carepoint-health

The Power of Dietitians

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:06:05 GMT

Three Ways to Start Flourishing Today

Eat a variety of fibre-rich foods — lentils, seeds, berries. A healthy gut has a real impact on your mood and energy.
Once a week, skip the desk lunch. Share a meal. Nourishment isn't just about nutrients; it's about connection.
Talk to a dietitian. Not an influencer. Whether you're managing a diagnosis or just want to feel better day-to-day, a dietitian gives you a plan that's personalized to you .

Food is foundational. When we eat with intention and get the right support, we don't just survive the day — we show up fully for it. That's what this month is really about.

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CarePoint Health  is an interprofessional care team of primary care physicians and allied health professionals working together to improve the health and wellness of the Mississauga community. Here’s how we can help: Find a Family Doctor | Get Mental Health Support | Follow us on Social

More Than Just Fuel

Food is a human experience — and somewhere between protein calculators and trending routines, we forget that. As dietitians, we see this every day. Food connects us to our cultures through recipes passed down through generations. It brings us together over shared tables. When we eat with intention, we're not just hitting a macro target. We're honouring something bigger.

Evidence Over Hype

The grocery store in 2026 can feel like a minefield. Is that prebiotic soda actually doing anything? Do you need to go fully plant-based? And don't even get us started on the protein discussion.

This is where a dietitian earns their keep. Beyond the trends, they offer personalized, evidence-based guidance for things like:

Managing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease
Building a healthier relationship with food
Making sustainable choices — for your body and the planet

Celebrate Nutrition Month with simple, evidence-based tips from dietitians to help you “Nourish to Flourish”.

What Does "Nourish to Flourish" mean?

Fibermaxing. Gut-brain axis. Planetary health diets.

If your social media feed looks anything like ours, 2026 has already become the year of the mindful eater. As we mark Nutrition Month this March, we want to cut through the noise and get back to basics: what does it actually mean to nourish to flourish ?

To flourish isn't just to get by. It's having the energy to do things you love, the resilience to handle hard days, and the health to show up for the people around you.

Your Voice Matters

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 21:07:13 GMT

"It’s about the essential everyday leadership you provide."

To My Colleagues:

The beginning of the year always feels like a bit of a "reset" button, doesn't it? We’re all juggling the usual post-holiday surge, navigating the latest clinical guidelines, and trying to keep our heads above water.

But as we settle into 2026, I’ve been thinking a lot about the weight we’re all carrying here in Ontario. Let’s be real: between the administrative burden, the complexity of our patient panels, and the feeling that the system is constantly shifting under our feet, it’s easy to feel like our primary job is to simply survive.

In that environment, it’s tempting to stay quiet. I see it often—a colleague holds back in a meeting despite having the solution, or a family doctor defers to a specialist on a topic they know better because we’re just... tired . We second-guess our seat at the table when we shouldn't.

Why Your Voice has Power

The truth is that leadership isn’t just about sitting on a provincial board or giving a keynote. It’s about the essential everyday leadership you provide.

The "Two-Minute" Win:  You know that moment when a patient comes in spiralling over something they read on social media? Within two minutes, you’ve cut through the noise and grounded them. That clarity as a Family Physician is a form of leadership.

The System Reality Check:  You see the gaps in Ontario’s healthcare system first-hand. You see where the referrals fall through and where the community supports are lacking. Nobody else has that 360-degree view.

The Ask: Speak Up, Even if it’s Messy

We need leadership in both the big policy shifts and the small hallway moments. Our patients, our communities, and our fellow doctors need us to be heard. Not for polished speeches, but for the raw, practical insight you get from being in the room.

So, for 2026, let's make a pact.

When you see a conversation that needs a family doctor’s perspective—whether it’s in the lunchroom, a team huddle, or a provincial consultation— don’t wait for the perfect words. Just add what you know.  

Your expertise is valid, and right now, it’s more necessary than ever.

— Sundeep

Family Doctor & Clinical Director, CarePoint Health

Preparing for Ramadan

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 16:40:28 GMT

Ramadan is the ninth, holiest month in the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide – this is a time for spiritual focus, including fasting from dawn to sunset, and connection with yourself and community.

During Ramadan, the daily fast is broken with a meal called iftar and begins after a pre-dawn meal called suhoor.

Fasting can be spiritually rewarding, and it can also present challenges for the body and our nutrition needs. Having only two main meals each day, different mealtimes, and variations in food and fluid intake can affect digestion, hydration, energy levels, and metabolic health. For people living with chronic conditions like diabetes, fasting during Ramadan can be challenging to manage. Health risks may include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), dehydration, and fluctuations in glucose levels if not carefully managed.

We recognize the importance of supporting our patients and communities during Ramadan. That’s why our Registered Dietitians are hosting three workshops: Ramadan and Healthy Eating (virtual) ,  Ramadan and Diabetes (virtual) , and an in-person session on Ramadan and Diabetes at ISNA mosque (2200 South Sheridan Way, Mississauga, ON).

These sessions are designed to help participating community members make informed food choices, maintain balanced nutrition during fasting hours, understand how meal timing affects metabolism, and safely manage chronic health conditions like diabetes while observing Ramadan.

To register for the Ramadan and Diabetes Educational Workshop  click here .

To register for the Ramadan and Healthy Eating Workshop  click here .

To learn more about the workshop at the ISNA mosque click here .

Managing Diabetes in the Workplace

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 21:56:27 GMT

What are some tips on managing blood sugar levels during work hours?

Tip #1 : Many people have regular office jobs that require them to sit for long periods. A simple ten-minute walk around the office or using the stairs can help manage blood glucose. Try to keep a pair of walking shoes with you and seek out opportunities to increase movement. Simple things like parking a bit further to get a few extra steps can make a difference.

Tip #2 : Meal prepping before work can also be helpful. You can keep your work lunches and snacks simple and easy. Having something ready to grab and go before you leave for work will help avoid the need to grab lunch from a fast-food place when it’s time to eat. You also have more control over the food/ingredients you eat when you make it yourself.

Tip #3 : Keeping snacks close by will also help prevent blood sugar levels from going low on long days or at physically demanding jobs. And never forget hydration – water not only helps keep you full, but can aid with thirst, a common challenge for those living with diabetes.

How can employees participate in work potlucks and still feel included? 

If you find yourself going out with colleagues for lunch or have a work potluck, try to pick meals that are high in protein and packed with veggies. Always remember to be wise about portion sizing; moderation is key. It’s also best to pick foods that are grilled, baked, or lightly sauteed instead of those cooked in heavy oils.

Tip: Don't Arrive Hungry: Eat a small, balanced snack with protein and fiber (e.g., apple and nut/seed butter) about an hour before the event. This prevents you from overeating high-carb foods immediately. 

After a meal, go for a short walk to help the food digest. This is a great physical and social exercise. Remember – work events don’t always have to focus on food and drinks – it’s also an opportunity to enjoy the company of your colleagues.

What steps can you take to create a supportive and inclusive environment?

It’s important to help normalize conversations around chronic conditions like diabetes. If you’re comfortable, speaking to your manager or coworkers about your health needs can help others understand your situation. If you’re in a leadership position, giving people the space to discuss health accommodations without fear or judgment creates safe spaces for everyone.

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If you’d like to have better control of your diabetes and don’t have a family doctor, reach out to us for support.

CarePoint Health  is an interprofessional care team of primary care physicians and allied health professionals working together to improve the health and wellness of the Mississauga community. 

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. This year’s theme is managing diabetes in the workplace . This month reminds us of the importance of understanding diabetes and the impact it has on people’s lives.

Nutrition plays a key role in managing and preventing diabetes – whether you’re living with it yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply looking to make healthier choices. To help raise awareness and share education, we spoke to our registered dietitians about how diabetes can be managed in the workplace.

Where Do I Begin?

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:44:10 GMT

October 10th is World Mental Health Day – a powerful reminder that taking care of your mental health has never been more important.

Whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, or just not feeling like yourself, this day is about more than awareness – it’s about breaking stigmas, sharing support, and reminding each other that no one has to struggle alone.

If you’re new to this journey, it can feel overwhelming when you’re figuring out where to start. To help you or someone you care about, we sat down with Andrea, a psychologist and clinical and equity consultant for the OSP program at CarePoint Health , to understand ‘ Where do I begin ?’ when reaching out for help.

Common signs

Mental health symptoms don’t always look the same for everyone.

There are common signs, such as persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, and irritability, that can impact your daily life. Other signs, such as changes in sleep, unhealthy coping strategies such as substance abuse or even overworking, isolating, or self-harming, can also occur.

Where can I begin?

We recommend speaking to your family doctor first, so that they can understand your experience and connect you with options in your community.

If you don’t have a family doctor or want to start this journey on your own, you can  reach out to us for support.  We have trained and understanding coaches and therapists who can help you virtually, over the phone, or in person. They can even work around busy schedules through online support, check-in calls, and video conferencing. It’s important that you feel supported, no matter where you are.

Benefits of our mental health program

Support for sadness, anxiety, and fears
Open to all adults 18+ in Ontario
Free of charge
No referral or health card required
Learn real strategies at your pace

Different needs, different speeds

Everyone has different needs and requires different levels of support. Our assessment clinicians can help explain the different services we offer and match you to the support that best fits your needs. Our intake process is key because it helps us learn more about you, your goals, and which service will best fit your lifestyle (e.g., student vs. working parent).

Our goal is to help you feel supported and gain lifelong skills. Your progress is important, which is why we do check-ins and closely monitor how you feel. Based on your needs, if you require more or less support, you can move between different services within the program – this includes both individual and group therapy.

What to expect

It’s completely normal to feel nervous before your first session which is typically an intake session — the unknown can be intimidating. There is a basic and standard routine at the start, and can include the following:

Your intake clinician will explain their background, approach, and confidentiality policy.
Expect lots of questions about your history, current concerns, and goals.
You’ll collaborate to create a personalized treatment plan.
You might get tasks to do outside of session — like reflecting on goals, tracking symptoms, or completing worksheets.

Remember, the first session is just the beginning. It’s okay to take your time to open up and build trust.

It’s okay to ask for help

There is still a lot of stigma around mental health, and people might feel embarrassed or brush off their problems, “as no big deal.” Everyone has their own lived experience in life, and if your mental health is impacting your day-to-day life, it’s important to seek help.

Keep in mind that seeking support is a personal choice. If someone you care about could benefit from support, help share education on the available resources.

Caring for yourself isn’t about doing everything. It can be as simple as asking for help.

Additional Resources:

$5.1M Investment in Primary Care

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 15:08:20 GMT

On Thursday, September 3, 2025, Minister Natalia Kusendova and MPP Sheref Sabawy announced $5.1 million in new provincial funding to expand access to family doctors and primary care teams across our community.

This funding will help connect up to 12,800 more Mississauga residents to the care they need. It brings the Province one step closer to ensuring that all Ontarians have access to a primary care provider by 2029.

In collaboration with our incredible partners – Mississauga Health, Credit Valley Family Health Team, Summerville Family Health Team, and LAMP Community Health Centre – we are better supporting the health and wellness of our community. This is being achieved through the expansion of team-based primary care across Mississauga, working with Community Ambassadors to engage underserved and diverse communities, and using CarePoint Connects to match patients with available providers.

This a meaningful step toward ensuring everyone in Mississauga has access to timely, comprehensive primary care. Collaboration is at the core of everything we do. We're grateful to our partners and the Province for their support in making this possible.

We look forward to creating a well-connected and healthier future for all.

Stay Cool and Safe: Heat Safety Tips for Mississauga

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 16:02:14 GMT

Where in Mississauga can I go if I don’t have air conditioning?

“There are different ways people can access a cool space for free in the community. There are several public libraries in the city where people can go and also enjoy an activity like reading, using a computer, and participating in programs” says Tianlan (Tara) Xu, a social worker at CarePoint Health.

“ Public pools and splash pads are also a great way to have fun in the summer and keep cool,” she says. If being outdoors isn’t your thing, there are also other indoor spaces like malls that offer shade and AC.

Is there financial assistance to help with energy costs?

“Some individuals may be eligible for the Ontario Electricity Support Program ,” says Tara. People can go online to learn more about this program.

Can the extreme heat be impacting my emotions?

“Your environment can play a big role in how you feel day to day. If you are already experiencing symptoms such as irritability – things like extreme heat can make these feelings worse,” says Tara. “Working with a social worker can help people build coping skills to reduce stress and gain knowledge on how to manage heightened emotions during difficult times,” she adds.

“Self-care is an important practice to keep in mind. Everybody has their way of caring for themselves. Sometimes it can be difficult to make self-care a priority. I recommend setting a small goal to do one to two things a day that make you feel good, it’s a great first step.”

Bottom Line: Listen to Your Body

Extreme temperatures can impact us in different ways. It’s important to recognize if you may be experiencing health issues related to heat seek additional support.

Connecting with your family doctor or healthcare provider can help you learn how to prevent or manage health concerns before they become worse.

Everybody has different needs – make sure to listen to your body and seek support when you need. If you don’t have a family doctor and you’re unsure where to turn, reach out to our team for support .

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CarePoint Health is an interprofessional care team of primary care physicians and allied health professionals working together to improve the health and wellness of the Mississauga community.

Summer in Canada can get very hot – and this year has been no exception! Ontarians have experienced above-normal temperatures, with some days feeling like 40+ degrees. While many welcome warmer days, extreme temperatures can pose a risk to your health.

Vulnerable people, such as those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, pregnant women, and those without access to air conditioning or housing, are more susceptible to the impacts of extreme heat.

Sometimes, navigating resources or finding help can be difficult, which is why we spoke with one of our social workers, who specializes in connecting people to programs and community support.

Here are a few ways you can beat the heat and stay cool this summer.

On the Road to Early Detection

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 15:02:42 GMT

This past summer, CarePoint Health was proud to partner with Mississauga Health and CareFirst Ontario on the launch of the mobile cancer screening bus at three events across Mississauga, bringing vital preventive health services directly to the community. 

Our nurse practitioners led education and screening for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer in a private, mobile vehicle. Community and healthcare staff were able to receive care in a comfortable and safe space. 

One of the events in partnership with Partners Community Health (PCH), welcomed the Honourable Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Minister of Long-Term Care, who toured the mobile unit and met with our nurses and Dr. Sundeep Banwatt, Clinical Director, to discuss the importance of early detection for frontline staff.  

“By bringing these essential services directly to where people work and live, we're removing barriers to preventive care and empowering individuals to take charge of their health,” explains Andrew Bilton, Executive Director, CarePoint Health. “A partnership like this represents our ongoing commitment to innovative, community-centered healthcare delivery."

Over the course of the day, over 20 staff from PCH attended screening appointments and learned about cancer prevention, while many more stopped by to access education and resources from community partners. 

To learn more about our cancer screening services click here .

National Indigenous Peoples Day

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 13:30:37 GMT

Q: Why is Indigenous History Month important, and how can people expand their understanding?

A: Shé:kon (hello)! I'm Karry Anne Daye (she/they). I'm 2Spirit, of Mohawk/French ancestry, from Akwesasne First Nation. Indigenous History Month is important as it provides an opportunity to learn about the historical and contemporary issues impacting Indigenous people in Canada, particularly as a means of understanding and addressing harm. It is a wonderful time to explore the beauty of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures (for example, by attending regional pow wows). It's also important to reflect upon the needs of Indigenous people. Since this marks the 10th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada's 94 Calls to Action , there are specific actionable items that pertain to healthcare. I encourage people to read the TRC recommendations, reflect on them, and take action where they can.

Q: What experiences in previous roles will help guide this work?

A: As a status First Nation member and registered social worker, I have recently joined CarePoint Health as the OSP Indigenous Lead. In my 27 years of experience, I've worked alongside urban Indigenous folx in the London/GTHA area. Working with those in post-secondary schools or those impacted by homelessness or concurrent disorders, I offered culturally grounded, wholistic support from an Indigenous lens. Having both lived and professional experience as a critical social worker highlights the importance of creating spaces for equitable access for marginalized communities to navigate colonial systems, such as healthcare, that have historically been traumatic spaces to navigate.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish in your new role?

A: Within this role, I hope to listen to the needs of the Indigenous community, advocate for actionable change, and increase internal capacity, thereby creating culturally safe care that enables Indigenous people to attend to their mental health and wellbeing.

Q: Why is it important to have conversations around health access, culturally appropriate care, and barriers to access?

A: It is important to have these conversations, as healthcare has been incredibly harmful for Indigenous people. Increasing understanding, awareness, and willingness to provide care in ways that Indigenous people need is essential in efforts to reduce harm.

As an organization committed to removing barriers to healthcare and making access more equitable and culturally appropriate, CarePoint Health recently hired Karry Anne Daye, Kanien’kéha (Mohawk), as Indigenous Lead, to support a new Indigenous pathway for the OSP program.

In honour of Indigenous History Month and Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21), we spoke with Karry Anne about her role and the significance of this month.

Celebrating Five Years of Care

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 20:05:53 GMT

Connecting Care with Community

Walking through our clinic on open house day brought a unique energy that's difficult to describe. Partners moved through our hallways with curious expressions, finally seeing the vibrant artwork and spaces that make CarePoint so unique. Our healthcare team—the same dedicated individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes—was able to share their passion directly with the community they serve.

"This is my first time visiting the clinic, as I’ve had many virtual calls with the team during the pandemic," mentioned one attendee. "Seeing the space and meeting some of the dietitians, nurses, and social workers showed me how team-based care can really benefit patients and the larger community.”

Building Bridges in Healthcare

The open house wasn't just about showcasing our facility—it was about forging stronger connections within our healthcare ecosystem. Representatives from partner organizations engaged in meaningful discussions about enhancing patient access and improving care coordination, conversations that often get lost in the day-to-day bustle of healthcare delivery.

These dialogues reminded us of why we serve the community in the first place: to make a tangible difference in people's lives. When providers from different organizations come together with this shared purpose, the possibilities for improving patient care are endless.

Looking Forward: The Next Five Years

As we reflect on five years of service, we're filled with gratitude for our patients who trust us with their health, for our partners who collaborate with us to improve care, and for our team who embody our values in every interaction.

But this milestone is not just about looking back—it's about moving forward with renewed purpose. The conversations started at our open house have already sparked initiatives aimed at expanding access to care for underserved populations in our community.

As we blow out the candles on our fifth-anniversary cake, we're making a wish for healthier communities, stronger partnerships, and continued excellence in patient care.

Join Our Journey

For Patients: Your health journey doesn't have to be travelled alone. If you don’t have a family doctor and haven't experienced the CarePoint difference, we invite you to call us or book an appointment at CarePointConnects.ca. Our team is ready to listen to your concerns and develop a care plan that addresses your unique needs.

For Healthcare Partners : The collaborations discussed during our open house are just the beginning. We're always open to partnerships that share our vision of a healthier community for all. Whether you're interested in a community health initiative, an onsite clinic, or a collaboration, reach out to our Engagement Team to explore how we can achieve more together.

For Family Physicians : As a family physician, you face unique challenges every day. At CarePoint Health, we've designed our services to address these challenges and help you thrive. Team-based care means better care for you and your patients.

In a busy healthcare setting, moments to pause and celebrate are precious. This year marked a significant milestone for us at CarePoint Health—our fifth anniversary! To celebrate this achievement, we decided to do something special by hosting our first community open house, opening our doors to welcome partners who have supported us on our journey.

$1.2M Investment in Team-Based Care

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 20:16:16 GMT

CarePoint Health was proud to welcome the Honourable Minister Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, MPP, and Sheref Sabawy, MPP, alongside key partners and guests, to celebrate a milestone investment in team-based primary care in Mississauga. This visit highlighted the Ontario government’s $1.2 million commitment through Mississauga Health Ontario Health Team (OHT), aimed at expanding integrated, accessible, and collaborative care for all local residents.

This transformative funding has supported interprofessional primary care teams, benefiting up to 3,400 residents and enabling 800 rostered patients to access enhanced services. The investment also includes the expansion of nurse practitioner-led care and increased collaboration with local health partners like Trillium Health Partners and Partners Community Health.

Special thanks were extended to Dr. Sohal Goyal and Heather Relf, who passionately emphasized the critical role that primary care providers play in improving patient outcomes and community wellness. Their insights helped bring to life the positive impact of this initiative for both health professionals and patients alike.

This investment marks an important step forward in addressing local health care needs and building a system that supports both patients and providers.

Advancing Team-Based Care

Creating Capacity for Physicians

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 20:16:16 GMT

Recognizing the Significance of Team-Based Care

At a time when Ontario faces a growing crisis in primary care, the Ontario Medical Association’s new report, Prescription for Ontario: Doctors’ Solutions for Immediate Action, highlights a proven solution: expanding access to team-based care. With over 2.2 million Ontarians without a family doctor, the call for more collaborative, integrated health care models has never been more urgent.

Team-based care not only improves patient outcomes but also helps alleviate the strain on physicians facing mounting administrative demands and burnout. Dr. Mekalai Kumanan, president of the Ontario College of Family Physicians, explains that when doctors are supported by a team of healthcare professionals, leverage technology and can reorganize their work, they can spend more time focusing on their patients.

Dr. Sundeep Banwatt, family physician and clinical director at CarePoint Health in Mississauga, understands firsthand how team-based care can improve patient health but also broaden the support a physician can provide.

“Team-based care is an important part of a patient’s needs for their health care, but it’s also integral in terms of the work I do as a family physician,” he said. “It allows me to affect other parts of (their) health that are not traditionally thought of as the medical part of health."

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CarePoint Health is an interprofessional care team of primary care physicians and allied health professionals working together to improve the health and wellness of the Mississauga communities.