By Emily Stonehouse

There’s a new face leading the charge at Haliburton Highlands Health Services (HHHS), but some may recognize him from around town.

Jack Hutchison is a Haliburton County local, who grew up in Minden and graduated Haliburton Highlands Secondary School a number of years ago.

After leaving the community to attend post-secondary, Hutchison held a variety of health system leadership roles, most recently as a Chief Operating Officer, supporting a broad portfolio including corporate services, people and culture, and information management. He’s also worked closely on capital redevelopment and system planning across the province, with a passion for rural healthcare on the forefront.

But when the position became available for the president and CEO of HHHS, Hutchison knew it was time to move back home. “I truly believe that in roles like this, and those of our frontline staff, that when you work in a smaller community, and if you’re from there, you really are serving the community,” he said. “You’re not just caring for patients, you’re caring for your family, friends, and neighbours, and that brings a special sense of purpose and drive.”

Hutchison returned to the community with his wife, Victoria, and their two young kids earlier this year. He officially started in his role with HHHS on March 30, and has immediately hit the ground running. “I am passionate about rural and remote healthcare,” he said, “breaking down barriers, increasing access, building pathways for our patients and making a positive difference for our community.”

He noted that while he has big visions for the organization, he isn’t starting from scratch. The role was previously held by Jennifer Burns-West as the interim president, when Veronica Nelson, who was instrumental in navigating the community outcry during the closure of the Minden ER in 2023, began work at Ross Memorial Hospital. “This organization has made great strides over the past few years, and has great momentum, so we want to build on that,” said the new president.

Hutchison shared that the two former presidents laid the groundwork for the direction the organization is headed, and staff were quick to welcome his additions to the vision ahead. “I’ve felt very welcome here,” he said, “right from day one.”

In terms of looking ahead, Hutchison noted that they are nearing their end of their three-year strategic plan. “I see HHHS continuing to be a cornerstone of this community,” he said, “providing high-quality, compassionate care close to home. I also see an organization that continues to grow thoughtfully, embraces innovation, and remains deeply connected to the people it serves. Most importantly, I see a team that continues to take pride in their work and in one another.”

Through listening, learning, and finding ways to fill in the gaps, Hutchison is confident that he can lead the team at local sites. “Success in rural healthcare is about access, quality, and trust,” he said. “It’s about ensuring people can receive the care they need, close to home, delivered by teams they know and trust. It’s also about the experience – how people feel when they walk through our doors, and how supported our staff feel in delivering that care.”

While the province continues to navigate challenges around healthcare funding, Hutchison believes in the community that raised him, and feels dedicated to giving back. “I truly believe that your address should not dictate your access to high quality healthcare services,” he said. “So (we) will be breaking down those barriers, and continuing to develop partnerships that bring access to services for our community.”