A dramatic drop in emergency department visits is being credited to the success of Brightshores’ Wellness and Recovery Centre in Owen Sound.
Over the past three years, emergency visits within 30 days of discharge for mental health and addiction care have fallen sharply — from 410 visits in 2022 to 52 in 2024, and just four visits in 2025 across Brightshores and partner hospitals.
The centre, which opened in June 2024 inside a repurposed school, provides stable housing, individualized recovery plans, follow-up care, medical clinics, and crisis supports for people with complex needs.
Health leaders say the model is the first of its kind in Ontario and is gaining attention for helping people access care earlier while reducing reliance on emergency departments.
Officials add the results reflect improved stability, stronger support after discharge, and better connections to ongoing mental health and addiction services across Grey-Bruce.