April 2026

Connecting More Residents to Care

The past few years have been very exciting for Univi Health Centre and the communities it serves!

 

In recent years, the Ministry of Health gave Univi more funding to help people get primary health care in the Sudbury-East area. Because of this, Univi hired more staff and can now care for more patients.

 

Since 2021, Univi has taken in almost 1,900 new patients. At the same time, Univi has added more community health programs, improved its service and quality improvement initiatives, and helped people find the care they need with system navigation support. Together, these changes have helped make Sudbury-East healthier.

 

Nicolle Plante-Dupuis, Executive Director of Univi Health Centre, said that “the Univi team has reviewed the government’s Health Care Connect wait list for our area, and we are proud to have removed many residents from that lengthy list by connecting them with a primary care provider here at Univi.”

 

As Univi grows, it also needs to improve its buildings. Univi updated and expanded its sites in Noëlville, Warren, and St-Charles so it can see more patients. With more staff and space, the Warren and St-Charles sites will be open five days a week starting May 1.

 

This growth means many people now have a regular care team close to home instead of traveling far for help.

 

These changes will help Univi meet the health needs of Sudbury-East communities in the future. “I’m looking forward to what lies ahead for health care in Sudbury-East,” says Plante-Dupuis, adding, “and I know Univi will play a part in that exciting future.”

Wired to Win: A Fun and Energetic Day at Univi

Each year, International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate women and strong communities. At Univi Health Centre, this event brings women from across Sudbury-East together for a day of connection, learning, and fun.

 

What started as a small group of 38 people has grown into a lively yearly event. This year, 232 people came to St. Charles from places like Warren, Alban, Noëlville, Markstay, Sudbury, and Ottawa. People of all ages attend, including high school students who come by school bus and long-time community members, including a 94-year-old who has come every year.

 

This year’s theme, “Wired to Win,” made the event interactive and full of energy. Participants joined live activities using technology, like voting in real time and playing games that encouraged friendly competition and creativity. People guessed sounds and performed for the crowd, creating a fun space where everyone could join in. The result was a fun and engaging day that helped people feel confident, connect with others, and try new things.

 

The goal has always been simple: make it meaningful, welcoming, and fun.

 

“This day wouldn’t be possible without the community,” says Joanne Violette, Coordinator of Community Health Programs at Univi. “Their interest and enthusiasm are what drive us to keep offering something meaningful each year.”

 

The event also shows the many programs and services available in the community. Community partners are there to share information, answer questions, and help people find local support. Local groups and sponsors help make sure everyone can take part in the day.

 

“The fact that everything is free allows any woman who wants to attend to come celebrate together”, says longtime participant, Suzanne Dubois. “We see our daughters and granddaughters now knowing that ‘the sky is the limit.’”

 

Behind the scenes, a small team works hard to organize the event, with help from Univi staff and community partners. Even with many details to manage, the day runs smoothly thanks to the energy and participation of everyone there.

 

As it grows each year, Univi’s International Women’s Day event shows what people can do when they come together to celebrate each other.

Living with COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, is a long-term lung disease that makes it harder to breathe over time. It includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and often develops slowly, so people may not notice symptoms at first. Common signs include shortness of breath, a long-lasting cough, wheezing, and extra mucus. COPD affects more than 2 million Canadians, and each person may experience it differently. It is estimated that up to one million more people may have COPD and not know it.

 

Smoking is the main cause of COPD, but long-term exposure to second-hand smoke, air pollution, and dust or chemicals at work can also increase the risk. There is no cure for COPD, but early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

 

Managing COPD may include quitting smoking, using medications or inhalers, staying active, and learning how to manage flare-ups. Learning about COPD, building self-care skills, and getting support can help people take control of their lung health.

 

“Prevention is key when it comes to COPD”, says Julie Lemieux, Nurse Practitioner at Univi. “The most important step you can take is to avoid smoking or seek support for quitting. Early detection/treatment matters. Reach out to your Primary Care Provider. Taking action today can make a lasting difference in your long-term respiratory health!”

 

If you have breathing problems or symptoms that do not go away, talk to your primary care provider to learn more.

Footcare Services Coming to Warren

Univi Health Centre is happy to share that Footcare services will be expanding.

 

Starting Monday, April 20, 2026, Footcare services will be offered at the Warren site. This change will help improve access to care and better serve people in our communities. Footcare services help with health, comfort, and movement, especially for people with conditions like diabetes or poor circulation.

 

“Expanding Footcare services to Warren means more people can access preventive foot care closer to home. Early and regular care plays an important role in maintaining mobility and overall health.” — Crystal Legault, Footcare Nurse at Univi

 

Please note that starting that same week, Footcare day in St. Charles will move to Thursdays. Clients who go to appointments in St. Charles should remember this change when booking future visits.

 

Appointments are required. To book an appointment or learn more, please contact Univi Health Centre.

We want to hear from you!

You are invited to share your experience at Univi Health Centre.

Maybe a member of the Univi team went above and beyond, and you would like them to be recognized. Or maybe you have an idea to help us improve.

Visit univi.ca/contact-us to share your feedback or ideas.

You can submit your comments anonymously.

Some Random Facts!
  • Your brain uses about 20% of your body’s total energy.
  • Humans shed about 30,000 to 40,000 dead skin cells every minute.