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Fact Sheet
Supported Attachment for Complex Patients
Deploying a hybrid approach to improve patient outcomes and system benefits
Feb 12, 2026
Ontario Health Teams (OHTs) continue to expand patient attachment, yet many regions face persistent challenges connecting clinically complex, multimorbid patients to primary care. These individuals experience higher rates of emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and mortality, placing significant pressure on the health system.
A hybrid approach to supported attachment offers a practical, scalable model that leverages both virtual care and locally delivered in-person services. This model enables OHTs to stabilize high-need patients, reduce avoidable emergency use, and ensure continuity until attachment to a primary care provider is available.
Why It Matters for System Planning
- Addresses urgent needs among high-risk, unattached patients
- Reduces emergency room overcrowding and avoidable hospitalizations
- Supports physician retention by easing initial clinical load
- Requires no major capital investment and aligns with existing OHT funding streams
Download the fact sheet to learn how a supported attachment program can help OHT's rapidly implement a hybrid model that improves outcomes, strengthens continuity, and delivers measurable system benefits.