The Canadian College of Health Leaders is proud to announce that William Osler Health System’s Seniors Health Program was named recipient of the 2025 Excellence in Patient Safety Award, in recognition of their groundbreaking work in transforming care for older adults with dementia through the implementation of the Butterfly Model of care.
The Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) unit, which became the first acute care setting in the world to adopt this emotion-focused model, has revolutionized how patients living with dementia (PLWD) are cared for. This model recognizes that emotional well-being is as important as physical health, offering patients a dignified, person-centered approach that improves not only clinical outcomes but also the quality of life for those affected by cognitive decline.
The Butterfly Model, introduced in 2022, has made a significant impact on patient safety at Osler, demonstrating remarkable improvements in key areas such as reducing falls, decreasing the use of antipsychotic medications, and improving patient behaviors and safety culture. By engaging an interprofessional team that includes senior leadership, frontline workers, patients, and families, Osler has fostered a collaborative environment that supports timely interventions, reduces caregiver strain, and enhances the overall patient experience. The model’s success is evident in its outcomes, and the initiative continues to evolve as the hospital provides leadership in dementia care across the healthcare system, regionally and nationally.
As the population of seniors continues to grow, particularly in Ontario’s Central West region, Osler’s pioneering work in dementia care serves as a model for other hospitals. The Butterfly Model is not only an evidence-based, non-punitive approach that improves patient safety, but it is also a scalable and transferable solution that strengthens safety culture and delivers superior care for vulnerable populations. Osler’s commitment to integrating this innovative care model into their strategic goals, ensuring sustainability, and sharing their expertise with other health systems, cements their role as a leader in patient safety and quality care for seniors. The Excellence in Patient Safety Award honors their efforts to provide safe, compassionate care to those who need it most.
This Excellence in Patient Safety Award recognizes individuals and teams that are committed to improving patient safety practices within the healthcare environment, through leadership, culture, best practices, innovation and change management expertise.
The award is sponsored by BD-Canada, one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics and the delivery of care.
This award is part of our CCHL National Awards Program and will be presented at the Honouring Health Leadership event on June 15, 2025.
For further information and/or to arrange an interview, please contact: Christian Coulombe
Vice-President, Marketing & Membership
Canadian College of Health Leaders
613-235-7219, ext. 213
ccoulombe@cchl-ccls.ca
