“Our quality improvement indicators are built around the reduction of these specific adverse events. We track and report on pressure ulcers, delirium, and falls at all levels of our organization—from the front line to the board room.

“This is the unwavering commitment our teams bring to serving our community. We are focused on quality improvements that enable us to deliver the best care for Scarborough’s unique and diverse patient population.”

One example is SHN’s strategy to improve detection of pressure injuries in patients with darker skin, where the stages of this kind of tissue damage can appear differently than in lighter skin. SHN has adopted the more inclusive Monk Skin Tone scale and National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel staging for Darkly Pigmented Skin, put in place rigorous training materials and modules, and established an expert group of “wound champions” who provide staff with ongoing bedside practical learning. SHN is also piloting new sub-epidermal moisture scanners that can detect pressure ulcers before they become visible, which allows healthcare teams to prevent pressure injuries earlier, regardless of skin tone.

Another way that SHN is optimizing innovation is through its Epic clinical information system and the integration of barcode medication administration (BCMA) scanning—which is the process of using barcode technology to ensure that the right patient receives the right medication at the right dose, at the right time and via the right route. Because of its precision and automatic documentation into Epic, BCMA scanning significantly reduces medication errors and adverse drug events. From 2022 to 2025, BCMA inpatient scanning at SHN increased by 24 per cent, with a 96 per cent compliance rate reported as of September 2025. Through Epic, SHN has also become the only hospital in Canada to successfully launch patient self-scheduling through MyChart—giving patients greater control and convenience in managing their care.

Recognized for national leadership in quality improvement

SHN’s commitment to smarter, safer care has also been recognized nationally. This summer, the organization achieved Quality Improvement Status as a Choosing Wisely Canada Hospital, demonstrating leadership in reducing unnecessary tests and treatments. In addition, SHN is the third organization in Canada to be recognized as an Age-Friendly Health System by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, reflecting a system-wide focus on compassionate, inclusive care for older adults. In 2024, SHN also became the only community-based teaching hospital in the GTA to achieve Stage 6 of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society’s Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model, recognizing its advanced use of Epic to improve safety and the patient experience.

SHN’s results are proof that a focused, data-informed approach can lead to measurable improvements in care and outcomes. The organization is continuing to build on this foundation, translating momentum into a sustainable model for excellence. The latest CIHI Hospital Harm Project is clear evidence of that progress—demonstrating how SHN’s strategic focus and commitment to quality have delivered real, measurable gains for patients across Scarborough and positioned SHN among the top-performing and most trusted community health leaders in the GTA.

“These results show what’s possible when a health network aligns purpose, data, and action,” said Glyn.

“Our teams have shown extraordinary dedication to delivering the safest, highest-quality care for our patients—and this recognition from CIHI is a testament to that commitment.”