Tag: Care for Specific Populations

  • Bits & Pieces: check your junk mail, how to get up to $150,000& more

    Bits & Pieces: check your junk mail, how to get up to $150,000& more

    Your Weekly News & Updates


    In This Issue  
    • How to get up to $150K to rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID
    • #AFHTO2020: yes, we’re asking you to check your junk mail
    • Virtual mental health tools demonstration & video testimonial for Mental Health Awareness Day

     

    • Dr. Elizabeth Muggah now President of the Ontario College of Family Physicians
    • COVID-19 screening tool for children in school and childcare and more
    • Upcoming events regarding Arts on Prescription and more

    How to get up to $150K to rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID

    Resilient Communities Fund webinar

    The Ontario government is investing $83 million to provide grants through the Resilient Communities Fund to help eligible non-profit organizations, including family health teams and primary care organizations, recover from COVID-19 and continue the delivery of vital programming in their communities. All teams are eligible to apply for this financial support!

    On September 29, we hosted a webinar about how teams can tap into these funds. The submission deadline is December 2. Slides and video now available.


    #AFHTO2020: yes, we’re asking you to check your junk mail

    AFHTO 2020 Conference logo-cropped

    If you registered for the conference by Oct. 2, your login information was sent by in an email titled “AFHTO 2020 Conference login Information and tips for your conference experience” by Sunday, Oct. 4. Please check your junk mail if you haven’t seen this email.

    If you did not receive the email please contact regAFHTO@mosaicevents.ca.
    And if you haven’t registered yet, you still can- join your peers from Ontario and beyond!


    Virtual mental health tools demonstration

    Virtual mental health tools demonstration & video testimonial for Mental Health Awareness Day

    On Sep. 24 we hosted a demonstration of Togetherall, BounceBack and Beacon, all provided free of charge.

    Slides and video available

    Togetherall also has video testimonial and graphics to be released on Mental Health Awareness Day Oct 10. Find materials here.


    Dr. Elizabeth Muggah now President of the Ontario College of Family Physicians

    Congratulations to Dr. Elizabeth Muggah of Bruyère Academic FHT, who has been installed as the OCFP president.


    COVID-19 screening tool for children in school and childcare and more

    Updates recently released include:

    We continue to update several pages on our site with resources and news:


    Arts on Prescription: Improving health and wellbeing through arts participation, Oct. 6, 2020

    Explore considerations from experts working with diverse youth on considerations for health and service providers.
    Learn more here.


    AFHTO 2020 Conference, Oct. 8-9, 2020

    You can still register for Tectonic shifts: rebuilding primary care in a new world, our 2020 virtual conference! Members receive a significant discount so contact your administrator for your member access code. Find out more here.


    COVID-19 Community of Practice for Ontario Family Physicians, October 16, 2020

    Join the OCFP and Department of Family and Community Medicine at UofT for their 10th CoP meeting in their series ‘Changing the way we work”, focusing on rising case counts, respiratory assessment centres, flue shots and more during COVID-19.
    Learn more here.


    Respiratory Health Forum, Oct. 21, 2020.

    This year’s forum will be held virtually and is completely free! Learn more about lung health alongside other primary care professionals.
    Learn more here.

  • Bits & Pieces: member stories in AFHTO annual report, call for stricter measures to address COVID-19 & more

    Bits & Pieces: member stories in AFHTO annual report, call for stricter measures to address COVID-19 & more

    Your Weekly News & Updates


    In This Issue  
    • AFHTO annual report featuring your stories
    • Letter to the Premier for stricter measures to address COVID-19
    • Two days to the #AFHTO2020 early bird deadline
    • Indigenous relationship and cultural safety (IRCS) courses
    • COVID-19 testing guidance update and more
    • Survey of IHPs in FHTs during the COVID-19 pandemic
    • OMA flu vaccination administration survey
    • Guelph FHT annual report
    • Reminder- research participant recruitment – concussion telerehabilitation study
    • Reminder-engagement of patients with diabetes via virtual health apps survey
    • Upcoming events regarding Arts on Prescription and more

    2020 annual report

     

    AFHTO annual report featuring your stories

    We released our 2020 annual report in the notice for our annual general meeting sent to the triad yesterday. Read for a reflection on a tumultuous year, including ways primary care teams have risen to the challenge.

     

     


    Letter to the Premier for stricter measures to address COVID-19

    “The measures announced on September 25th are not sufficient. Protecting the most vulnerable in the province and conserving the limited health care resources we have should be our number one priority.”

    Today AFHTO, NPAO and OCFP sent a letter to the Premier calling for stricter measures to address escalating numbers of COVID-19 cases before the situation becomes unmanageable. Read the full letter here.


    Two days to the #AFHTO2020 early bird deadline

    AFHTO 2020 Conference logo-cropped

    We’re connecting with our speakers including Helen Bevan, editing the Bright Lights video, and preparing for a memorable conference next week. Don’t forget to do your part and register by this Thursday, Oct. 1 for the early bird discount. Group discount now available!

    In previous years we have sometimes extended the deadline, but this is the closest to the conference we’ve ever had, so there will be no extension this year.


    Indigenous relationship and cultural safety (IRCS) courses
    Primary care can pick from 13 e-learning courses on Indigenous Relationship and Cultural Safety by Cancer Care Ontario and earn certified credits. Find out more here.


    COVID-19 testing guidance update and more

    Updates recently released include:

    We continue to update several pages on our site with resources and news:


    Survey of IHPs in FHTs during the COVID-19 pandemic

    We are now six months since the initial restrictions of COVID-19 and Queen’s University researchers are interested in hearing about your experiences working in FHTs during this time. You’re invited to participate in a brief web-based survey to understand the evolving experiences of interprofessional health care providers in Family Health Teams in Ontario during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    This research is being led by Drs. Catherine Donnelly (Associate Professor, Queen’s University) and Jordan Miller (Assistant Professor, Queen’s University). If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Catherine Donnelly by email at catherine.donnelly@queensu.ca.


    OMA flu vaccination administration survey

    Many primary care providers will have difficulty conducting their usual flu vaccine clinics due to limits on physical space, PPE supply and office cleaning requirements, among other challenges. OMA has developed a survey to find out the barriers you’re anticipating, what supports might be helpful and the innovative ideas you are leading or participating in as you prepare for flu vaccine administration. They would greatly value your input through this five-to-seven-minute survey. Please respond by Oct. 7.

    If the survey is being done as a group, please note as such and do not complete the survey more than once.


    Guelph FHT annual report

    The Guelph Family Health Team 2019-2020 Annual Report is available to read online. Learn about the work they do to provide patient-guided quality focused care.


    Reminder- research participant recruitment – concussion telerehabilitation study

    Researchers in the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Toronto are currently recruiting youth with concussion to participate in a study exploring the use of telerehabilitation for concussion management. Youth will participate in a 6-week rehabilitation program consisting of education, support and low-intensity exercise delivered by a kinesiologist or occupational therapist through weekly videoconferencing appointments.

    Who can participate?

    • Youth (ages 13-18 years) experiencing concussion symptoms
    • At least 2 weeks post-concussion

    For more information click here. To help with participant recruitment, please contact the research team at oaktelerehab@utoronto.ca or 416-946-3273.


    Reminder-engagement of patients with diabetes via virtual health apps survey
    A York University researcher is seeking input from family physicians, nurses and nurse practitioners. The aim of their research is to improve practice and policy about the potential of Virtual Health Apps use in primary care settings with a special focus on vulnerable and marginalized patient populations. To provide your input, please fill out this survey. Updated deadline Oct. 30.


    Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) pulmonary disease diagnosis and management: An overview for general practitioners, Sept. 30, 2020

    Recognize clinical factors and learn to treat NTM pulmonary disease.
    Learn more here.


    Arts on Prescription: Improving health and wellbeing through arts participation, Oct. 6, 2020

    Explore considerations from experts working with diverse youth on considerations for health and service providers.
    Learn more here.


    AFHTO 2020 Conference, Oct. 8-9, 2020

    Registration has opened for Tectonic shifts: rebuilding primary care in a new world, our 2020 virtual conference! Members receive a significant discount so contact your administrator for your member access code. Early bird deadline Oct. 1. Find out more here.


    Respiratory Health Forum, Oct. 21, 2020.

    This year’s forum will be held virtually and is completely free! Learn more about lung health alongside other primary care professionals.
    Learn more here.


    COVID-19 Community of Practice for Ontario Family Physicians, October 16, 2020

    Join the OCFP and Department of Family and Community Medicine at UofT for their 10th CoP meeting in their series ‘Changing the way we work”, focusing on rising case counts, respiratory assessment centres, flue shots and more during COVID-19.
    Learn more here.

  • Bits & Pieces: OHT partners & #AFHTO2020, updated symptom reference & more

    Bits & Pieces: OHT partners & #AFHTO2020, updated symptom reference & more

    Your Weekly News & Updates


    In This Issue  
    • Just over 2 wks to the conference- invite your OHT partners
    • Electronic Asthma Management System demo slides and video available
    • BEACON iCBT provincial program – resources & demonstration Sep. 24
    • Updated symptoms reference and more
    • Member access to conference recordings
    • Learning and improvement collaboratives for Ontario Health Teams
    • Ontario Health survey on equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism
    • New quality standard for problematic alcohol use and alcohol use disorder
    • Submit a nomination for 2020 Canada’s volunteer awards
    • Upcoming events regarding the OTF Resilient Communities Fund and more

    Just over 2 wks to the conference- invite your OHT partners

    The AFHTO 2020 conference is an invaluable opportunity for all OHT partners to gain greater insight into your contributions to healthcare, so invite them to take part.

    With sessions like:

    There’s so much for them to learn.

     Don’t forget to register before Oct.1-use the member access code to get your discounted rate (sent to your team’s leadership)!


    Electronic Asthma Management System demo

     

    Electronic Asthma Management System demo slides and video available

    On Sep. 15 we held a live demonstration of the Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) tool. Video and slides for that demonstration are now available.

     

     


    BEACON iCBT provincial program – resources & demonstration Sep. 24

    BEACON is accessible and effective online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, guided by a registered Mental Health professional, and now funded by the Government of Ontario during COVID-19. Over 80% of participants have experienced symptom reduction and two-thirds have experienced clinically significant improvement.

    If you have any questions about BEACON, please feel free to contact colin.andersen@mindbeacon.com

    We will have a demonstration of BEACON, along with Togetherall and Bounceback Sep. 24.

    Togetherall (previously known as Big White Wall) is endorsed and paid for by the Government of Ontario and Ministry of Health. Bounceback is an evidence-based, skill-building program grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association and is FREE to all Ontarians aged 15+.Register here.


    Updated symptoms reference and more

    Updates recently released include:

    We continue to update several pages on our site with resources and news:


    Member access to conference recordings

    After our in-person conference, available presentation slides are typically posted for members. This year, to help cover associated costs, we’re taking a somewhat different approach.

    Members will get access to individual session recordings and/or slides for a nominal fee of $15 compared to non-members for $25.

    In addition, all AFHTO members will get free access to recordings of keynote sessions, previously unavailable with our in-person event. Free member access includes:

    • Helen Bevan
    • Matt Anderson
    • Minister Elliott
    • Dr. Jane Philpott
    • And poster pdfs

    Presenters who decline to participate need to do so by contacting conference@afhto.ca by this Friday, Sep. 25.


    Learning and improvement collaboratives for Ontario Health Teams

    RISE & OH(Q) have created chat rooms/CoPs per priority population, patients & caregivers and digital health. Ontario Health Teams (OHTs) learning and improvement collaboratives bring together those actively participating in the development of OHTs with experts drawn from across the province, including system leaders, people with lived experience, and researchers.

    Learn more about how you can participate.


    Ontario Health survey on equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism
    With a lens towards health equity, OH has also initiated a project to complete an equity assessment and develop an action plan to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion, and to address anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism. Although FHT and NPLC contracts are currently not managed by OH, we encourage members to fill in the Survey on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism for Health Service Providers.

    This will help advance the vision of a more integrated health system that eliminates health disparities, addresses the social determinants of health, and delivers excellent and equitable access, experience, and outcomes for all Ontarians.


    New quality standard for problematic alcohol use and alcohol use disorder

    Ontario Health (Quality) has released a new quality standard for problematic alcohol use and alcohol use disorder.

    For more information contact OH-HQO_QualityStandards@ontariohealth.ca.


    Submit a nomination for 2020 Canada’s volunteer awards
    Nominate a not-for-profit organization, an individual, a group of volunteers, a social enterprise or a business that is making a difference in your community. Deadline Sep. 30.


    OTF Resilient Communities Fund Webinar with Optimus, Sep. 29, 2020
    Learn more about the supports your team can receive to rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19 through the Ontario Trillium Fund. Hosted by AFHTO.
    Register today!


    Youth and Cannabis Use Speaker Series: Part 2: Panel Discussion: Cannabis use amongst Diverse Youth, Sept. 29, 2020

    Explore considerations from experts working with diverse youth on considerations for health and service providers.
    Learn more here.


    BETTER Prevention Practitioner Training, Oct. 1-2, 2020
    Healthcare professionals can learn how to better prevent and screen chronic diseases in primary care through this 2-day workshop held by the Better Program (Women’s College Hospital).
    More details can be found here.


    AFHTO 2020 Conference, Oct. 8-9, 2020

    Registration has opened for Tectonic shifts: rebuilding primary care in a new world, our 2020 virtual conference! Members receive a significant discount so contact your administrator for your member access code. Early bird deadline Oct. 1. Find out more here.


    Special Interest Two-Part Series Infant And Early Childhood Mental Health In Primary Care, Oct. 14 & 21, 2020

    Attend this 2-part series covering infant and early child mental health case studies, held by CHEO (CAMH).
    Find out more here.


    Annual Toronto Geriatrics Update Virtual Course, Oct. 30, 2020
    The UHN’s annual geriatrics CPD course is now being offered online. Join this one day course for lectures and breakout sessions on geriatric issues and syndromes during the pandemic.
    Learn more here.


    Hearing Your Voices: A Virtual Conference on Compassion and Technology for Patients, Family and Caregivers, Nov. 3 and 4, 2020
    Listen to the experiences of patients, families and caregivers during COVID-19 and make recommendations for a more compassionate healthcare system.
    Find out more here

  • Bits & Pieces: conference panels and on-demand sessions, Kids In Crisis Town Hall & more

    Bits & Pieces: conference panels and on-demand sessions, Kids In Crisis Town Hall & more

    Your Weekly News & Updates


    In This Issue  
    • AFHTO 2020 Conference: panels and on-demand sessions
    • Kids In Crisis Town Hall, September 17
    • Reminder: COVID-19 ED Surveys end soon
    • Virtual mental health tools – Togetherall and Bounceback demonstrations, Sep. 24
    • Flu vaccine guidance and more
    • Recently published PHO resources
    • Two new quality standards on asthma
    • Reminder-engagement of patients with diabetes via virtual health apps survey
    • Upcoming events regarding the OTF Resilient Communities Fund and more

    Matt Anderson

    AFHTO 2020 Conference: panels and on-demand sessions

    On both days we’ll launch concurrent session panels  to kick off each theme.

    We’re also happy to announce we’ll release an on-demand webcast Q&A with Matthew Anderson, President and CEO, Ontario Health as part of our free Thursday morning programming.  

    Matt will speak to his vision for primary care and how interprofessional primary care teams fit in Ontario Health’s mandate.

    And we have even more on-demand sessions for you to enjoy, available to anyone who has registered for that day!*

     Register before Oct.1-use the member access code to get your discounted rate (sent to your team’s leadership)!

    *Does not apply to those who have solely registered for the free programming on Thursday morning.


    Kids In Crisis Town Hall, September 17

    Kids In Crisis Town Hall

    The Children’s Health Coalition, a growing collective of Ontario’s children’s health organizations, including AFHTO are sounding the alarm on the crisis facing children’s health care. We are warning the Ontario government that a generation of lives is at stake if we don’t act now.
     
    On behalf of the Children’s Health Coalition, we’d like to invite you to attend the Kids In Crisis Town Hall on September 17, 2020, at 7 p.m. ET. The telephone town hall will provide a forum for mental health professionals, pediatric physicians, front line providers and families to discuss the impacts of COVID-19 on our already strained children’s health care sector.

    Even before the pandemic began, 28,000 children in Ontario were on waiting lists for mental health services, 80,000 children are currently on a waitlist for rehabilitation services and over 30,000 pediatric procedures and appointments at children’s hospitals have been cancelled. The challenges brought on by COVID-19 have made a difficult situation even worse.  
     
    We are calling on the Ontario government immediately make substantive investments in children’s health care to alleviate the suffering of more than 160,000 children and families who are desperately waiting for mental health treatment, hospital surgeries and procedures, child development and rehabilitation services, and pediatric home care services.   

    Register today, and help us spread the word on Twitter and Facebook. We hope you can join us for this important conversation.


    Reminder: COVID-19 ED Surveys end soon

    AFHTO, in partnership with the University of Toronto and Queen’s University, wants to understand the initiatives your team has taken on to continue to provide comprehensive primary care during this pandemic. Surveys will end Sept 19th.
    Please fill out the survey here.


    Virtual mental health tools – Togetherall and Bounceback demonstrations, Sep. 24

    Togetherall (previously known as Big White Wall) is endorsed and paid for by the Government of Ontario and Ministry of Health. Bounceback is an evidence-based, skill-building program grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association and is FREE to all Ontarians aged 15+. Register here.


    Flu vaccine guidance and more

    Updates recently released include:

    We continue to update several pages on our site with resources and news:


    Recently published PHO resources


    Two new quality standards on asthma

    Ontario Health (Quality) has released two new quality standards:

    For more information contact OH-HQO_QualityStandards@ontariohealth.ca.


    Reminder-engagement of patients with diabetes via virtual health apps survey

    A York University researcher is seeking input from family physicians, nurses and nurse practitioners. The aim of their research is to improve practice and policy about the potential of Virtual Health Apps use in primary care settings with a special focus on vulnerable and marginalized patient populations. To provide your input, please fill out this survey. Deadline today, Sep. 15.


    OTF Resilient Communities Fund Webinar with Optimus, Sep. 29, 2020
    Learn more about the supports your team can receive to rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19 through the Ontario Trillium Fund. Hosted by AFHTO.
    Register today!


    Digital Health and Virtual Care Day, Oct 1. 2020

    Join OMD’s virtual care day for providers and administrative staff. Experience the same educational experience as their EMR: Every Step conference. Learn more here.


    AFHTO 2020 Conference, Oct. 8-9, 2020

    Registration has opened for Tectonic shifts: rebuilding primary care in a new world, our 2020 virtual conference! Members receive a significant discount so contact your administrator for your member access code. Early bird deadline Oct. 1. Find out more here.


    Paediatric Advance Care Planning and the Uniqueness of Paediatric Palliative Care, Oct. 7 & 14, 2020

    This two-part webinar series is hosted by the HPCO and intended for healthcare providers.
    Learn more here.

  • Bits & Pieces: Updated primary care guidance, governing through COVID-19 & more

    Bits & Pieces: Updated primary care guidance, governing through COVID-19 & more

    Your Weekly News & Updates


    In This Issue  
    • Governing through COVID-19 and beyond slides and video available
    • AFHTO 2020 Conference: concurrent sessions and Minister Elliott
    • IHP Sessions: last call for leads
    • In a time of need: a grassroots initiative in response to PPE shortage in the COVID-19 pandemic
    • Updated primary care guidance, sick notes and more
    • GoodLife reopening- existing rates extended until November 14
    • Upcoming events regarding the Electronic Asthma Management System tool and more

    Governing through COVID-19

    Governing through COVID-19 and beyond slides and video available

    On August 25, we held a webinar on “Governing through COVID-19 and Beyond” to discuss governance at this time of uncertainty and change. It included guidance and advice to board members on resumption of services; what governors should know about OHTs; and where we can go from here to continue to strengthen organizational governance practices and prioritise board efforts.

    Slides and video are now available in our members only section. Please share with your board members.

    Additional tools that may be of interest include:


    Minister Christine Elliott

     

    AFHTO 2020 Conference: concurrent sessions and Minister Elliott

    Concurrent session descriptions are now available– we have diverse topics all relevant to Ontario primary care.

    We’re also happy to announce Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Hon. Christine Elliott will join us Thursday afternoon to provide remarks to our members and speak about the role of primary care in the pandemic response.  Register before Oct.1-use the member access code to get your discounted rate (sent to your team’s leadership)!

     


    IHP Sessions: last call for leads

    We now have leads for most of the popular break-out sessions at the AFHTO 2020 Conference

    but still need volunteers for the following professions:

    • Psychologists
    • Physician assistants
    • Administrative
    • Health promoters

     If you’re interested, please contact Beth MacKinnon today. The lead will receive a $20 discount on their conference fee.


    In a time of need: a grassroots initiative in response to PPE shortage in the COVID-19 pandemic

    Article in the July edition of Healthcare Quarterly about the initiative to address a critical shortage of personal protective equipment in the London–Middlesex region. It involved the London–Middlesex Primary Care Alliance, volunteer administrators, Thames Valley FHT and medical students. Read more here (log in needed for full article).


    Updated primary care guidance, sick notes and more

    Updates released within the last week include:

    We continue to update several pages on our site with resources and news:


    GoodLife reopening- existing rates extended until November 14
    GoodLife rates for AFHTO members were due to increase at the end of May, but because of closures due to COVID, existing – annual (paid in full) rates of $519 and biweekly rates of $24- have been extended until November 14. Those with existing GoodLife memberships should have already received emails from GoodLife. Phasing updates by region are available on their site here.

    To take advantage of discounted rates, you need a membership ID assigned by AFHTO. Automatically assigned to those on the ‘Bits & Pieces’ mailing list, these are sent to GoodLife monthly near the end of the month. To get your ID or be put on the list for one, please email info@afhto.ca.

    As of November 15, annual (paid in full) rates will be $619 and biweekly rates $25.


    Treatable Rare Diseases In The Generalists Clinic, Sep. 10 & 17, 2020
    Join Sanofi Genzyme for this webinar on rare diseases such as Pompe disease and hATTR. Two dates are offered for your convenience. Find out more here.


    Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) – tool demonstration, Sep. 15

    The Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) is an evidence-based clinical decision support system developed to improve your ability to deliver best care for patients with asthma. Find out more here.


    OTF Resilient Communities Fund Webinar with Optimus, Sep. 29, 2020
    Learn more about the supports your team can receive to rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19 through the Ontario Trillium Fund. Hosted by AFHTO.
    Register today!


    Keeping Pace: A Virtual Conference on Cyber Security in the Public Sector, Oct 1. 2020

    The Ontario Government is hosting its first-ever, full-day cyber-security conference. You will explore current and future cyber risks to Ontario’s broader public sector and more.
    Learn more here.


    Osgoode Professional Development, Oct. 5, 2020 – Apr 28, 2021

    AFHTO is partnering with York University’s OPD to provide members 10% off a variety of health law programs for professional development. For discount code and course offerings, click here.


    AFHTO 2020 Conference, Oct. 8-9, 2020

    Registration has opened for Tectonic shifts: rebuilding primary care in a new world, our 2020 virtual conference! Members receive a significant discount so contact your administrator for your member access code. Early bird deadline Oct. 1. Find out more here.

  • Bits & Pieces: OTF Resilient Communities Fund webinar, cancer screening & more

    Bits & Pieces: OTF Resilient Communities Fund webinar, cancer screening & more

    Your Weekly News & Updates


    In This Issue  
    • OTF Resilient Communities Fund webinar Sep 29
    • Reminder- Electronic Asthma Management System tool demonstration, Sep. 15
    • IHP Sessions: six leads still needed
    • Breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening and FIT requisition update
    • OMA pocket journal for contact tracing and more
    • Upcoming events including Care Of The Elderly and more

    OTF Resilient Communities Fund webinar Sep 29

    Grants available to help teams rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19:
    Join us September 29, 12:00-12:30 p.m. to find out how your team can tap into these funds.

    The Ontario government is investing $83 million through the Ontario Trillium Foundation to provide grants through this Resilient Communities Fund to help eligible non-profit organizations, including family health teams and primary care organizations, recover from COVID-19 and continue the delivery of vital programming in their communities.

    In this webinar, Andrea Spencer and Jason Huehn from Optimus SBR will provide an overview of the Resilient Communities Fund application process and requirements, discuss how your organization can benefit from the fund, and provide strategic advice on how to maximize your probability of success in securing funding. The next submission deadline is December 2. Register here.


    Reminder- Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) – tool demonstration, Sep. 15

    Significant gaps persist in asthma care across Ontario. The Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) is an evidence-based clinical decision support system developed to improve your ability to deliver best care for patients with asthma. Find out more here.


    IHP Sessions: six leads still needed

    We still need volunteers to lead the popular break-out sessions at the AFHTO 2020 Conference for the following professions:

    • Health promoters
    • Nurse practitioners
    • Physiotherapists
    • Psychologists
    • Nurses (RN/RPN)
    • Administrative
    • Physician assistants

     If you’re interested, please contact Beth MacKinnon today. The lead will receive a $20 discount on their conference fee.


    Breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening and FIT requisition update

    Summary Guidance for Primary Care Providers Resuming Cancer Screening_2020-08-25

    As of August 25, 2020, LifeLabs will start accepting new fecal immunochemical test (FIT) requisitions for groups at higher risk of colorectal cancer:

    • Average risk people over age 60 who have never been screened for colorectal cancer
    • Average risk people with previous unsatisfactory FIT results
    • Eligible average risk people awaiting organ transplant

    LifeLabs will continue to send out a limited number of FIT kits per day to allow for a gradual resumption of services across the healthcare system. As such, primary care providers can begin sending in new FIT requisitions when seeing patients in one of the higher risk groups identified above.  

    To ensure a coordinated resumption of services, Ontario Health strongly encourages Regional Cancer Programs, primary care providers and endoscopists to work together to ensure appropriate follow-up of patients with abnormal FIT results.

    Reminder regarding breast cancer and cervical screening
    Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario) is recommending that routine breast and cervical screening tests be resumed in a gradual manner. For reference, a summary of Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario)’s guidance for resuming breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening is here.  

    Detailed tip sheets have been developed for healthcare providers to guide the resumption of these services, please email cancerinfo@ontariohealth.ca if you would like a copy.

    If you have any questions about resuming cancer screening, please contact cancerinfo@ontariohealth.ca.


    OMA pocket journal for contact tracing and more

    Updates released within the last week include:

    We continue to update several pages on our site with resources and news:


    Approaches to Health Care Consent, Advance Care Planning & Goals of Care Conversations, August 27- September 17, 2020

    Four-part webinar series from Hospice Palliative Care Ontario for front line workers, health care/service providers and first responders. Find out more and register here.


    ECHO Care Of The Elderly, Sep. 9 to Dec 16, 2020
    Join CAMH on Wednesdays to brush up on your capacity to care for the frail and complex aging individuals.
    Apply here.


    Strengthening Families Together Virtual Series, Sept. 10- Oct. 1, 2020

    Share this webinar series by IAmMentalHealth with any caregivers to those with schizophrenia or a psychosis related illness. Learn more here.


    Osgoode Professional Development, Oct. 5, 2020 – Apr 28, 2021

    AFHTO is partnering with York University’s OPD to provide members 10% off a variety of health law programs for professional development. For discount code and course offerings, click here.


    AFHTO 2020 Conference, Oct. 8-9, 2020

    Registration has opened for Tectonic shifts: rebuilding primary care in a new world, our 2020 virtual conference! Members receive a significant discount so contact your administrator for your member access code. Early bird deadline Oct. 1. Find out more here.

  • Bits & Pieces: IHP session leads, back to school advice, OTF youth grant & more

    Bits & Pieces: IHP session leads, back to school advice, OTF youth grant & more

    Your Weekly News & Updates


    In This Issue  
    • We need IHP session leads
    • Back to school advice from a Markham FHT physician and a teacher
    • Reminder- 211 Ontario webinar Thursday, August 20- register now
    • Members’ stories
    • OTF Youth Opportunities Fund grant opportunity
    • Updated testing guidance and more
    • Registration open for Project ECHO Ontario Bariatric Network (OBN) Fall series
    • Ontario Health services to enhance medical capacity in Long-Term Care and Retirement Homes
    • Upcoming events including governing through COVID-19 and more

    We need IHP session leads

    Planning is on track for the AFHTO 2020 Conference and this includes the sessions for interprofessional healthcare providers! There will be a virtual group session on Wednesday, October 7, from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m., and it will be followed by the IHP break-out sessions from 1:30 to 2:30.

    We’re looking for volunteers to lead the popular break-out sessions by coordinating topics, presenters, and a moderator.

    Leads are needed for the following professions: health promoter, nurse practitioner, physiotherapist, psychologist, nurses, administrative staff and physician assistants.

    These one-hour sessions between peers need a lead to happen. If you’re interested, please contact Beth MacKinnon today. The lead will receive a $20 discount on their conference fee.


    helping your family prepare for return to school

     

    Back to school advice from a Markham FHT physician and a teacher

    Markham FHT ‘s Dr. Dana Abenstein and her husband Darren Abenstein, a teacher, created a resource to help families prepare their kids to return to school during the pandemic. We shared this on social media last week and it reached over 5800 on Facebook.

     

     


    Reminder- 211 Ontario webinar Thursday, August 20- register now

    211 Ontario: Connecting Patients to Community Programs and Services webinar shows how 211 can assist primary care teams. It will provide some baseline information about 211’s Accredited enquiry service and Standards driven resource database of benefit to patients when trying to access services in the community – particularly services during COVID-19, such as mental health services, food and other basic needs. Register here.


    Two Essex County NPLC staff show some of the devices to be used in the lending program

     

    Members’ stories

    Essex County NPLC: receives COVID-19 Emergency Support for Community Organizations grant to improve access to technology and enhanced digital services

    Georgina NPLC: Georgina NPLC’s COVID-19 testing drive-thru tests over 130 residents as negative

     

     

     


    Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Youth Opportunities Fund grant opportunity

    Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Youth Opportunities Fund has announced the deadlines for grant streams that aim to support projects improving the wellbeing of children, youth, and families facing systemic barriers. AFHTO members, especially Indigenous teams, and partners may be eligible for the System Innovations Stream.

    • Grant Amount: Up to $250,000 per year
    • Grant Term: 2 to 6 years
    • Organization Registration Deadline: September 16, 2020
    • Grant Application Deadline: October 14, 2020

    Find out more here.


    Updated testing guidance and more

    Several updates have been released within the last week including:

    We continue to update several pages on our site with resources and news:


    Project ECHO Ontario Bariatric Network

     

    Registration open for Project ECHO Ontario Bariatric Network (OBN) Fall series

    Update your knowledge of post-bariatric care and the management of patients living with obesity by joining other primary care providers and a multi-disciplinary team of specialist from the Bariatric Centres of Excellence. For more information and to register visit their site.

     

     


    Ontario Health services to enhance medical capacity in Long-Term Care and Retirement Homes

    For anyone who also works in either long-term care or retirement homes, Ontario Health provides:
    1. LTC & RH Consult Line:   

    • For primary care physicians, nurse practitioners and medical directors in LTC and RH
    • Provides 24/7 access to general internal medicine specialists via a telephone consult line for urgent medical issues
    • The PCP/NP/Medical Director can call 1-8338-2HELPU to reach a specialist on-call  
    • For general inquiries or questions about this service email:  ltcrh.consult@wchospital.ca

    2.    VirtualCare App:   

    • For primary care physicians in LTC to remotely connect with clinical staff and residents
    • This service supports virtual video-enabled visits/medical assessments via laptop or tablet
    • Fully integrated with PointClickCare and MED e-care EHRs  
    • Watch a demo:  https://vimeo.com/415554798
    • Start onboarding today or let us know if you need further implementation assistance to complete your onboarding:   Contact info@ontariohealth.ca  or  call 1-877-302-1861

    These services continue to be available at no cost to homes and are accessible until October 31, 2020. Organizations with access to similar programs in their region (e.g. The LTC+ program in Toronto) are encouraged to continue to use those programs.


    Governing through COVID-19 and Beyond, August 25, 2020

    Webinar on governance at this time of   uncertainty and change. Topics include resumption of services; what governors  should know about Ontario Health Teams; and where we  can go from here to continue to strengthen organizational governance practices and prioritize board efforts. Register today!


    OTLCA Conference Call for Abstracts, August 21, 2020

    Submit your abstracts around the theme: Long Term Care 2020: Reimagining Change in Unprecedented Times being held virtually on October 26 and 27, 2020. Submit your abstract.


    Approaches to Health Care Consent, Advance Care Planning & Goals of Care Conversations, August 27- September 17, 2020

    Four-part webinar series from Hospice Palliative Care Ontario for front line workers, health care/service providers and first responders. Find out more and register here.


    COVID-19 and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Ethics, September 1, 2020

    Join this final webinar in this COVID-19 and IDD series hosted by the University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine. They will address ethical questions and issues that have emerged in health care and support of people with IDD.
    Learn more here.


    Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) – tool demonstration, Sep. 15

    The Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) is an evidence-based clinical decision support system developed to improve your ability to deliver best care for patients with asthma. Find out more here.


    ECHO Care of the Elderly, September 9 – December 16, 2020

    ECHO Care of the elderly community is now live for registration. Be ready to discuss dementia, responsive behaviors, frailty, pain, polypharmacy, medical cannabis and more this fall.
    Learn more here.

  • Bits & Pieces: ED mentorship, $83 million in grants, IHP sessions & more

    Bits & Pieces: ED mentorship, $83 million in grants, IHP sessions & more

    Your Weekly News & Updates


    In This Issue  
    • Reminder- ED Mentorship Program
    • Ontario Trillium Foundation redirecting $83 million in grants
    • IHP session leads needed for AFHTO 2020 conference
    • Primary care patient/client virtual care experience survey
    • New Chief Executive Officer for Indigenous Primary Health Care Council
    • Reminder-COVID-19 ED interviews end soon
    • Updated COVID case definition, symptoms, guidance and more
    • Hospice Palliative Care Ontario tools mailed to teams
    • Invitation for primary care sites to collaborate on a research study on chronic low back pain
    • Upcoming events regarding 211 Ontario – connecting patients to community programs and services and more

     


    Reminder- ED Mentorship Program

    We are looking for EDs from different regions and working/funding models to join our ED Mentorship Program as mentors!
     
    Mentoring is about supporting people to develop their leadership skills. It’s a relationship based on trust that is designed to help a mentee take on increasing initiative, build confidence, and excel as leaders. New EDs can learn from others who have experience and who are willing to help them in developing their skills and expanding their knowledge.

    If you are interested in becoming a mentor, please complete this survey and we will be in touch. More information is here.


    Ontario Trillium Foundation redirecting $83 million in grants

    The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) will be redirecting $83 million from its Capital and Grow granting streams to support Ontario nonprofits through the Resilient Communities Fund. This is to support rebuilding the capacity of eligible non-profit organizations that have been impacted by COVID-19. Relevant details include:

    • Two intake deadlines: September 2 and December 2, 2020
    • Grants are for one year, starting from $5,000 to $150,000

    AFHTO members and partners may be eligible to apply. Find out if you’re eligible here.


    IHP session leads needed for AFHTO 2020 conference

    Planning is on track for the AFHTO 2020 Conference and this includes the sessions for interprofessional healthcare providers! There will be a virtual group session on Wednesday, October 7, from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m., and it will be followed by the IHP break-out sessions from 1:30 to 2:30.

    We’re looking for volunteers to lead the popular break-out sessions by coordinating topics, presenters, and a moderator. Leads are needed for the following professions: dietitians, health promoters, nurse practitioners, occupational therapists, psychologists, nurses, respiratory therapists, social workers, administrative staff, physician assistants, and chiropodists.

    These one-hour sessions between peers need a lead to happen. If you’re interested, please contact Beth MacKinnon by Tuesday, August 18, 2020. The lead will receive a $20 discount on their conference fee.


    Primary Care Patient/Client Virtual Care Experience Survey

    Primary care patient/client virtual care experience survey

    The rapid adoption of virtual care during the pandemic not only addresses the current needs but it will most likely shape the future of primary care delivery, beyond the pandemic. As a result, we formed a working group with a number of patients, primary care, health system and health research organizations to create the Primary Care Patient/Client Virtual Care Experience Survey.

    This is to help fill informational gaps to inform future planning and further support the implementation of virtual care in primary care. Different tools, guides and templates are available to help. This is a public survey which non-members can use as well, so feel free to share with your peers. Visit our site to find out more.

     


    New Chief Executive Officer for Indigenous Primary Health Care Council

     

    New Chief Executive Officer for Indigenous Primary Health Care Council

    Congratulations to Caroline Lidstone-Jones who has been appointed as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the Indigenous Primary Health Care Council (IPHCC) effective September 1, 2020. Learn more here.

     

     

     


    Reminder: COVID-19 ED interviews end soon

    AFHTO, in partnership with the University of Toronto and Queen’s University, wants to understand the initiatives your team has taken on to continue to provide comprehensive primary care during this pandemic. Visit our site to fill out the Doodle poll to schedule your participation.


    Updated COVID case definition, symptoms, guidance and more

    Several documents have been updated and shared to the Ministry’s website as of Aug. 6 including:

    We continue to update several pages on our site with resources and news:


    Hospice Palliative Care Ontario tools mailed to teams

    Advance Care Planning, Goals of Care and health care decision making conversations are becoming more prevalent and more important than ever, with the aging population and COVID-19. Tools to help you and your patients have been mailed to your team either in March or July. You can use them in your waiting room and directly with your patients. Everything you, your patients and families need can also be found at SpeakUpOntario.ca   

    HPCO would like your feedback on whether you are getting more requests from patients to talk about health care decision making, if you found these resources useful, or if you’re looking to receive more resources. Please feel free to reach out to them at nav.dhillon@hpco.ca.


    Invitation for primary care sites to collaborate on a research study on chronic low back pain

    A PhD student at Queen’s University is looking for primary care sites to collaborate on his research on team-based primary care for the management of chronic low back pain. He is looking for them to participate in a virtual focus group (via Zoom) to understand their experiences. There is also the opportunity to assist with patient recruitment to participate in telephone interviews to understand their experiences with access. If you would like to learn more, please email Kyle at kyle.vader@queensu.ca and he can provide you with more information about how to get involved in this research.


    211 Ontario – connecting patients to community programs and services, August 20

    This webinar shows how 211 can assist primary care teams. It will provide some baseline information about 211’s Accredited enquiry service and Standards driven resource database of benefit to patients when trying to access services in the community – particularly services during COVID-19, such as mental health services, food and other basic needs. Register here.


    Governing through COVID-19 and Beyond, August 25, 2020

    Webinar on governance at this time of   uncertainty and change. Topics include resumption of services; what governors  should know about Ontario Health Teams; and where we  can go from here to continue to strengthen organizational governance practices and prioritize board efforts. Register today!


    The Lung Health Foundation Events

    Medicinal Cannabis – Treating Symptoms of Lung Cancer, August 17, 2020
    Learn more about the endocannabinoid system and apply to your practice. Find out more here.

    Medicinal Cannabis in Chronic Pain, August 24, 2020
    Enhance your knowledge by better understanding how to access medical cannabis. Learn more here.


    Child and Youth Mental Health Webinar Series for Primary Care Providers – Supporting Families With Screentime During COVID, August 19 & 26, 2020

    The CHEO is holding a 2-part webinar series that will cover on-demand topics around the use of technology by youth. Find out more here.


    ECHO Ontario Mental Health – Fall Programs, September 2020 – June 2021
    Join Project ECHO for any of their 6 mental health programs being offered this fall. Topics include addictions, DBT, Trans healthcare, OCD and IDD. View the offerings here.


    Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) – tool demonstration, Sep. 15

    The Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) is an evidence-based clinical decision support system developed to improve your ability to deliver best care for patients with asthma.

    The system can be used by any provider and is fully integrated with OSCAR EMR and Telus PS EMR. Find out more here.

  • QI in Action eBulletin #99: Capturing Primary Care’s Response to COVID-19

    QI in Action eBulletin #99: Capturing Primary Care’s Response to COVID-19

    In this Issue:

    • Primary Care Patient/Client Experience Virtual Care Survey
    • Responding to COVID-19: Understanding How Primary Care Teams Stepped up to Help Support Their Communities and Patients
    • IHP Experience During the Early Phase of COVID-19
    • Upcoming Virtual Events

    Primary Care Patient/Client Virtual Care Experience Survey

    Primary Care Patient/Client Virtual Care Experience Survey

     

    The rapid adoption of virtual care during the pandemic not only addresses the current needs but it will most likely shape the future of primary care delivery, beyond the pandemic.

    As a result, the Association of Family Health Teams of Ontario (AFHTO) formed a working group with a number of primary care, health system and health research organizations to measure the patient/client experience with virtual care during the COVID-19 pandemic. These organizations included: Quality Improvement in Primary Care Council (QI in PC Council), Women’s College Hospital Institute for Health System Solutions and Virtual Care (WIHV), eHealth Centre of Excellence (eCE), Ontario Health (Quality) (OH(Q)), and Partnering for Quality.

    We created the Primary Care Patient/Client Virtual Care Experience Survey to help fill informational gaps to inform future planning and further support the implementation of virtual care in primary care. This survey can also be used for quality improvement purposes to allow providers to look at ways to improve their care delivery.

    For online surveys, a template survey for Microsoft Forms has been created that can be duplicated. If you will be using SurveyMonkey, please email Sandeep.gill@afhto.ca and a copy of the survey will be shared with you.

    Ocean (CognisantMD) is offering a free platform to patient experience data; however, please refer to this guide  to ensure that you have completed all the steps to qualify. For your convenience, eCE has created an Ocean eForm version of the survey, now available to be imported to your Ocean (CognisantMD) site. Instructions on how to import and configure the survey and data extraction can be found here.

    We also highly recommend you report back to AFHTO to support AFHTO’s Provincial Initiative. To further support practices in expanding and solidifying virtual care in primary health at a provincial-level, AFHTO will be collecting the practice-level aggregate responses to the survey. Please click here to find more information.

    Responding to COVID-19: Understanding How Primary Care Teams Stepped up to Help Support Their Communities and Patients
    Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve heard countless stories of our teams’ commitment, diligence and initiative to continue providing team-based primary care around the province. We’re here to ensure that your hard work gets noticed – but to do so, we need your help.

    AFHTO in collaboration with Dr. Rachelle Ashcroft and Dr. Catherine Donnelly are conducting a research study to capture the efforts of all our members to ensure no story is left untold. This information will help influence and shape how teams will continue to adapt virtual care after the pandemic, as well as to meet patient needs.

    Interviews end August 14- don’t miss your chance to participate! Please sign up for a 30-minute interview to share your team’s story.

    IHP Experience During the Early Phase of COVID-19
    At the beginning of pandemic Dr. Catherine Donnelly and Dr. Rachelle Ashcroft created a survey to capture the interprofessional health provider (IHP) experience as the transition to virtual care began. The objective of the study was to describe the state of IHP practice within primary care teams during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Some of the preliminary findings of the study were that 48% of IHPs felt that teamwork collaboration increased during the pandemic, 18% of IHPs felt that it remained the same whereas 34% felt it decreased.

    Most of the IHPs delivered care to patients via phone. Before the pandemic this was the most popular mechanism of virtual care delivery. As the pandemic progressed and teams explored creative ways to outreach to patients, teams started to explore social media. The preliminary findings of this survey are that IHPs are the least confident with patient care delivery via social media compared to other virtual care options and in-person care.

    As the pandemic evolves so does the expertise of providers with virtual care. Dr. Catherine Donnelly and Dr. Rachelle Ashcroft will release another survey to capture the IHP experience at multiple time points. Stay tuned for the next survey!

    Upcoming Virtual Events
    211 Ontario – Connecting Patients to Community Programs and Services Webinar
    Thursday August 20, 2020 – 12:00 – 1:00 pm EDT
    A webinar about how 211 can assist Family Health Teams. 211 has been helping the people of Ontario navigate community, health, and social services for many years. Learn more about 211 Ontario by registering here.

    Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) – Tool Demonstration Webinar
    Tuesday September 15, 2020 – 12:00 – 1:00 pm EDT
    The Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) is an evidence-based clinical decision support system developed to improve your ability to deliver best care for patients with asthma. Learn more about the tool by registering here.

    AFHTO 2020 Conference Tectonic shifts: rebuilding primary care in a new world
    Thursday, October 8, 2020 – Friday, October 9, 2020
    Before 2020, anyone with experience in Ontario’s healthcare system thought they knew what change meant. Now such changes seem almost a lifetime ago. COVID-19 has shifted our priorities with a focus on how to support our patients and our teams in new ways of delivering care.

    Primary care has risen to the challenge, but the ground is still shifting, and the future is uncertain. In short, we need to rebuild primary care for this new world. Registration to open soon. Learn more here.

     

    In Case You Missed It: Check out eBulletin #98 or other back issues here!
    Questions? Comments? Contact us at improve@afhto.ca.

     

  • Bits & Pieces: COVID Alert app, governing through COVID-19 & more

    Bits & Pieces: COVID Alert app, governing through COVID-19 & more

    Your Weekly News & Updates


    In This Issue  
    • The COVID Alert app is now available!
    • “Governing through COVID-19 and Beyond” – Register now for the next governance webinar!
    • Reminder-COVID-19 ED interviews end soon
    • AFHTO Letter to the OMA Negotiations Committee
    • AFHTO 2020 Conference: did you get your confirmation?
    • 211 Ontario – connecting patients to community programs and services, August 20
    • Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) – tool demonstration, Sep. 15
    • Join AFHTO’s IHP Advisory Council – Deadline extended to this Friday, August 7!
    • New quality standards- chronic pain and early pregnancy complications and loss
    • Social work student practicums in FHTs
    • Upcoming events regarding OHT restart and more

    The COVID Alert app is now available!

    This new made-in-Ontario, privacy-first app lets you know if you may have been exposed to COVID-19. To do so, it relies on people voluntarily installing it and telling it if they test positive. The app can then send a message to other app users who have been in close contact with that person over the previous two weeks.

    Everyone is encouraged to download and use the app to help protect themselves and those in their community. We encourage you share this information with your colleagues, family, friends, neighbours, and patients. More information and resources to help you do so are here.


    Reminder: COVID-19 ED interviews end soon
    AFHTO, in partnership with the University of Toronto and Queen’s University, wants to understand the initiatives your team has taken on to continue to provide comprehensive primary care during this pandemic. Interviews end August 14.

    Visit our site to fill out the Doodle poll to schedule your participation.


    “Governing through COVID-19 and Beyond” – Register now for the next governance webinar!

    Join us on Tuesday, August 25, from 12- 2 p.m. for a webinar on governance at this time of uncertainty and change. We will be joined by several speakers who will provide guidance and advice to board members on resumption of services; what governors should know about Ontario Health Teams; and where we  can go from here to continue to strengthen organizational governance practices and prioritize board efforts. There will be time for questions.

    While this webinar is targeted for boards, EDs and staff are welcome to join. Register today!

     


    AFHTO Letter to the OMA Negotiations Committee

    Last week AFHTO provided feedback to the OMA Negotiations Committee on the upcoming Physician Services Agreement based on dialogue with some of our physician leaders. Recommendations include:

    1. Increased access to capitated models of PEMs while also increasing access to team-based care
    2. Permanent billing codes for virtual care and investments in electronic medical record integration
    3. Investment and recognition of clinical leadership while also supporting the organization of primary care

    To learn more, read the full letter.


    AFHTO 2020 Conference logo-cropped

    AFHTO 2020 Conference: did you get your confirmation?

    If you are part of a group that has prepared a submission, please ensure your group contact has received the email with the subject: “Thank you for your AFHTO 2020 Conference Submission!(Please have them check their junk mail as well.)

    If your contact person has NOT received this confirmation, please contact info@afhto.ca by tomorrow, August 5.


    211 Ontario – connecting patients to community programs and services, August 20

    Co-hosted by AFHTO, this webinar shows how 211 can assist primary care teams. This webinar will provide some baseline information about 211’s Accredited enquiry service and Standards driven resource database of benefit to patients when trying to access services in the community – particularly services during COVID-19, such as mental health services, food and other basic needs. Register here.


    Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) – tool demonstration, Sep. 15

    The Electronic Asthma Management System (eAMS) is an evidence-based clinical decision support system developed to improve your ability to deliver best care for patients with asthma.

    The system can be used by any provider and is fully integrated with OSCAR EMR and Telus PS EMR. Find out more here.


    Join AFHTO’s IHP Advisory Council – Deadline extended to this Friday, August 7!

    Are you interested in advising AFHTO on the top issues facing IHPs in team-based care? Would you like to be a leader in working with IHPs in primary care to advocate for and speak to the critical role of teams? Would you like to share and spread knowledge and learnings?

    If yes, AFHTO invites you to apply to join the IHP Advisory Council! We have extended the deadline to apply to this Friday, August 7.

    We are eagerly looking to collaborate with the next IHP leaders to further interprofessional team-based primary care in Ontario. Please consider applying to join us.

    More information on the council is here. If you have any questions, please contact Beth MacKinnon at beth.mackinnon@afhto.ca.


    New quality standards- chronic pain and early pregnancy complications and loss
    Ontario Health (Quality) has released two new quality standards:

    For more information please contact OH-HQO_QualityStandards@ontariohealth.ca.


    Resumption of services guidance, FAQ and more

    Resources released within the past week include:

    We continue to update several pages on our site with resources and news:


    Social work student practicums in FHTs

    The role of social work in Family Health Teams (FHT) in Ontario is critical for the success of patient outcomes. FHTs provide a rich environment for social work students to prepare for their professional careers. University of Toronto is reaching out to ask if you would consider including a social work practicum at your FHT.

    In addition to the regular benefits, there is increased flexibility this year:

    • Practicums can be virtual or in-person
    • Virtual practicums have the benefit of taking place anywhere in Ontario.
    • Time requirements for the 2020-21 academic year can range between 337.5 hours (48.2 days) and 518 hours (74 days).
    • Wednesday, Thursday, Friday remain practicum days. Flexibility is possible, depending on the individual start dates (see note below).  Student orientation may dictate a confirmed start date.
    • Other benefits to field instructors can be found here

    They completely understand that any commitment made will be contingent on capacity to provide supervision in these unusual times. If you wish to learn more about social work practicums, please email Eileen McKee at e.mckee@utoronto.ca or Rachelle Ashcroft at rachelle.ashcroft@utoronto.ca or please see their website for more information.

    If you are able to contribute to the education of an MSW student between now and April 2021, please contact practicum.fsw@utoronto.ca.

     


    Ontario Health Implementation Restart, August 6, 2020

    On August 6, Miller Thomson LLP is holding a complimentary webinar that will cover the recap status of OHTs, update on the new application process, requirements for collaborative decision making and action items for OHTs for each stage of development. Learn more and register here.


    Addressing Caregiver Burnout: Finding and Accessing Supports, August 5 – 19, 2020

    Join the HPCO in this 3-part series while they address burnout by healthcare providers and caregivers. Learn more here.


    Child And Youth Mental Health Morning Rounds And Lunch & Learns, August 11-27, 2020

    The CHEO is holding 4 sessions covering depression in adolescents, anxiety in toddlers and younger children, parent-child relationships and anxiety in adolescents. Find out more here.


    ECHO Concussion Series, September 9 – December 16, 2020

    Don’t miss this free 15-part series this fall on diagnosing and managing your concussion patients. Find out more here.