Innovative Clinic Set to Launch

In October 2010, Ontario’s first university-based, interprofessional, student-run health clinic will open its doors. Jolene McNeil and Naureen Siddiqui – students in HPME’s MHSc Health Administration program – have been pivotal in the development of its organizational structure and operational model.

The aim of IMAGINE – Interprofessional Medical and Allied Groups for Improving Neighbourhood Environments – is to foster partnerships between students in health-care professions and marginalized populations. The organization currently runs several health-promotion programs at shelters and drop-in centres in downtown Toronto. In October, IMAGINE will begin providing free health-care services to patients at a weekly walk-in clinic operating out of the Central Toronto Community Health Centre–Queen West Site.

"IMAGINE created a self-sustaining model of program development, financial independence, and student governance," Siddiqui says. "It’s a model that students, academics, and governments can use when establishing community programs."

In addition to the time and managerial expertise of HPME students, this initiative has relied on the advice and mentorship of various HPME staff and faculty members, including Tina Smith and Dr Jan Barnsely. Initiated in 2007 by a group of medical students, IMAGINE now has representation from most of the University of Toronto’s health faculties.

Learn more about IMAGINE online.