Integration of and Innovation in Child Health Systems: The Promise and Perils of Joined-Up Governance

Due to its federated nature, Canada does not have a national structure for the governance of child health or health care. Joined up governance (or a ‘whole of government’ approach) has been touted as an important tool in tackling “wicked” problems in children’s health and healthcare, which involves multiple ministries responsible for health, social services, and the social determinants of health. 

Integrating child health systems and services is such a wicked problem because, many services, for children with medical complexity, for example, are delivered through various healthcare “systems” (hospital, home care, respite, other community-based care) and other systems (e.g., social services, education, justice, finance, Indigenous affairs).

Join Children’s Healthcare Canada and special guest, Dr. Eyal Cohen, in a discussion about Joined up governance. He explains how it works, why it is important, and how its structure could positively impact the lives of all children, including those with medical complexities.