24/7 on-call services.

Our services include:

• prayer
• worship services including memorial services
• special religious holiday services
• baby blessings
• a fetal burial program
• religious objects and scriptures
• meditation
• spiritual art practices
• holistic energy practices
• spiritual direction
• links to faith traditions in the community
• bedside visiting by regular volunteer spiritual care visitors
• Sunday Christian worship
• hymn singing and spirituality themed groups during the week and a Communion service twice a month, at our Seniors’ Health Centre

Education program

We offer:

• Field placements
• Contextual theology placements
• Internships
• Clinical placement for Canadian Association of Spiritual Care certification

Seeking a placement

Contact Spiritual & Religious Care to inquire regarding a placement or speak to your professor. Dates for starting are flexible.

Starting a placement

Placement prerequisites

The following prerequisites are required in order for a student to start a placement at North York General Hospital:

COVID-19 Vaccination

NYGH’s COVID-19 Immunization Policy requires every learner, physician, staff and volunteer to be fully vaccinated (2 weeks post second dose) except for those who have an approved medical or Ontario Human Rights Code exemption.  Proof of vaccination or exemption must be documented at the school.

Approved school exemptions must be submitted to NYGH for review & approval prior to commencing with a placement/rotation.  If you have an approved school exemption, contact cfe@nygh.on.ca or 416-756-6929 to inquire about our process for review and potential approval.  Please note this process may take several days. 

Mask fit testing

You must have completed mask fit testing within the past 24 months. The following information will be requested upon registration:

• Date mask fitted
• Location mask fitted
• Size/Model

Immunizations

Your immunizations need to be up to date. This includes a TB test within the past 12 months. The hospital is not responsible for any expenses relating to immunization requirements. Students will not be allowed to start a placement without proper documentation. Seasonal influenza immunizations are highly recommended. Your rotation or placement may be affected if this is missing.

If you are a student in a graduate program and have not provided your institution with documentation regarding immunizations, you must bring this with you on or prior to your first day of placement.

You will be asked to confirm your immunization status as well as your TB test results during the registration process.
Immunization form

Workplace insurance

Institutional Workplace Insurance Agreement
The students from publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities are covered for workplace injuries through a program from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. If you are from one of these academic institutions you do not need to do anything else.

Private workplace insurance
This applies to the following:

• Out of province students
• Students from private institutions
• Students in a practicum placement following completion of their academic studies

Bring certificate of coverage on Day 1

Not applicable

• Observers
• Students paid by NYGH

Vulnerable sector screen

Vulnerable sector screen must be completed within the past 12 months for all students and must be submitted to your academic institution. If you have not provided the completed screen to your academic institution, you must bring it in on Day 1 of your placement.

If your screen has positive findings, please notify us before your placement, as conditions of your placement will need to be reviewed.

Mandatory training

All mandatory training modules must be completed prior to the first day of your rotation. You will be asked to verify that you have completed the online modules including date of completion as part of your registration process. The modules are also available on the registration pages.

Prior to the first day

• Complete online registration form (link will be emailed to you).
• Complete all online mandatory training modules

Online registration
All students must register for their placement through the Centre for Education (See Contacts). You will receive a link to our registration system upon approval of your placement.

Online mandatory training
The online mandatory training program is designed in compliance with provincial legislation and to provide you with knowledge of our programs, services and policies.

On the first day

Bring with you:

Government issued photo ID — You will need to leave a $20 deposit payable via MasterCard, Visa or American Express in order to receive your ID badge. This will be refunded to you upon return of your badge to the badge ID office.  This is required in order for you to receive a hospital ID. The Badge Office is located at the General site on the east wing, ground floor besides shipping. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. If you are a student at the Branson Ambulatory Care Centre or another NYGH location, you may want to receive your badge a couple of days earlier to not affect your placement time. You will be required to leave a $20 deposit in order for you to receive your badge.  The deposit will be given back to you return your ID badge to the security office upon completion of your placement.

Payment for parking (if applicable) — Monthly costs of $85 (debit or credit card accepted). Daily rates are also available by contacting the parking office. Parking at the hospital is available in the Staff Parking Lot. Please park in Visitors Parking on your first day, once you pay for your monthly pass, your parking ticket for that day will be validated. The Parking Office is located at the parking deck, ground level, adjacent to the exit gates. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Contacts

Spiritual & Religious Care
Tel: 416-756-6311
or
Philip Weaver
Clinical Pastoral Supervisor
Spiritual and Religious Care
Tel: 416-756-6312
Fax: 416-756-6514
philip.weaver@nygh.on.ca

Centre for Education

Ann Bickram
Education Coordinator, Nursing, Health Professions, Administrative & Operational
Centre for Education, 6 North–Room 630
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto ON M2K 1E1
Tel: 416-756-6000 x4805
ann.bickram@nygh.on.ca