News
Ornge introduces steps for more transparency
November 2, 2012 By Carey Fredericks
Nov. 2, 2012, Toronto - Ornge, Ontario's provider of air ambulance and
related services, is introducing a new conflict of interest policy, to
further improve transparency and accountability within the organization.
"Everyone at Ornge has a role to play in maintaining an open and
transparent organization," said Ron McKerlie, Interim President and CEO
of Ornge. "Through the introduction of this policy, we are further
demonstrating this commitment to our staff and the public."
The
policy, which was recently approved by Ornge's volunteer Board of
Directors, is designed to promote integrity and public trust at all
levels of the organization. Ornge employees are expected to conduct
themselves with personal integrity, honesty and to exercise due
diligence in performing their duties. The new policy includes rules
about real or potential conflicts in hiring, outside business interests,
and the disclosure of confidential information.
All employees
are required to declare potential or actual conflicts of interest by the
end of January 2013. New employees will be required to declare
potential or actual conflicts of interest when they are hired. All
members of the Ornge board and executive management team have already
completed the conflict of interest declarations.
These measures
build on recent improvements to enhance the quality of service for
Ontario patients. Ornge was recently granted clearance from the U.S.
Federal
Aviation Authority to fly its helicopters into U.S.
airspace. Ornge also recently announced a new scheduled flight service
for advanced care patients in the Sudbury to Sault Ste. Marie corridor.
Ornge also recently appointed its first Patient Advocate to work with
patients and their families to resolves their concerns about patient
care and service, and to advocate for operational improvements based on
the Ornge Declaration of Patient Values.
