Ultimate Blogging Championship

Tag: government

  • Bits & Pieces: memo to primary care from OH and more

    Bits & Pieces: memo to primary care from OH and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Memos to primary care, on operational direction and more
    • Health ministers’ meeting in Vancouver
    • Reminder- Supporting Caregivers Supports Patients- The Critical Role of Primary Care in Preventing Caregiver Burnout, Nov. 24
    • Virtual concussion occupational therapy services for teams
    • Moving towards an integrated health data ecosystem & QIP update
    • OLTCA convention call for content
    • Nominate high performing early career family physicians
    • IPHCC & PHAC seeking participants for short videos
    • Upcoming events including Evaluating program planning using an equity framework and more

     

    Memos to primary care, on operational direction and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates– the original page, with news and updates. You can find links to related pages here as well.

    Health ministers’ meeting in Vancouver

    screenshot of AFHTO news release

    “Mr. Duclos … added the federal government is also prepared to make bilateral agreements with provinces and territories on issues of shared priorities, such as increased access to family health teams and mental-health services.” Full article here.

    As the provincial and territorial health ministers gather in Vancouver to meet with the federal Minister of Health, the Hon. Jean-Yves Duclos, AFHTO remains hopeful that all parties share his priority of increasing access to primary care teams and that we will see much needed funding flow to the province through the Canada Health Transfer.

    Please read AFHTO’s statement here. 

    OCO webinar flyer

     

     

    Reminder – Supporting Caregivers Supports Patients- The Critical Role of Primary Care in Preventing Caregiver Burnout, Nov. 24

    Primary care providers can play a key role in preventing burnout and enhancing caregiver well-being by initiating early interventions and connecting caregivers to support.

    Co-hosted by The Ontario Caregiver Organization and the Primary Care Collaborative, this webinar will include insights from a caregiver with lived experience, as well as examples of primary care initiatives across Ontario that are connecting caregivers to support. Register here.

     

     

    Virtual concussion occupational therapy services for teams

    The Neurology Centre of Toronto (NCT) has developed a concussion rehabilitation program that has been implemented and proven successful with an existing FHT in Ontario. The program provides patients with access to virtual concussion occupational therapy services and has been running successfully since March 2022.

    The patients in this program wouldn’t have access to this care otherwise, and the program has generated very positive feedback and results. Specifically, when surveyed after completing this program:

    • 33% of patients demonstrated an improvement in daily activity tolerance
    • 67% of patients demonstrated an improvement in their symptom scores, and
    • 83% reported satisfaction with the program.

    NCT would like to extend this service to other teams (including NPLCs and CHCs) in need of concussion rehabilitation services to support their patients. Please contact Jenni Diamond, Occupational Therapist and Program Director, to discuss the details and how it may fit within your team: jenni.diamond@numinus.com.

    Moving towards an integrated health data ecosystem & QIP update

    OLTCA convention call for content

    Taking place March 27-29, the Ontario Long Term Care Association (OLTCA) in partnership with the Ontario Retirement Communities Association (ORCA) are hosting the Together We Care 2023 Convention in person. The TWC Call for Content is now accepting abstracts. For a full list of program streams and to submit an abstract, please visit their site. Deadline November 21, 2022, at 4:00 pm EST.

    Nominate high performing early career family physicians

    Dr. Monica Aggarwal at the University of Toronto is conducting a study that will identify the key capabilities and competencies of high-performing family medicine graduates. This will help inform how learning, teaching and assessment can be improved in family medicine residency programs in Canada.

    She’s looking for nominations for high-performing early-career family physicians (based on the criteria identified here). If you have a nominee, please contact monica.aggarwal@utoronto.ca.

    IPHCC & PHAC seeking participants for short videos

    The Indigenous Primary Health Care Council is looking for both health care staff as well as general population participants for the creation of short videos.

    Created in collaboration with the Public Health Agency of Canada, the videos aim to increase knowledge about the importance of vaccination, build vaccine confidence, and address barriers to accessing vaccination services. An honorarium will be provided. Please see the flyer for more information.

    ONCA A Year Later: the 100 Most Asked Questions, Nov. 10, 2022
    Hosted by Community Legal Education Ontario, who have compiled the most frequently asked questions into a database and want to share what they have learned. Register here.

    Infection Prevention & Control in Primary Care, Nov. 23, 2022
    Hosted by Hamilton FHT and Public Health Ontario. Find out more here.

    Evaluating program planning using an equity framework, Nov. 23, 2022
    To plan for an expansion of healthcare services in newly developed neighbourhoods, a planning initiative was conducted to better understand the needs of the population. Ensuring equity of care was identified as a priority for this initiative.

    CCHL Forum webinar featuring speakers from Ontario Health, North York FHT and Queen Square FHT. Register here.

    Highlights and implications of the Ontario Science Table’s brief on primary care, Nov. 30

    On October 3, 2022, the Ontario COVID-19 Science Advisory Table (OST) released its final brief, a 3-part exploration of how primary care responded to and was affected by the pandemic, and implications for ongoing health system planning and policy. In this webinar, you will hear from a panel of primary healthcare experts who contributed to that brief, as they share some of the most significant findings and implications. Register here.

    Climate Conscious Inhaler Prescribing, Dec. 8

    Metered dose inhalers produce significant carbon emissions. Ironically, these contribute to changes to the climate that can exacerbate respiratory conditions. Simple practice changes can help disrupt this cycle and lessen the health sector’s contributions to climate change.

    Register here.

  • Bits & Pieces: preventing caregiver burnout and more

    Bits & Pieces: preventing caregiver burnout and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Supporting Caregivers Supports Patients- The Critical Role of Primary Care in Preventing Caregiver Burnout, Nov. 24
    • Climate Conscious Inhaler Prescribing, Dec. 8
    • MOH booster communications toolkit and more
    • TUTOR-PHC call for applications
    • Seeking input on how to improve person-centred osteoarthritis care
    • Upcoming events including ONCA A Year Later: the 100 Most Asked Questions and more

    Supporting Caregivers Supports Patients- The Critical Role of Primary Care in Preventing Caregiver Burnout, Nov. 24
    Primary care providers can play a key role in preventing burnout and enhancing caregiver well-being by initiating early interventions and connecting caregivers to support.

    Co-hosted by The Ontario Caregiver Organization and the Primary Care Collaborative, this webinar will include insights from a caregiver with lived experience, as well as examples of primary care initiatives across Ontario that are connecting caregivers to support. Register here.

    Climate Conscious Inhaler Prescribing, Dec. 8

    Metered dose inhalers produce significant carbon emissions. Ironically, these contribute to changes to the climate that can exacerbate respiratory conditions. Simple practice changes can help disrupt this cycle and lessen the health sector’s contributions to climate change.

    Learning outcomes:

    • Explore the carbon footprint of healthcare systems and how inhalers contribute to it
    • Examine two problems related to inhaler prescribing
    • Imagine practice change that results in immediate reduction in emissions: “high value, low carbon care”

    Register here.

    Graphic of purple vaccine vial, with another transparent vial behind it on a light blue background. below, text says

     

    MOH booster communications toolkit and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates– the original page, with news and updates. You can find links to related pages here as well.

     

    TUTOR-PHC call for applications

    Transdisciplinary Understanding and Training on Research – Primary Health Care (TUTOR-PHC), is a one-year, pan-Canadian interdisciplinary research capacity building program that has been training primary and integrated health care researchers, clinicians and decision-makers from family medicine, nursing, psychology, epidemiology, social work, occupational therapy, education, policy, and many other disciplines since 2003.  The deadline to apply is December 5, 2022.

    For more information, please go to the website or email the TUTOR-PHC Project Coordinator at tutor@uwo.ca.

    Seeking input on how to improve person-centred osteoarthritis care

    Per UHN:
    “Dr. Anna Gagliardi at University Health Network (UHN) is recruiting healthcare professionals for a one-time 20-minute phone interview for a research study about how to improve person-centred osteoarthritis (OA) care. During the interview, we will ask you for your perspectives, experiences, and recommendations regarding strategies to improve care for immigrant women affected by osteoarthritis.

    You are eligible for this study if you:
    — Are a family physician, nurse practitioner, or community pharmacist who works with patients with osteoarthritis
    OR
    — Are a healthcare executive, healthcare manager, or policymaker who oversees osteoarthritis services

    For more information or to express interest in participating, please contact the study coordinator, Madeline Theodorlis, by email: madeline.theodorlis@uhn.ca. Please note that information sent by email may be accessible by external parties and therefore not entirely secure. Many thanks for your consideration.”

    Hamilton FHT Green Initiative’s Cancer Screening, Nov. 2 or 10, 2022

    Led by Dr. Meghan Davis, Ontario Health’s Regional Primary Care Lead (Cancer Screening). Find out more here.

    ONCA A Year Later: the 100 Most Asked Questions, Nov. 10, 2022
    Hosted by Community Legal Education Ontario, who have compiled the most frequently asked questions into a database and want to share what they have learned. Register here.

    Highlights and implications of the Ontario Science Table’s brief on primary care, Nov. 30

    On October 3, 2022, the Ontario COVID-19 Science Advisory Table (OST) released its final brief, a 3-part exploration of how primary care responded to and was affected by the pandemic, and implications for ongoing health system planning and policy. In this webinar, you will hear from a panel of primary healthcare experts who contributed to that brief, as they share some of the most significant findings and implications. Register here.

    MyPractice: Primary Care Report: Using Data for Improvement – a focus on using the opioid prescribing indicators to drive improvements in patient care, Nov. 10, 2022
    Ontario Health is hosting a webinar for primary care providers on using the opioid prescribing indicators in the MyPractice: Primary Care report to drive improvements in patient care. This 1-credit-per-hour Group Learning program has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1.0 Mainpro+Ⓡ credits. The program is part of a series that has been certified for up to 4 Mainpro+ credits. Register here.

    Hospice Palliative Care Ontario’s online learning portal for person centred decision making
    The Modules are intended for Clinician Competency Training on Health Care Consent, Advance Care Planning, and Goals of Care conversations. Learners will move beyond advancing their knowledge and attitudes to develop clinical skills. Learn more here.

  • Bits & Pieces: highlights and implications of the Ontario Science Table’s brief on primary care and more

    Bits & Pieces: highlights and implications of the Ontario Science Table’s brief on primary care and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Highlights and implications of the Ontario Science Table’s brief on primary care, Nov. 30
    • Respiratory Therapist Week
    • Wawa FHT unveils new artwork on journey of Truth and Reconciliation
    • Hybrid workspace resources
    • Quality standard on medication safety recorded webinar
    • Upcoming events including Managing Influenza-like Illness this Fall and more

     

    Highlights and implications of the Ontario Science Table’s brief on primary care, Nov. 30

    On October 3, 2022, the Ontario COVID-19 Science Advisory Table (OST) released its final brief, a 3-part exploration of how primary care responded to and was affected by the pandemic, and implications for ongoing health system planning and policy. In this webinar, you will hear from a panel of primary healthcare experts who contributed to that brief, as they share some of the most significant findings and implications.

    Panelists:

    • Dr. Imaan Bayoumi
    • Dr. Danielle Martin
    • Dr. Noah Ivers
    • Dr. Jennifer Rayner

    Bring your own breakfast! Register here.

    text- The CN Tower will be lit today to celebrate RRTs in Ontario! Check it out and tag us @rtso Come out and celebrate #rtweek2022! Image to the right- CN tower lit in orange and purple

    Respiratory Therapist Week

    Thank you to all the respiratory therapists working in primary care teams, helping your patients breathe that much easier. RTSO is lighting Ontario landmarks this week in recognition. #RTWeek2022

     

     

    The artist Zoey Wood-Salomon stands to the right of her piece, a turtle with people on the circumference of its shell

     

     

    Wawa FHT unveils new artwork on journey of Truth and Reconciliation
    On September 21, 2022, at Naturally Superior Adventures, Wawa FHT celebrated the unveiling of the clinic’s new painting. Learn more here.

     

     

     

     

     

    Hybrid workspace resources

    Resources shared by the Knowledge Institute on Child and Youth Mental Health and Addictions:

    Quality standard on medication safety recorded webinar

    Ontario Health and the Ontario College of Pharmacists co-hosted a webinar, “Introduction to the Medication Safety Quality Standard and the Assurance and Improvement of Medication Safety Program” on October 19, 2022. The session introduced OH’s recently released quality standard on medication safety and described how it can be used to drive quality improvement and improve care for people in Ontario throughout the health care system. The session also discussed how the Assurance and Improvement in Medication Safety (AIMS) program supports a culture of medication safety.

    The recorded webinar can be accessed by clicking here (passcode: OHOCP2022!).

    Helpful strategies to address mental health in children, Oct. 26, 2022

    Part of OCFP’s Practising Well COP. Find out more here.

    Managing Influenza-like Illness this Fall, Oct. 28, 2022

    51st in the series “Changing the way we work” on Friday, October 28, 2022, at 7:55-9:00 am. They’ll discuss how we can prepare for an anticipated increase in COVID, influenza, and other viral illnesses in the coming months. Hosted by OCFP & UofT. Register here.

    Guidance for Clinically Appropriate Use of Virtual Care, Nov. 9, 2022
    Join Dr. David Kaplan and Dr. Risa Bordman from the Primary Care Expert Panel – Guidance for Clinically Appropriate Use of Virtual Care, as they present the third of a 3-part series on the Guidance for Clinically Appropriate Use of Virtual Care.  This webinar is part of the Primary Care and COVID-19 Support CoP Monthly Series. Register in advance.

    OPHA 2022 Fall Forum, Nov. 8-9, 2022
    The Next Chapter: Building Upon Our Capacity and Resilience in Community and Public Health. Find out more here.

    Data To Action: Making Your Data Visible and Useful, Nov. 30, 2022
    Webinar on data visualization by TechSoup Connect Ontario Chapter. Register here.

    2023/24 cQIP Information Session, Nov. 23, 2022
    Hosted by Ontario Health, this will focus on the development and planning of collaborative Quality Improvement Plans (cQIPs) for FY 2023-24. Register here.

  • Bits & Pieces: strengthening mental healthcare delivery and more

    Bits & Pieces: strengthening mental healthcare delivery and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Strengthening mental healthcare delivery in primary care
    • October is Occupational Therapy Month
    • IPHCC Wise Practices Guide
    • OurCare national survey deadline extended to Oct. 25
    • Ontarians aged 12+ eligible for bivalent booster and more
    • Wound care champion program
    • Call for papers: International Conference on Integrated Care
    • Health Canada recorded webinar: exceptions to the prescription drug list
    • Upcoming events including social prescribing and more

    Strengthening mental healthcare delivery in primary care

    The OMA and the Primary Care Collaborative have released a joint policy paper with recommendations to strengthen mental healthcare delivery in primary care.

    The rate of new mental health and addiction diagnoses is increasing, exacerbated by the ongoing impacts of the pandemic. Approximately three-quarters of Canadians rely on their primary care provider to address their mental health needs, but there are longstanding system gaps that must be addressed to enhance the ability of primary care doctors to deliver mental health care. Read more here.

    Text in the middle of intertwined rope of different colours forming a heart. I 'heart' OT. October is #OTmonth in Canada

    October is Occupational Therapy Month

    Thank you to all the occupational therapists working in primary care teams, aiding patients’ mental health, and providing opportunities for seniors to age in place.

     

    Cover with IPHCC and SOAHAC logos at top. Below pictures of indigenous women, an inukshuk, smudging materials and a totem pole

     

     

    IPHCC Wise Practices Guide
    IPHCC has launched a guide titled Protocols for non-Indigenous health care organizations seeking to work with Indigenous Knowledge Keepers. As an expanded component of the Improving Indigenous Outcomes project, this Wise Practices Guide was developed to highlight how non-Indigenous partner organizations can safely and respectfully engage with Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers. Find out more here.

     

     

     

     

    OurCare national survey deadline extended to Oct. 25

    Dr. Tara Kiran, a researcher from MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions (Unity Health Toronto), and St. Michael’s Hospital Academic FHT physician, is leading an important project on the future of primary care. As part of the project, she is conducting a research survey to hear from people across Canada about their experiences and priorities. Study findings will be shared with policymakers and used to shape a blueprint for the future of primary care in Canada.

    Help the study team hear from as many people as possible. Use these materials to encourage patients and the public to take the 15-minute research survey. Deadline extended to Oct. 25.

    Ontarians aged 12+ eligible for bivalent booster and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Wound care champion program

    To help address the rising incidence of acute and hard-to-heal wounds, Wounds Canada and the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) are launching the Wound Care Champion Program (WCCP), designed to deliver evidence-informed, interdisciplinary novice-to-proficient level wound education to front-line clinicians. Two hundred spots in Ontario are being sponsored by the Ministry of Health for regulated health-care professionals in the home and community care sectors. Deadline Dec. 16.

    Call for papers: International Conference on Integrated Care

    The 23rd International Conference on Integrated Care (ICIC23) will take place in Flanders from 22-24 May 2023. They are accepting paper submissions on research, policy, practice or education and specifically related to the Conference Themes and the 9 Pillars of Integrated Care until Monday, 31 October. For more information visit www.integratedcarefoundation.org/ICIC23.

    Health Canada recorded webinar: exceptions to the prescription drug list

    Health Canada has a recorded webinar about the initial information-gathering consultation on exceptions to the Prescription Drug List. The consultation was launched on July 28 and will close on November 29, 2022.This recorded webinar provides information on how to submit your consultation feedback. You can access it here.

    Heath Canada would appreciate your feedback about which existing exceptions are still needed and why, as well as any possible impacts that could occur if drugs that are currently considered exceptions were to be added to the Prescription Drug List. You can access the consultation here.

    This work aims to ensure that exceptions to the Prescription Drug List meet the needs of patients, caregivers, and the modern health care system. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact policy_bureau_enquiries@hc-sc.gc.ca.

    Community of Practice: Infection Prevention and Control in Primary Care, Oct. 4- 31, 2022

    Quarterly (CoP) meetings hosted by Public Health Ontario to support Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) programs in Primary Care settings.  

    Sessions will be held on several dates and times for different regions. Find out more here.

    Social Prescribing Conference: Current Practices & Community Conversations, Oct. 20, 2022
    Virtual conference hosted by the Alliance. Find out more here.

    HPV-related Cancer and Disease Prevention, Oct. 20, 2022
    Speaker: Dr. Vivien Brown MDCM, CCFP, FCFP, NCMP. Hosted by Merck. Register here.

    Practical Evidence for Informed Practice, Oct. 21-22, 2022
    Family medicine rapid fire conference. Find out more here.

    OPHA 2022 Fall Forum, Nov. 8-9, 2022
    The Next Chapter: Building Upon Our Capacity and Resilience in Community and Public Health. Find out more here.

    Internal Workplace Investigation Training, Nov. 15 & 17
    Virtual training opportunity for managers, board members and executives, taught by employment lawyer Maria McDonald and independent investigator Cleo Noxon. Find out more.

  • Bits & Pieces: tomorrow #AFHTO2022 early bird deadline and more

    Bits & Pieces: tomorrow #AFHTO2022 early bird deadline and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Tomorrow is the #AFHTO2022 early bird deadline
    • AFHTO annual report featuring your stories
    • OurCare national survey launched
    • School immunization programs
    • Wellness check: dealing with transitions and managing stress materials
    • Bill 7 implementation memo and more
    • Reminder- UpToDate price changes coming in October
    • Next B&P after #AFHTO2022
    • Feedback requested on new quality standards – surgical site infections and eating disorder
    • Upcoming events including IPAC and more

     

    Tomorrow is the #AFHTO2022 early bird deadline

    AFHTO 2022 Conference logo- background is multicoloured streaks going towards an abstract event horizon

     

    After tomorrow, registration fees increase for both in-person and virtual.

    2021-2022 annual report with afhto logo. Title is reconnect & reimagine: moving forward together. The background colour is a yellow gradient and there are member submitted pictures.

     

     

    AFHTO annual report featuring your stories

    We released our 2022 annual report in the notice for our annual general meeting sent to the triad yesterday. Read for a reflection on the ways primary care teams have continued to rise to current challenges and lead the way in future health and social care delivery.

     

     

     

     

    OurCare national survey launched

    Dr. Tara Kiran, a researcher from MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions (Unity Health Toronto), and St. Michael’s Hospital Academic FHT physician, is leading an important project on the future of primary care. As part of the project, she is conducting a research survey to hear from people across Canada about their experiences and priorities. Study findings will be shared with policymakers and used to shape a blueprint for the future of primary care in Canada.

    Help the study team hear from as many people as possible. Use these materials to encourage patients and the public to take the 15-minute research survey.

    School immunization programs

    Due to the pandemic, there have been disruptions to school-based vaccine programs in Ontario. The Ministry of Health put out a guidance document to communicate the extended eligibility for publicly funded vaccines for school-based programs and there are informational webinars coming up to learn more about the issue.

    Click here to register for upcoming events and to view resources regarding vaccines for school-aged children.

    Wellness check: dealing with transitions and managing stress materials

    We cohosted this webinar with CMHA on Sep. 15. Due to the sensitive and interactive nature, no recording is available, but you can access the worksheet and other resources here.

    Bill 7 implementation memo and more

    Recent updates include:

    • RE: Bill 7 Implementation to Support Ontario’s Plan to Stay Open: Health System Stability and Recovery- EN and FR– MLTC, MOH and OH, Sep. 14, 2022
    • Appendix: Summary of ALC Regulation Changes- EN and FR– Sep. 14, 2022
    • LTCH Admissions for ALC Patients Field Guidance for Placement Co-ordinators – EN and FR– Sep. 14, 2022

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

    Reminder- UpToDate price changes coming in October

    AFHTO members are able to save on an individual subscription to UpToDate® and optional add-on products. (*Savings on annual and longer subscriptions only and based on subscription type).

    WoltersKluwer has informed us a price increase will go into effect October 1 for members, so now would be a good time to subscribe.

    EDs and Admin leads, if you need additional information to access these discounts, please email info@afhto.ca.

    Next B&P after #AFHTO2022

    Staff will be busy preparing to welcome you to the conference next week, so the next newsletter will be sent Oct. 18-19, the week after the conference.

    Feedback requested on new quality standards – surgical site infections and eating disorder

    AFHTO 2022 Conference, Oct. 12, 2022

    Join your peers from across Ontario and beyond as we reconnect and reimagine, moving forward together.

    Members get more than 50% off registration. Register with your verification code here.

    Community of Practice: Infection Prevention and Control in Primary Care, Oct. 4- 31, 2022

    Quarterly (CoP) meetings hosted by Public Health Ontario to support Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) programs in Primary Care settings.  

    Sessions will be held on several dates and times for different regions. Find out more here.

    Trillium Primary Health Care Research Day, Oct. 14, 2022

    In-person at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Find out more here.

    Social Prescribing Conference: Current Practices & Community Conversations, Oct. 20, 2022
    Virtual conference hosted by the Alliance. Find out more here.

    Practical Evidence for Informed Practice, Oct. 21-22, 2022
    Family medicine rapid fire conference. Find out more here.

  • Bits & Pieces: UpToDate price change and more

    Bits & Pieces: UpToDate price change and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • UpToDate price changes coming in October
    • Welcome to Veronica Jiang
    • Member stories
    • #AFHTO2022 updates- ED networking sessions and more
    • Long COVID materials and more
    • WSIB health and safety rebates are available – and they’re doubled for 2022!
    • Ministry and Ontario Health updates- MH data and substance use treatment
    • Toronto Geriatrics Update Course, Nov. 4, 2022
    • Upcoming events including Indigenous Cultural Safety and more

    UpToDate price changes coming in October

    AFHTO members are able to save on an individual subscription to UpToDate® and optional add-on products. (*Savings on annual and longer subscriptions only and based on subscription type).

    WoltersKluwer has informed us a price increase will go into effect October 1 for members, so now would be a good time to subscribe.

    EDs and Admin leads, if you need additional information to access these discounts, please email info@afhto.ca.

    Veronica

    Welcome to Veronica Jiang

    We’re happy to introduce Veronica Jiang, our new Manager, Finance and Corporate Affairs.
    After graduating from the University of Windsor, Veronica worked in both not-for-profit and financial service industries. She gained experience in reporting and compliance requirements for not-for-profit organizations in the Association of Ontario Midwives and Junior Achievement of Canada.

    Veronica takes pride in providing the best fund valuation, investment information reporting, and revenue governance services to institutional investors through her employment at CIBCMellon. Over the years, Veronica expanded her expertise to the areas of corporate finance, budgeting and forecasting, financial investment instruments, and data management. She is a lifelong learner, and her career ambition is to eliminate redundancy and manual input with the most cost-efficient technology.

    Welcome, Veronica to the team!

    Member stories

    Arnprior and District FHT and Ottawa Valley FHT – Family health team expansion in the works for Carleton Place

    Queen’s FHT – how system navigator Valerie Dewal, RN, helps high-needs patients through their health-care journeys (article in FLA OHT newsletter)

    #AFHTO2022 updates- ED networking sessions and more

    Reconnect and Reimagine: moving forward together

    Long COVID materials and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    WSIB health and safety rebates are available – and they’re doubled for 2022!

    To help smaller businesses (businesses with 1-99 full-time employees) recover from the pandemic, the WSIB is doubling the rebates through their Health and Safety Excellence program this year – and they’re giving businesses $1,000 towards their health and safety plan!

    EDs/Admin Leads, lead clinicians and board chairs can join for a webinar on Thursday, September 22 from 12-1pm to learn more about the program benefits and how investing in health and safety keeps your employees safe and can boost your bottom line. Check out WSIB’s website for more information and click here to register for the webinar.

    Ministry and Ontario Health updates- MH data and substance use treatment

    Toronto Geriatrics Update Course, Nov. 4, 2022

    Content provided by Sinai Health and University Health Network and Dr. Samir K. Sinha (edited for length)

    You are invited to attend our 10th Annual CME Course, which has been designed to provide primary care providers and health care professionals with the latest practical and evidence-based knowledge in providing geriatric care. We are bringing back the highly requested Top 10 Geriatric Medicine Articles, as well as providing you with Updates on MAID, tools on how to Navigate a Cognitive Assessment, and lots of other surprises from well renowned professionals! You don’t want to miss this one.

    This year’s course will once again be delivered virtually. Just note that the day will run from 8:40 AM – 3:30 PM EDT.

    Registration is Open! Scholarships are also available to ensure this can be an accessible event. Please contact us if you need assistance.

    For further information, please visit our website. View the agenda here.

    Introduction to ICS: What It Is and Why It’s Important, Sep. 22, 2022
    First of a three-part webinar series, which will aim to provide OHTs with the knowledge and skills necessary to meaningfully engage and include Indigenous organizations and communities in the planning, design, delivery, and evaluation of health services. The first webinar will focus on the foundations of Indigenous Cultural Safety, in recognition that learning to apply culturally safe care is lifelong. Register here.

    Community of Practice: Infection Prevention and Control in Primary Care, Oct. 4- 31, 2022

    Quarterly (CoP) meetings hosted by Public Health Ontario to support Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) programs in Primary Care settings.  

    Sessions will be held on several dates and times for different regions. Find out more here.

    AFHTO 2022 Conference, Oct. 12, 2022

    Join your peers from across Ontario and beyond as we reconnect and reimagine, moving forward together.

    Members get more than 50% off registration. Register with your verification code here.

    Social Prescribing Conference: Current Practices & Community Conversations, Oct. 20, 2022
    Virtual conference hosted by the Alliance. Find out more here.

    Practical Evidence for Informed Practice, Oct. 21-22, 2022
    Family medicine rapid fire conference. Find out more here.

  • Bits & Pieces: bivalent COVID-19 booster dose and more

    Bits & Pieces: bivalent COVID-19 booster dose and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Ontarians aged 18+ eligible for bivalent COVID-19 booster dose
    • Reminder- Wellness Check: Dealing with Transitions and Managing Stress, Sep. 15
    • New resources- Cannabis and Older Adults
    • Reminder- submit questions for the fireside chat with the Ministry of Health and Ontario Health by Sep. 23
    • OHT and PHU fall vaccine collaboration and more
    • Program extensions to 2023 for publicly funded vaccines
    • Upcoming events including Long COVID and more

     

     

    Ontarians aged 18+ eligible for bivalent COVID-19 booster dose

    Bivalent COVID-19 boosters are available to vulnerable populations immediately. All Ontarians aged 18+ will be eligible as of September 26 and can book through the provincial booking line or call 1-833-943-3900. Vaccines also will be available to primary care clinics who wish to provide them – please contact your PHU for more details.

    Read the full news release here.

    Reminder- Wellness Check: Dealing with Transitions and Managing Stress, Sep. 15

    Hosted in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario, participants will have the opportunity to gain insight into change processes and their impact on workplace mental health. Learn more and register here.

    Cannabis and Older Adults infographic

     

     

    New resources- Cannabis and Older Adults

    The Cannabis and Older Adults eLearning modules by CCSMH Canadian Coalition for Seniors Mental Health are still available, and new resources are available in both English and French. New material will be added over the next few months. Current titles include:

    • Assessing Appropriateness of Medical Cannabis for Older Adults
    • Optimizing Communication with Older Adults About Cannabis
    • Monitoring for Potential Adverse Effects of Cannabis Among Older Adults

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Reminder- submit questions for the fireside chat with the Ministry of Health and Ontario Health by Sep. 23

    We are pleased to welcome Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Catherine Zahn, and Ontario Health CEO, Matt Anderson, to the AFHTO conference this year at our pre-conference fireside chat on Oct. 11! Together, we will have an informal conversation about the current state of health care in Ontario, including their reflection on the role of primary care during the pandemic and in the build back of the health care system in the province.

    Moderated by AFHTO’s past president, Dr. Allan Grill, this session will be an important opportunity to hear about the work the government is doing. We encourage members to join and to submit questions by Sep. 23, 2022. Register with your verification code here.

    OHT and PHU fall vaccine collaboration and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Program extensions to 2023 for publicly funded vaccines

    Content below provided by Ministry of Health

    The Ministry of Health put out a guidance document to communicate the extended eligibility for publicly funded vaccines for high risk and school-based programs (see here for English and French). Since several vaccines have age- or grade-based eligibility, some individuals may have missed their opportunity to receive the recommended vaccines under the publicly funded program as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This document indicates the applicable vaccines for continued access for missed doses beyond the age or grade-based eligibility criteria and outlines eligible cohorts, and the timeframe individuals must receive their missed vaccine doses.

    Primary Care & Covid-19 Support CoP, Sep. 14, 2022
    Hosted by OH, there are updates on Covid-19 trends and impacts from a provincial perspective; Covid-19 Clinical Pathways/resources; Ontario Health’s Guidance for the Clinically Appropriate Use of Virtual Care in Primary Care. Register here.

    Long COVID, Sep. 16, 2022

    49th in the series ‘Changing the way we work’- OCF and UofT DFCM COVID-19 CoP. Register here.

    NPAO 2022 Annual Conference, Sep. 22-23, 2022
    This years’ Conference theme is The NP Experience: Pushing Boundaries Towards Common Goals. Find out more here.

    OMD Digital Health and Virtual Care Conference, Sep. 29-30, 2022
    Virtual conference hosted by OntarioMD. Find out more here.

    Community of Practice: Infection Prevention and Control in Primary Care, Oct. 4- 31, 2022

    Quarterly (CoP) meetings hosted by Public Health Ontario to support Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) programs in Primary Care settings.  

    Sessions will be held on several dates and times for different regions. Find out more here.

    AFHTO 2022 Conference, Oct. 12, 2022

    Join your peers from across Ontario and beyond as we reconnect and reimagine, moving forward together.

    Members get more than 50% off registration. Register with your verification code here.

  • Bits & Pieces: aconitine poisoning memo and more

    Bits & Pieces: aconitine poisoning memo and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • CMOH memo re aconitine poisoning
    • Reminder- Wellness Check: Dealing with Transitions and Managing Stress, Sep. 15
    • Member stories
    • Submit questions for the fireside chat with the Ministry of Health and Ontario Health by Sep. 23
    • First boosters open for children 5- to 11-years-old and more
    • Reminder – deadline to email re social worker focus groups at #AFHTO2022 is Sep. 9
    • Upcoming events including Immunizations Across the Lifespan and more

     

    CMOH memo re aconitine poisoning

    “I am writing to notify all healthcare providers and local public health units that the Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation concerning aconitine poisoning cases reported in Ontario this week. I am urging all healthcare providers to be alert for patients presenting with symptoms that are consistent with aconitine poisoning.”

    Read the full memo here.

    Reminder- Wellness Check: Dealing with Transitions and Managing Stress, Sep. 15

    Hosted in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario, participants will have the opportunity to gain insight into change processes and their impact on workplace mental health. Learn more and register here.

    Member stories

    Central Lambton FHT- Health team among the few accepting patients

    Peninsula FHT – Health unit commends Peninsula FHT for COVID-19 efforts

    Queens FHT – Nine new family doctors to practice in the City of Kingston

    Submit questions for the fireside chat with the Ministry of Health and Ontario Health by Sep. 23

    Dr. Catherine Zahn profile picture shows her smiling with a closed mouth. She has a silver haired pixie cut and is wearing a dark grey top with black polka dots, grey pearl earrings and a statement necklace Matt Anderson

    We are pleased to welcome Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Catherine Zahn, and Ontario Health CEO, Matt Anderson, to the AFHTO conference this year at our pre-conference fireside chat on Oct. 11! Together, we will have an informal conversation about the current state of health care in Ontario, including their reflection on the role of primary care during the pandemic and in the build back of the health care system in the province.

    Moderated by AFHTO’s past president, Dr. Allan Grill, this session will be an important opportunity to hear about the work the government is doing. We encourage members to join and to submit questions by Sep. 23, 2022.

    First boosters open for children 5- to 11-years-old and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Reminder – deadline to email re social worker focus groups at #AFHTO2022 is Sep. 9

    Content below provided by University of Toronto
    We want to hear your thoughts on how social work practice is organized and supported in primary care! Take part in a 60-minute focus groups with other social workers to discuss how social work practice has shifted during the pandemic. We’ll be hosting focus groups in-person at the AFHTO 2022 Conference and invite you to join the discussion. Please note the in-person focus groups are for conference attendees but we’ll also host online focus groups for social workers who are not attending the conference.

    To participate, please email Simon at sck.lam@utoronto.ca by Friday, September 9 and let us know if you will be attending the conference.

    This study from the University of Toronto is led by Dr. Rachelle Ashcroft, Associate Professor at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work and supported by the Association of Family Health Teams of Ontario and the Ontario Association of Social Workers.

    Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health: A Three-Part Series, starting Sep. 15, 2022
    Hosted by ECHO Ontario Child and Youth Mental Health. Register here.

    Immunizations Across the Lifespan, Sep. 17, 2022

    Hosted by Canadian Collaborative Research Network for family physicians and pharmacists. Register here.

    OMGMA Conference 2022: Together Again, Sep. 21- 23, 2022
    In-person event in Mississauga. Register here.

    OMD Digital Health and Virtual Care Conference, Sep. 29-30, 2022
    Virtual conference hosted by OntarioMD. Find out more here.

    NPAO 2022 Annual Conference, Sep. 22-23, 2022
    This years’ Conference theme is The NP Experience: Pushing Boundaries Towards Common Goals. Find out more here.

    AFHTO 2022 Conference, Oct. 12, 2022

    Join your peers from across Ontario and beyond as we reconnect and reimagine, moving forward together.

    Members get more than 50% off registration. Register with your verification code here.

  • Bits & Pieces: deadline to come to #AFHTO2022 for free and more

    Bits & Pieces: deadline to come to #AFHTO2022 for free and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Deadline to come to #AFHTO2022 for free is today
    • Reminder- Wellness Check: Dealing with Transitions and Managing Stress, Sep. 15
    • Member stories
    • Paxlovid memo, addendum to COVID-19 PPE guidance and more

     
    • Integrate early literacy into your practice with Early Words/Premiers mots
    • Ontario Health seeking feedback on a new quality standard: sickle cell disease
    • Upcoming events including Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health and more

    Deadline to come to #AFHTO2022 for free is today
    We have several openings for program hosts. These volunteers help keep our sessions on track and get complimentary registration in return. See the role description here and email paula.myers@afhto.ca if you’re interested. Deadline Aug. 31, 2022.

    Reminder- Wellness Check: Dealing with Transitions and Managing Stress, Sep. 15

    Hosted in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario, participants will have the opportunity to gain insight into change processes and their impact on workplace mental health. Learn more and register here.

    Member stories

    A large group of CarePoint Health staff stand in front of their logo in thier building

    CarePoint Health – PMH Success Story: CarePoint Health

    Credit Valley FHT – Canada experiencing shortage of family doctors

    Paxlovid memo, addendum to COVID-19 PPE guidance and more

    Recent updates include:

    • Memo – Paxlovid prescribing in primary care – Testing and tools – EN and FR– OH, Aug. 30, 2022
    • Addendum: Guidelines for Pandemic Stockpile Use- EN and FR – MOH, Aug. 24, 2022

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

    Integrate early literacy into your practice with Early Words/Premiers mots

    The Canadian Children’s Literacy Foundation is inviting clinics and hospitals across Canada to apply to join its Early Words/Premier mots program. Early Words provides healthcare professionals with resources, training, and books to deliver early literacy support to families with babies and young children.

    If your team serves children from newborn to age five who face barriers to literacy, you can learn more here, and apply to join here. Expressions of interest are due by Sep. 30. For more information please email earlywords@childrensliteracy.ca.

    Ontario Health seeking feedback on a new quality standard: sickle cell disease
    Ontario Health is developing a new quality standard for sickle cell disease and invite you to review the draft and offer feedback. Primary care providers can play a key role in monitoring of symptoms and management of chronic complications for people with sickle cell disease. The quality standard and patient guide will be available for review here from September 2 to 23.

    Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health: A Three-Part Series, starting Sep. 15, 2022
    Hosted by ECHO Ontario Child and Youth Mental Health. Register here.

    Immunizations Across the Lifespan, Sep. 17, 2022

    Hosted by Canadian Collaborative Research Network for family physicians and pharmacists. Register here.

    OMGMA Conference 2022: Together Again, Sep. 21- 23, 2022
    In-person event in Mississauga. Register here.

    OMD Digital Health and Virtual Care Conference, Sep. 29-30, 2022
    Virtual conference hosted by OntarioMD. Find out more here.

    AFHTO 2022 Conference, Oct. 12, 2022

    Join your peers from across Ontario and beyond as we reconnect and reimagine, moving forward together.

    Members get more than 50% off registration. Register with your verification code here.

  • Bits & Pieces: social worker focus groups and more

    Bits & Pieces: social worker focus groups and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Social worker focus groups at #AFHTO2022
    • Resources needed for library refresh
    • Hamilton FHT Green Initiative
    • Member stories
    • Want to come to #AFHTO2022 for free?
    • COVID-19 vaccination for kids under 5 materials and more
    • Free online module- Management of Transient lschemic Attack (TIA) and Minor Stroke
    • ECHO Ontario Mental Health Fall 2022
    • Call for abstracts- Trillium Primary Health Care Research Day
    • Upcoming events including Wellness Check: Dealing with Transitions and Managing Stress and more

    Social worker focus groups at #AFHTO2022

    Content below provided by University of Toronto

    We want to hear your thoughts on how social work practice is organized and supported in primary care! Take part in a 60-minute focus groups with other social workers to discuss how social work practice has shifted during the pandemic. We’ll be hosting focus groups in-person at the AFHTO 2022 Conference and invite you to join the discussion. Please note the in-person focus groups are for conference attendees but we’ll also host online focus groups for social workers who are not attending the conference.

    To participate, please email Simon at sck.lam@utoronto.ca by Friday, September 9 and let us know if you will be attending the conference.

    This study from the University of Toronto is led by Dr. Rachelle Ashcroft, Associate Professor at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work and supported by the Association of Family Health Teams of Ontario and the Ontario Association of Social Workers.

    Resources needed for library refresh

    We’re hoping you can help us update our members’ resource library! As you know, AFHTO maintains an extensive web-based library of resources for our members. This includes sample policies, agreements, and resources that have been contributed by members for members and/or developed by third-party affiliates. We’re reviewing and refining the resources to ensure the website layout is simple, intuitive, and helpful, as well as current and accurate.

    We’re asking you assist in the collection of sample documents that would be shared on our website such as:

    • Finance Policy Manuals
    • Operations Policy Manuals
    • HR Policy Manuals
    • Strategic Plans

    Please forward any sample resources to Alexander Christy at alexander.christy@afhto.ca. Members with any questions are welcome to contact Bryn Hamilton.

    Hamilton FHT Green Initiative

    Screenshot of video- Hamilton FHT logo with 'Green Initiative' underneath

    The HFHT Green Initiative is an interprofessional team developing practical solutions to improve patient health care outcomes while simultaneously reducing climate change.

    The initiative provides a free and evidence-based program which includes an action-based checklist, poster orders (1148 so far delivered), a monthly newsletter (17 sent so far), a CFPC Mainpro+ accredited webinar series (212 attendees thus far), an infographic series (31 different topics), 2 waiting room videos, 2 EMR-embedded prescription templates, patient facing group education, resource kits, and project support. For more information, please contact the HFHT Green Team at green.team@hamiltonfht.ca.

    Member stories

    Essex County NPLC – calls to open more nurse practitioner-led clinics in Windsor-Essex

    Georgina NPLC – PORTRAITS OF GIVING: Beth Cowper-Fung

    Hamilton FHT – new family doctors are opening a Hamilton Mountain clinic

    Want to come for free?
    We have several openings for program hosts. These volunteers help keep our sessions on track and get complimentary registration in return. See the role description here and email paula.myers@afhto.ca if you’re interested. Deadline Aug. 31, 2022.

    COVID-19 vaccination for kids under 5 materials and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Free online module- Management of Transient lschemic Attack (TIA) and Minor Stroke

    The West GTA Stroke Network team has developed a Free Online E-Learning Module on the Management of Transient lschemic Attack (TIA) and Minor Stroke: The Latest Best Practice! The target audience is primary care physicians. Learn more here.

    ECHO Ontario Mental Health Fall 2022
    Registration for Fall 2022 programming for ECHO Ontario Mental Health at CAMH and U of T is now open. Find out more and register here.

    Call for abstracts- Trillium Primary Health Care Research Day
    You can submit your research for presentation at the 2022 Trillium Primary Health Care Research Day, Oct. 14. Deadline Sep. 30, 2022. Find out more here.

    Wellness Check: Dealing with Transitions and Managing Stress Sep. 15

    Hosted in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario, participants will have the opportunity to gain insight into change processes and their impact on workplace mental health. Learn more and register here.

    Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health: A Three-Part Series, starting Sep. 15, 2022
    Hosted by ECHO Ontario Child and Youth Mental Health. Register here.

    Immunizations Across the Lifespan, Sep. 17, 2022

    Hosted by Canadian Collaborative Research Network for family physicians and pharmacists. Register here.

    OMGMA Conference 2022: Together Again, Sep. 21- 23, 2022
    In-person event in Mississauga. Register here.

    OMD Digital Health and Virtual Care Conference, Sep. 29-30, 2022
    Virtual conference hosted by OntarioMD. Find out more here.

    AFHTO 2022 Conference, Oct. 12, 2022

    Join your peers from across Ontario and beyond as we reconnect and reimagine, moving forward together.

    Members get more than 50% off registration. Register with your verification code here.