Step into the vibrant tapestry of Scarborough, home to more than 25% of Toronto's population. Despite serving a vast swathe of the city's residents, Scarborough's hospitals have faced a historic struggle getting their fair share of funds, setting the stage for a much-needed rallying cry.
In 2023, Scarborough's emergency rooms pulled off a staggering feat, operating at a jaw-dropping 200% capacity — a testament to the determination of their healthcare providers. Imagine more than 176,000 patients cared for in emergency rooms built for half of that, and over 18,000 surgeries performed in the oldest operating rooms in Ontario.
Yet, within the aging walls of Scarborough's hospitals, the staff don't bat an eye. Instead of folding under pressure, they turned challenges into catalysts for progress, showcasing that Scarborough grit Torontonians can't help but admire.
SHN staff have risen to the challenge posed by limited resources. Courtesy of Scarborough Health Network
Dr. Mayoorendra Ravichandiran, known in the community as Dr. Mayo, is an Associate Medical Director and Emergency Physician who has worked at SHN for seven years. He told Narcity that working over capacity isn't even the most challenging part of being an ER doctor in Scarborough.
"I feel the biggest challenge is knowing we can do more," he said. "All of us come into work to provide the best care we can despite the limitations and challenges. However, I know that with more resources and support, we can do a lot more for the community."
Dr. Ravichandiran says he and his colleagues are proud to keep the bar high when it comes to helping patients despite the challenges.
"When we’re this far over capacity, we have to be creative in how we use the space and resources we have and it all comes down to the personnel working in the department. We rely on each other quite a bit to ensure that the patients get the best care possible. It can be challenging at times, but I enjoy what I do!"
How did it get like this?
Scarborough's General Hospital is one of three that will benefit from upgrades. Courtesy of Scarborough Health Network
All Ontario hospitals rely on donations to fund 100% of all new medical equipment and must raise 10% of the cost of infrastructure upgrades. Once that's been achieved, Ontario Health kicks in the other 90%.
Scarborough's hospitals care for a population that includes some of Toronto's most vulnerable residents — 59% new Canadians, 74% visible minorities, and some with the city's lowest household income.
This situation leaves SHN between a rock and a hard place: The people who need them most cannot always donate to the hospitals, and they go overlooked by the rest of Toronto's population despite their massive role in helping the community.
About 'Love, Scarborough'
The 'Love, Scarborough' campaign has had great success bringing the community together. Courtesy of Scarborough Health Network
Enter Scarborough Health Network Foundation, which works hard to highlight the need for donations for their three hospitals — Birchmount, Centenary, and General — all through the Love, Scarborough campaign.
Currently, the campaign is helping SHN raise money for critical upgrades, including improved diagnostic imaging and cardiac care, centralizing mental health services and building Canada's first no-wait emergency department.
And this is where you come in.
How can you help?
Dr. Mayoorendra Ravichandiran.Courtesy of Scarborough Health Network
"The best way to help SHN is by supporting the Love, Scarborough campaign in whatever way you can!" Dr. Ravichandiran told Narcity. "Whether it's by attending events like Zoo Day with your family or by donating directly to the foundation, the community’s support has meant a lot to us."
To help ease the pressure on Scarborough hospitals, you can donate directly to Love, Scarborough through their donation page. You can also find more ways to support the SHN on their website.
With enough donations, Scarborough can create the modern hospitals they deserve, matching the exceptional level of care their healthcare workers provide every day.
You can learn more about Love, Scarborough and donate directly to Scarborough hospitals through the Scarborough Health Network Foundation website. You can also follow SHN on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and LinkedIn.