Ultimate Blogging Championship

Tag: government

  • Bits & Pieces: Practical technologies that can enable ageing in place webinar and more

    Bits & Pieces: Practical technologies that can enable ageing in place webinar and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Practical technologies that can enable ageing in place webinar May 19
    • ONCA webinar materials available
    • Financial management training series materials available
    • Reminder – deadline to join #AFHTO22 working group today
    • Seeking input on the structure of social work practice in primary care
    • Memo regarding tools for identifying high-risk patients eligible for Paxlovid and more

     
    • Interview on the diagnosis and management of concussion in adolescents
    • Survey for a national framework for diabetes in Canada
    • FAQ: MOH “Axe the Fax” survey. Deadline May 4
    • PHO Primary Care IPAC Community of Practice
    • Upcoming events including antibiotic prescribing and your CPSO QI Requirements and more

     

    Practical technologies that can enable ageing in place webinar May 19

    Dr. Samir Sinha, Director of Geriatrics at Sinai Health and University Health Network (UHN) and Director of Health Policy Research at the National Institute on Ageing (NIA) will be presenting on Practical Technologies that can Enable Ageing in Place on May 19, from 9:00 – 10:00am EDT.

    Presented by Sinai Health, in partnership with the NIA, UHN, and the Primary Care Collaborative, the webinar will aim to give health care professionals a better understanding of:

    • The risks and impacts of at-home medical emergencies
    • Why older Canadians want to age in place, now more than ever
    • Practical technologies that can enable ageing in place

    Register here.

    Title slide screenshot

     

    ONCA webinar materials available

    Kathy O’Brien and Simmie Palter from INQ Law reviewed the new tools and Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA)’s impact on FHTs on Tuesday, April 26. Slides and video are now available on our site.

     

     

    Screenshot of slide titled 'what is the problem we're trying to solve?'

     

    Financial management training series materials available

    Hosted by AFHTO, a two-part series on financial reporting and forecasting was held with Dr. Silvie MacLean, Executive Strategic Performance and Finance Educational Leader. Materials are now available.

     

    Reminder – deadline to join #AFHTO22 working group today
     

    The deadline to join a working group and/or Bright Lights review committee is today. Come behind the scenes of our first hybrid conference and be the first to learn about new developments in the field, influence conference programming and discover the latest innovators in areas directly relevant to your work. Working group members also receive a discount off their registration fee.

    Seeking input on the structure of social work practice in primary care

    Dr. Rachelle Ashcroft, an Assistant Professor at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, is the lead investigator for this research study titled The Structure of Social Work Practice in Ontario Family Health Teams: A Mixed-Methods Study. It involves a provincial-wide survey and semi-structured focus groups with discussions focused on examining the daily practice of social workers in FHTs during the pandemic. Participants will be social workers working in primary care teams located across Ontario.

    Participants will be asked to complete a survey asking about the role of social work, the current and optimal state of practice, and social work leadership. At the end, participants can express their interest in taking part of a focus group. Each focus group will last 60 minutes and consist of social workers working in various team-based, primary care settings. Should you have any questions, please contact Rachelle Ashcroft at rachelle.ashcroft@utoronto.ca.

    Memo regarding tools for identifying high-risk patients eligible for Paxlovid and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Interview on the diagnosis and management of concussion in adolescents

    Graduate students are researching the perspectives of community-based primary care providers in Toronto on the diagnosis and management of concussion in adolescents. They’re interested in connecting with a few family physicians, pediatricians, and nurse practitioners working in Toronto for a half-hour interview to participate in their capstone project.

    If you’re interested in participating or have any questions, please send them an email at concussion.trp@utoronto.ca. Deadline June 3.

    Survey for a national framework for diabetes in Canada

    The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is undertaking a virtual engagement process to support Bill C-237 – An Act to Establish a National Framework for Diabetes, which received Royal Assent in June 2021.

    As part of this process, they invite you to provide your input via an online survey platform- EN and FR. Deadline May 9.

    FAQ: MOH “Axe the Fax” survey. Deadline May 4
    The Ministry of Health has initiated an analysis of the current state and drivers of fax use to identify potential options for phasing out fax use in Ontario’s health system. As part of their first phase, there is an assessment survey with a purpose to obtain input from a variety of stakeholders about their use of traditional paper-based fax and electronic fax. Only one survey needs to be submitted from each organization. For more information, an FAQ and the survey link, click here.

    PHO Primary Care IPAC Community of Practice

    Public Health Ontario is hosting a community of practice series that will review key concepts and support resources for Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) in Primary Care settings. Intended for those who oversee or implement IPAC in Primary Care settings, the series will be held over four sessions starting late May. Find your regions and more here.

    • Register here for the West Primary Care Series.
    • Register here for the Central West Primary Care Series.
    • Register here for the Central Primary Care Series.
    • Register here for the East Primary Care Series.
    • Register here for the North Primary Care Series.

    Choosing Wisely in Primary Care Series: Antibiotic Prescribing and your CPSO QI Requirements, May 4, 2022
    First in OCFP series “Choosing Wisely in Primary Care” on Wednesday, May 4, at 8:00-9:00am. Register here.

    Mental Health Week, May 2-8, 2022
    This year’s CMHA Mental Health Week is all about empathy! You can download the toolkit here

    New Horizons: Navigating towards the future of family medicine, starting May 6, 2022
    Speaker series hosted by Dr. Danielle Martin, Chair of the University of Toronto Department of Family and Community Medicine. The first session is a conversation with epidemiologist Dr. Sandro Galea. Find out more here.

    3rd Annual McMaster University Review Course in Psychiatry, May 26-27, 2022
    Virtual CPD Conference. Find out more here.

    Feeding Children – Success is in the Details, starting May 18, 2022
    Hosted by Nutrition Connection at the Ontario Public Health Association and Ellyn Satter Institute. Find out more here.

    Action Now! Building Equitable Futures Together, June 8-9, 2022
    Alliance for Healthier Communities conference. Register here.

  • AFHTO’s Response to Ontario’s 2022 Spring Budget

    TORONTO, April 29, 2022 /CNW/ – On behalf of the Association of Family Health Teams of Ontario (AFHTO) members across the province, AFHTO welcomes the investments in home care, mental health care, and health human resources in the 2022 Ontario Budget, Ontario’s Plan to Build.

    The investments will help strengthen the critical areas of home care and mental health care in our health system and expand access to care. AFHTO also recognizes that the government understands the need to invest in the health care workforce, while building the health human resources workforce of the future, specifically in underserviced communities. However, the challenges in primary and community care remain significant given lower funding and salary limits. AFHTO continues to urge the Ontario government to expand access and funding to team-based primary care to provide comprehensive care for Ontarians.

    “Home care and mental health need substantial rebuilding, and we commend the government for these investments,” said Kavita Mehta, Chief Executive Officer, AFHTO. “But seniors managing multiple conditions and medicines, people suffering from mental health challenges, and parents caring for children with chronic conditions need an integrated primary care team that can work hand-in-hand with patients to provide comprehensive and coordinated care. It is time to ensure every Ontarian who needs it has access to team-based primary care.”

    Only one in four Ontarians have access to team-based primary care, which offers more timely access to care, better coordination of care, and cost savings for the health system. An investment in team-based primary care – something the government has not committed to in recent years – is an investment in better seniors’ care, improving access to mental health care, and improving health outcomes.

    AFHTO is calling on the government to invest an additional $75 million per year for the next 10 years in team-based primary care. The healthcare system is complex, each patient’s needs are unique, and a team approach meets these needs. Without access to team-based primary care when needed, too many people fall through the cracks, negatively impacting their health and increasing costs to our healthcare system.

    “Evidence shows it can cost the province three times more to care for a patient who is unable to access high-quality team-based care. Yet only one in four Ontarians have access to an interprofessional care team,” said Clarys Tirel, President & Chair, AFHTO. “Interprofessional primary care teams are there for populations that need support the most – regardless of where they live – such as seniors, those dealing with mental health challenges, and people with chronic illnesses. When it comes to better access to care, it takes a team. We need further investments in team-based primary care.”

    Along with our partners in primary and community care, AFHTO will continue to work with the Ontario government, and all political parties heading into the 2022 Ontario election, to ensure that our health system provides access to team-based primary care for every person who needs it.

    For further information: kavita.mehta@afhto.ca

    Relevant Links:

  • Bits & Pieces: #AFHTO2022 call for abstracts and more

    Bits & Pieces: #AFHTO2022 call for abstracts and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • AFHTO 2022 Conference: call for abstracts
    • Reminder- online appointment booking funding webinar tomorrow
    • Election 2022: It Takes a Team – on social media!
    • Happy Health Administration Day
    • Doctors’ Day is May 1
    • Paxlovid prescription forms, masking requirements continue and more
    • MOH “Axe the Fax” survey
    • MOH, CMOH & OH updates including memos on hepatitis in children and OHTs
    • Upcoming events including understanding your health webinars and more

    AFHTO 2022 Conference: call for abstracts

    Reconnect and Reimagine: moving forward together Oct. 12, 2022 #AFHTO2022

    It’s time to highlight primary care. We’ll be selecting sessions and posters for our 4 core themes and we need your help. We want your insight, from system and policy-level discussions to patient-focused inquiries into the ways teams can better serve their communities now as we reconnect and reimagine, moving forward together.

    Find out more here.

    And don’t forget, the deadline to join a working group and/or Bright Lights review committee is next Tuesday, May 3. Come behind the scenes of our first hybrid conference and be the first to learn about new developments in the field, influence conference programming and discover the latest innovators in areas directly relevant to your work. Working group members also receive a discount off their registration fee.

    Reminder- online appointment booking funding webinar tomorrow

    The Ministry of Health has approved funding for Ontario Health Teams (OHT) in development teams and other health care organizations to enable more patients to schedule an online appointment with their primary care provider or other community care provider.

    This funding is intended to support transforming how care is delivered and assisting OHTs and the broader health sector to build their digital health maturity. This funding is also available to primary care and teams that are interested in implementing OAB in their clinics.

    To learn more about this opportunity, register for our webinar tomorrow with Ontario Health, April 28 from 12:00 to 12:30 p.m.

    Election 2022: It Takes a Team – on social media!

    Teams are doing fantastic local advocacy as we head into an election where health care is a top issue for all parties.

    Social media – especially Twitter – is a good tool to reach a political audience, and we encourage you use it lots this next month! Check out our social media animations and graphics here, and share successes, pictures from candidate meetings, or pictures of patients with a voter card. Broadcast what you do to deliver the best primary care in Ontario where It Takes a Team.

    AFHTO will be tweeting regularly. We ask you tag @afhto when you tweet, and we will also retweet you!

    Please use our campaign slogan #ItTakesATeam

    If you have any questions, please email advocacy@afhto.ca.

    Happy Health Administration Day
    For all the appointment bookings, checking patients in at the front desk and making things just run better- to all the professionals who keep their teams going- we know it’s like herding cats, but we literally wouldn’t be able to do it without you. Happy Health Administration Day!

    Black and white picture of a black woman with her hair in a bun on top holding her right hand palm facing the camera. On it an orange post-it note says My Doctor's...Diagnosis saved my life.

     

    Doctors’ Day is May 1
    Sunday, May 1, the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) and health care organizations across the province will be recognizing contributions made by Ontario’s doctors. Ontarians can participate by saying thank you with colour here.

    You can also join the conversation with hashtag #DoctorsDay.

    A special thank you to all the family doctors working with our teams for the great care you provide to your patients and your communities each and every day.

     

     

    Paxlovid prescription forms, masking requirements continue and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    MOH “Axe the Fax” survey
    The Ministry of Health has initiated an analysis of the current state and drivers of fax use to identify potential options for phasing out fax use in Ontario’s health system. As part of their first phase, there is an assessment survey with a purpose to obtain input from a variety of stakeholders about their use of traditional paper-based fax and electronic fax. Only one survey needs to be submitted from each organization. For more information and the survey link, click here.

    MOH, CMOH & OH updates including memos on hepatitis in children and OHTs

    Understanding your health webinars
    Resources for patients and providers from Living Healthy Champlain. Learn more here

    Mental Health Week, May 2-8, 2022
    CMHA toolkit available here

    3rd Annual McMaster University Review Course in Psychiatry, May 26-27, 2022
    Virtual CPD Conference. Find out more here.

    Feeding Children – Success is in the Details, starting May 18, 2022
    Hosted by Nutrition Connection at the Ontario Public Health Association and Ellyn Satter Institute. Find out more here.

    Action Now! Building Equitable Futures Together, June 8-9, 2022
    Alliance for Healthier Communities conference. Early bird deadline Apr. 29. 2022. Register here.

     

  • Bits & Pieces: funding for online appointment booking 2022/23 and more

    Bits & Pieces: funding for online appointment booking 2022/23 and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Online appointment booking funding webinar Apr. 28
    • AFHTO 2022 Conference: create YOUR hybrid conference. Sign up by May 3
    • IPAC strategies webinar materials available
    • Member stories
    • Memo on optimizing care and more
    • Upcoming events including improving transitions from youth to adult health care and more

    Online appointment booking funding webinar Apr. 28

    The Ministry of Health has approved funding for Ontario Health Teams (OHT) in development teams and other health care organizations to enable more patients to schedule an online appointment with their primary care provider or other community care provider.

    This funding is intended to support transforming how care is delivered and assisting OHTs and the broader health sector to build their digital health maturity.

    To learn more about this opportunity, register for our webinar on Thursday, April 28 from 12:00 to 12:30pm.

    Reconnect and Reimagine: moving forward together Oct. 12, 2022 #AFHTO2022

    AFHTO 2022 Conference: create YOUR hybrid conference. Sign up by May 3

    Come behind the scenes of our first hybrid conference and be the first to learn about new developments in the field, influence conference programming and discover the latest innovators in areas directly relevant to your work. Working group members also receive a discount off their registration fee. Deadline May 3.

     

    Screenshot of slide titled IPAC risk assessment

     

    IPAC strategies webinar materials available

    On Apr. 14, in partnership with the members of the Primary Care Collaborative, Public Health Ontario (PHO) provided infection prevention and control (IPAC) information to those working in clinical office settings. Materials are now available.

     

    Member stories
    Huron Shores FHT- “For the younger doctors, I think having a health team is very attractive compared to what we have here now, a model of the old-fashioned doc who works on his own, runs his office, runs his staff, works all night at the hospital, works the next day at the clinic.”

    “NSHN … will support a joint business case between the East Algoma Primary Care Work Team and the Huron Shores Family Health Team to incorporate Thessalon, Bruce Mines and Richards Landing into the current Huron Shores Family Health Team.”

    Read the full article here.

    Memo on optimizing care and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    IPAC Central West: IPAC Primary Care CoP, Apr. 20, 2022
    Hosted by Public Health Ontario, IPAC Implementation and Support Team. Register here.

    ECHO Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 22- Jul. 15, 2022
    A free pilot telementoring program for primary health-care providers. Find out more here.

    Quadruple Aim Measures for Ontario Health Teams, Apr. 26, 2022
    HSPN’s next OHT webinar. Register here. Past webinar materials here.

    Changing the Story: Improving Transitions from Youth to Adult Health Care, Apr. 27, 2022
    Ontario Health webinar in partnership with the Provincial Council for Maternal and Child Health. Register here.

  • Prescribing Paxlovid, Fourth Doses and Additional Resources

    Dear Members,

    As COVID-19 hospitalizations and cases continue to rise across the province, the reality of this sixth wave of the pandemic is taking hold with this highly transmissible BA.2 sub-variant of Omicron. Ontario approved fourth doses of the COVID-19 vaccine for those eligible and has now made it possible for physicians and Nurse Practitioners to prescribe Paxlovid that can be dispensed in community pharmacies. As we head into what will be a difficult spring, please see below for some additional resources and updates you may find helpful.

    Prescribing Paxlovid
    An individual with a valid prescription for Paxlovid is eligible to receive publicly funded Paxlovid if they live, work, or study in Ontario or are here for an extended stay. They also need to meet the applicable clinical criteria outlined in the Ontario Health Guidance for providers on access to COVID-19 antiviral treatment.

    An individual is not required to have a valid Ontario health card or be an Ontario Drug Benefit Program recipient to receive publicly funded Paxlovid. Community pharmacies across the province are still onboarding to dispense Paxlovid and you can find which locations already have the antivirals on the Ministry site. Paxlovid is also available at all provincial Clinical Assessment Centres.

    Below are some resources you may find helpful:

    In their President’s Message yesterday, the Ontario College of Family Physicians highlighted key details to keep in mind with the rollout of Paxlovid prescribing, including additional clinical tools that would be helpful in determining patient eligibility for the antivirals.

    Rolling out fourth doses of COVID-19 vaccines
    On April 7th, the Ministry expanded eligibility for fourth doses (second booster dose) of the COVID-19 vaccine to include individuals aged 60 years and over as well as First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and over. Additional considerations include:

    • A fourth dose should be offered to those who received their third dose (first booster dose) five months (140 days) prior. The minimum interval for the fourth dose (second booster dose) is three months (84 days).
    • To maximize the immune response of the vaccine after a COVID-19 infection, it is recommended that individuals wait three months (84 days) after they tested positive, or their symptoms started.
    • At this time, it is not recommended to administer a fifth dose (second booster dose) to immunocompromised people.

    As a reminder, if  you would like to administer vaccines in your clinic so please connect with your PHU operational lead for information if you haven’t yet done so.

    Events
    IPAC Strategies To Ensure A Safe Environment In Primary Care Clinics
    The Primary Care Collaborative has partnered with Public Health Ontario to provide an infection prevention and control (IPAC) information webinar to those working in clinical office settings. In this webinar, practical IPAC strategies for ensuring a safe environment for patients, clinicians, and staff will be reviewed and evidence-based resources will be introduced to support the ongoing development of a complete IPAC program for this practice setting. Such an IPAC program will be responsive to current concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as routine infection risks in the clinical office environment.
    Date & Time: Thursday April 14, 2022 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
    Speaker: Dr. Jeya Nadarajah, IPAC Physician, Science and Public Health, Public Health Ontario

    Please register here.

    COVID-19 Community of Practice: All About Paxlovid
    The next OCFP/UofT DFCM CoP will be all about Paxlovid.
    Date & Time: Friday, April 22, 2022 from 7:55 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.
    Speakers: Dr. Sohal Goyal, Family Physician, West Mississauga Medical, Dr. Kelly Grindrod, Pharmacist and Associate Professor, University of Waterloo School of Pharmacy and Dr. Andrew Morris, Medical Director, Antimicrobial Stewardship Program, Sinai Health System/University Health Network.

    Please register here.

    Ontario Health Primary Care and COVID-19 Support CoP
    Ontario Health has a monthly series that will run every second Wednesday April to December. Its objectives are:

    • Provide updates on new guidance and initiatives affecting primary care.
    • View presentations and ask questions related to COVID-19 response and recovery initiatives within primary care.
    • Learn from and connect with your peers.

    Please register here.

    Alliance for Healthier Communities
    On April 5, 2022, the Alliance held a webinar on COVID-19 and indoor air quality – how community spaces can reduce transmission using ventilation, filtration, and ultra-violet disinfection. Click here to access the recording.

    New and Updated Resources

    Last week, the Ontario government announced the launching of a suite of supports for Ukrainian families arriving under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel. The supports available include Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) coverage. Please find the news release here and additional information on coming to Ontario from Ukraine here.

    The Ministry has developed the guidance document Ukrainians Fleeing War: Early Assessment Considerations for Primary Care Providers. This document is intended to support primary health care providers in their early assessments and care of individuals arriving in Ontario who have been displaced due to the war in Ukraine.

    There is a lot going on and we know you are exhausted. Heading into these ongoing waves is a constant reminder that this virus has no timetable around an end date, and we need to continue to remain vigilant to reduce its spread. Once again thank you for all you are doing to keep your patients and the community safe. If you need any assistance or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Stay safe.
     
    Yours in Good Health,
    The AFHTO Team

  • Bits & Pieces: Apr. 14 IPAC webinar and more

    Bits & Pieces: Apr. 14 IPAC webinar and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Reminder – IPAC strategies to ensure a safe environment in primary care clinics Apr. 14
    • Election advocacy webinar slides and video available
    • Ontario expanding access to COVID-19 antivirals & PCR testing and more
    • Study to investigate barriers in the diagnosis and management of dementia in primary care – recruiting family physicians
    • NPAO Patient Choice Award
    • Harm Reduction Fundamentals: A Toolkit
    • Wellness Together Canada- mental health and substance use resources
    • Upcoming events including curbing unnecessary CT scans for concussions and more

     

     

    Reminder- IPAC strategies to ensure a safe environment in primary care clinics Apr. 14

    In partnership with the members of the Primary Care Collaborative, Public Health Ontario (PHO) will provide infection prevention and control (IPAC) information to those working in clinical office settings.

    In this webinar, practical IPAC strategies for ensuring a safe environment for patients, clinicians, and staff will be reviewed and evidence-based resources will be introduced to support the ongoing development of a complete IPAC program for this practice setting.

    The information presented in this webinar will be of interest to clinicians as well as those designated to lead IPAC activities in the clinical office setting.

    Register here.

    apr 2022 advocacy webinar screenshot titled 'why advocacy matters'

    Election advocacy webinar slides and video available

    It’s exciting to be speaking with teams about their current advocacy and the work being planned for the coming two months as we head towards the June 2 provincial election! The election is expected to start on May 4. As you all know, though, parties are in full election mode now.

    AFHTO held an advocacy webinar with our government relations firm, Enterprise Canada, last week to discuss advocacy and the tools we’ve developed to support you. Read more here.

    Remember to also keep us in loop about your advocacy activities and if you need any support contact us at advocacy@afhto.ca.

    Ontario expanding access to COVID-19 antivirals & PCR testing and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Study to investigate barriers in the diagnosis and management of dementia in primary care – recruiting family physicians

    The purpose of this online study is to improve our understanding of diagnostic and therapeutic practices in the management of patients with cognitive impairment and Alzheimer Disease (AD) by primary care physicians. The study is conducted by NeuroEconSolutions, a company that designs online studies to better understand patients’ and doctors’ preferences regarding specific diagnostic tests, procedures, and treatments. Dr. Marie-Chantal Ménard is the Principal Investigator of this study.

    If you have any questions regarding the research study itself, please feel free to contact Dr. Marie-Chantal Ménard at ADinPCP@gmail.com. Recruitment is rolling and needs to be completed before the end of May 2022. An Amazon gift card of $150 will be provided to all those that complete the study.

    NPAO Patient Choice Award

    Nominations for the Patient Choice Award are submitted by patients, based on their description of their nurse practitioner’s professional qualities, approach to patient care and specific stories of dedication and how the nurse practitioner has made a difference in their lives or the lives of others. Here’s a poster to promote the award in your clinics. Deadline is June 17, 2022.

    Harm Reduction Fundamentals: A Toolkit
    CATIE has launched Harm Reduction Fundamentals: A Toolkit for Service Providers  a bilingual educational resource that includes a collection of interactive multimedia resources on foundational harm reduction knowledge. Here is more information on the Toolkit and an FAQ.

    Wellness Together Canada- mental health and substance use resources

    Wellness Together Canada is Canada’s first and only online platform offering immediate mental health and substance use support for people of all ages, in every province and territory, and in both official languages. Access free educational resources, e-courses and live counselling via phone, text, and video 24/7 and at no cost ever.

    They have developed a custom toolkit for primary care providers. It contains sample social media graphics, two posters with QR codes linking to resources, and an infographic to easily explain resources. Get it here.

    Curbing Unnecessary CT scans for Concussions, Apr. 13, 2022
    Join Choosing Wisely Talks for a discussion on reducing CT scans for concussions. Register here.

    IPAC Central West: IPAC Primary Care CoP, Apr. 20, 2022
    Hosted by Public Health Ontario, IPAC Implementation and Support Team. Register here.

    ECHO Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 22- Jul. 15, 2022
    A free pilot telementoring program for primary health-care providers. Find out more here.

    Quadruple Aim Measures for Ontario Health Teams, Apr. 26, 2022
    HSPN’s next OHT webinar. Register here. Past webinar materials here.

    Changing the Story: Improving Transitions from Youth to Adult Health Care, Apr. 27, 2022
    Ontario Health webinar in partnership with the Provincial Council for Maternal and Child Health. Register here.

  • Bits & Pieces: IPAC & advocacy webinars and more

    Bits & Pieces: IPAC & advocacy webinars and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • IPAC strategies to ensure a safe environment in primary care clinics Apr. 14
    • We need you. Provincial election campaign training with Enterprise Canada, tomorrow, Apr. 6, 2022
    • Welcome to Raveen Bahniwal
    • Member stories
    • Ontario Health and Primary Care, MHA CoE, and HCNS slides and video available
    • Strategies for an equitable recovery and the latest on 4th doses, immunity and more
    • Change to Ontario Cervical Screening Program (OCSP)’s guidelines
    • Upcoming events including diabetes care and more

     

    IPAC strategies to ensure a safe environment in primary care clinics Apr. 14

    In partnership with the members of the Primary Care Collaborative, Public Health Ontario (PHO) will provide infection prevention and control (IPAC) information to those working in clinical office settings.

    In this webinar, practical IPAC strategies for ensuring a safe environment for patients, clinicians, and staff will be reviewed and evidence-based resources will be introduced to support the ongoing development of a complete IPAC program for this practice setting.

    The information presented in this webinar will be of interest to clinicians as well as those designated to lead IPAC activities in the clinical office setting.

    Register here.

    We need you. Provincial election campaign training with Enterprise Canada, tomorrow, Apr. 6, 2022

    AFHTO Executive Committee and CEO meet with Minister Elliott on Zoom mar 2022

    The provincial election is just over two months away. Now is the time for local candidates to hear from you. Anyone on the team can join and we highly encourage you to do so! It’s going to take all of us to make an impact across Ontario.

    If you have any questions or need support, please email advocacy@afhto.ca.

    ravninder bahniwal headshot

     

    Welcome to Raveen Bahniwal
    We’re happy to introduce Raveen Bahniwal, our new Quality and Knowledge Translation Specialist.

    Ravninder (Raveen) completed her bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology at McMaster University where she has experience in quantitative research, mainly running randomized controlled trials with the Exercise Metabolism Research Group. She received her master’s in public health from Western University where she worked on a research project within the Department of Family Medicine investigating the connection between artificial intelligence and primary care challenges.

    During the pandemic, Ravninder has been working as a Community Health Ambassador to provide wraparound COVID-19 supports to high-risk neighbourhoods and support community members in getting vaccinated for COVID-19. Welcome to the team!

    Member stories

    Parry Sound FHT– ‘It’s unbelievable’: Parry Sound FHT uses virtual reality to help seniors to explore the world

    Peninsula FHT– Physician buy-in a prescription for high vaccination rates

    Screenshot of Ontario Health and Primary Care webinar april 1

    Ontario Health and Primary Care, MHA CoE, and HCNS slides and video available

    On Friday, April 1 we had an update and conversation with Ontario Health on its role in supporting primary care, the work being led through the Mental Health and Addictions Centre of Excellence (MHA CoE), and the vision for OH’s Healthcare Navigation Service (HCNS). Slides and video are now available.

    Strategies for an equitable recovery and the latest on 4th doses, immunity and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Change to Ontario Cervical Screening Program (OCSP)’s guidelines

    There will be a change to Ontario Cervical Screening Program (OCSP)’s Guidelines, specifically pertaining to recommendations for repeating cytology after an abnormal result. The OCSP now formally recommends that people with the following cervical screening results repeat their cytology test in 12 months instead of in 6 months:

    • A first time low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) or atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) result
    • An LSIL or ASCUS result followed by a normal result

    The OCSP originally released these evidence-based recommendations to support the gradual resumption of cervical screening services during COVID-19. Ontario Health is now formalizing the change to their screening recommendations. Please see the fulsome screening recommendation summary that can be found here. For evidence to support this recommendation, please see here.

    Ontario Health is working with Ontario labs that provide cervical screening testing to update the relevant cytology result reports, so they reflect this recommendation change.

    Please reach out to cancerinfo@ontariohealth.ca, if you have any questions.

    The 3R’s – Relief, Recovery & Renewal: A Prescription for Self-Care, Apr. 6, 2022

    Hosted by Instincts at Work.Find out more here.

    Diabetes Care: Tools and Resources to Support Mental Health Needs, Apr. 8, 2022
    Hosted by Ontario Health and moderated by Dr. David Kaplan. Find out more here.

    ECHO Care of the Elderly: Long-Term Care, starting Apr. 12, 2022
    Hosted by Baycrest, in collaboration with North East Specialized Geriatric Centre and the Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care (CLRI), this free series runs on Tuesdays from April 12 – July 12, 2022. Apply here.

    QI Innovations: Better Data, Better Decisions, Better Outcomes, Apr. 12, 2022
    Free conference hosted by Excellence through Quality Improvement Project (E-QIP). Learn more here.

    IPAC Central West: IPAC Primary Care CoP, Apr. 20, 2022
    Hosted by Public Health Ontario, IPAC Implementation and Support Team. Register here.

  • Bits & Pieces: This Friday- Ontario Health and Primary Care and more

    Bits & Pieces: This Friday- Ontario Health and Primary Care and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • This Friday- Ontario Health and Primary Care, MHA CoE, and HCNS
    • Member stories
    • Reminder- Your Voice is Important: Election Campaign Training with Enterprise Canada, Apr. 6, 2022
    • Guidance documents including the new Novavax Nuvaxovid vaccine and more
    • Ontario Health Primary Care and COVID-19 Support CoP
    • BORN Ontario Call for Interest: Indigenous Representation, Maternal Newborn Outcomes Committee
    • Upcoming events including OHT Year End Update and more

     

    This Friday- Ontario Health and Primary Care, MHA CoE, and HCNS, April 1

    AFHTO has arranged for an update and conversation with Ontario Health on its role in supporting primary care, the work being led through the Mental Health and Addictions Centre of Excellence (MHA CoE), and the vision for OH’s Healthcare Navigation Service (HCNS). Register here to hear from senior decision makers at OH talk about how they are planning to support primary care through the pandemic recovery.

    Member stories

    Bancroft Community and Prince Edward FHTs– Public Health recognizes community partners as COVID-19 clinics wind down

    Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority– Ontario expanding mental health services for Indian Residential School survivors

    Reminder- Your Voice is Important: Election Campaign Training with Enterprise Canada, Apr. 6, 2022

    AFHTO Executive Committee members and staff meet with the Liberal health squad to discuss our recommendations to support team-based primary care ahead of the provincial election.

    The provincial election is just over three months away. Now is the time for local candidates to hear from you!

    If you have any questions or need support, please email advocacy@afhto.ca.

    Guidance documents including the new Novavax Nuvaxovid vaccine and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Ontario Health Primary Care and COVID-19 Support CoP

    Ontario Health has a monthly series that will run every second Wednesday April to December. Its objectives are:

    • Provide updates on new guidance and initiatives affecting primary care.
    • View presentations and ask questions related to COVID-19 response and recovery initiatives within primary care.
    • Learn from and connect with your peers.

    Register here.

    BORN Ontario Call for Interest: Indigenous Representation, Maternal Newborn Outcomes Committee

    The Better Outcomes Registry & Network (BORN) Ontario is looking for an Indigenous Health Professional interested in becoming a member of its Maternal Newborn Outcomes Committee (MNOC) to help inform and guide opportunities for BORN’s involvement in Indigenous health and related data governance. Apply by April 12.

    If you have questions, please email jbrownlee@bornontario.ca.

    COVID-19 and indoor air quality – how community spaces can reduce transmission using ventilation, filtration, and ultra-violet disinfection

    Hosted by the Alliance and IPHCC, this April 5 webinar features two experts in indoor air quality from the University of Toronto. Want to get started now? Dr. Siegel and Dr. Li have shared five great things you can do to improve air quality and reduce airborne transmission of COVID-19.

    Diabetes Care: Tools and Resources to Support Mental Health Needs, Apr. 8, 2022
    Hosted by Ontario Health and moderated by Dr. David Kaplan. Find out more here.

    OHT Year End Update, Apr. 8, 2022
    A special OHT Virtual Engagement Series to reflect on Ontario Health Teams’ (OHTs’) collective achievements to date and preview what’s ahead. Register here.

    ECHO Care of the Elderly: Long-Term Care, starting Apr. 12, 2022
    Hosted by Baycrest, in collaboration with North East Specialized Geriatric Centre and the Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care (CLRI), this free series runs on Tuesdays from April 12 – July 12, 2022. Apply here.

    QI Innovations: Better Data, Better Decisions, Better Outcomes, Apr. 12, 2022
    Free conference hosted by Excellence through Quality Improvement Project (E-QIP). Learn more here.

    IPAC Central West: IPAC Primary Care CoP, Apr. 20, 2022
    Hosted by Public Health Ontario, IPAC Implementation and Support Team. Register here.

  • Bits & Pieces: member stories, farewell to Sandeep and more

    Bits & Pieces: member stories, farewell to Sandeep and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Member stories
    • Farewell to Sandeep Gill
    • Seeking Director of Policy and Stakeholder Relations- deadline Mar. 25
    • Reminder – Ontario Health and Primary Care, MHA CoE, and HCNS, April 1
    • Reminder- Your Voice is Important: Election Campaign Training with Enterprise Canada, Apr. 6, 2022
    • The second anniversary and more
    • Ontario government seeking input on Anti-Racism Strategic Plan
    • Launch of QIP Navigator for 2022/23- drop-in sessions available
    • Upcoming events regarding COVID Recovery and more

    Member stories

    City of Lakes FHT– has developed a new Strategic Plan for 2022-25- EN and FR

    Lakehead NPLC– Lakehead Nurse Practitioner-led Clinic plans to take on 1,600 more patients

    Haldimand FHT– Haldimand FHT receives over $900k from province. Press release here.

    These last two are part of the Ontario government investment of $6.2 million across 32 primary care teams. Further details are coming, but if you are one of these teams, please send us any press releases, articles, etc. so we can spread the good news.

    Sandeep perches on edge of desk with her hands in her lap wearing a suit

     

    Farewell to Sandeep Gill

    It is with genuinely mixed feelings we announce that Sandeep Gill will be leaving AFHTO for a new role in the acute sector.

    Sandeep has been with AFHTO for nearly three years, most recently as Manager, Quality and Knowledge Translation.  So many have you had the pleasure of working with her or attended the webinars she has organized over the last few years. She has also helped AFHTO grow its research portfolio by securing several research opportunities which have also led to a few publications.

    We’re going to miss Sandeep but know she will bring so much to her new team. Please join us in giving her our sincerest best wishes. Her last day with AFHTO will be Friday, April 8th – any questions related to her work can be directed to info@afhto.ca.

    If anyone is interested in joining our team in a similar role, you can find details here. Deadline April 1, 2022.

     

     

    Seeking Director of Policy and Stakeholder Relations- deadline Mar. 25

    We’re growing! The Director of Policy and Stakeholder Relations will monitor and respond to relevant government activity, analyze government legislation and regulations that impacts primary care, health system restructuring and team-based care ensuring that AFHTO and its member voices are considered in the development and implementation of policy and advocacy by aligning with AFHTO’s strategic directions and delivering messaging that is consistent with AFHTO and the primary care sector’s public policy agenda, by positioning comprehensive team-based primary care as the foundation of the health care system.

    Learn more and apply by Mar. 25, 2022, for this two year position.

    Reminder – Ontario Health and Primary Care, MHA CoE, and HCNS, April 1

    AFHTO has arranged for an update and conversation with Ontario Health on its role in supporting primary care, the work being led through the Mental Health and Addictions Centre of Excellence (MHA CoE), and the vision for OH’s Healthcare Navigation Service (HCNS). Register here to hear from senior decision makers at OH talk about how they are planning to support primary care through the pandemic recovery.

    Reminder- Your Voice is Important: Election Campaign Training with Enterprise Canada, Apr. 6, 2022

    AFHTO Executive Committee members and CEO meet with NDP MPP France Gélinas

    The provincial election is just over three months away. Now is the time for local candidates to hear from you!

    If you have any questions or need support, please email advocacy@afhto.ca.

    The second anniversary and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Ontario government seeking input on Anti-Racism Strategic Plan

    The Ontario government is seeking input as it launches a review of the province’s Anti-Racism Strategic Plan. You can find more details and submit feedback here (FR). Deadline May 4, 2022.

    Launch of QIP Navigator for 2022/23- drop-in sessions available

    The Quality Improvement Plan (QIP) online submission platform, QIP Navigator, has opened for 2022/23 QIP submissions. It will remain open until June 30, 2022. To support the process, Ontario Health will be hosting drop-in sessions on Zoom. Register here.

    If you have any questions, please contact QIP@ontariohealth.ca.

    COVID Recovery, Mar. 25, 2022

    41st in the series ‘Changing the way we work’ for OCFP’s COVID-19 CoP for Family Physicians. Register here.

    COVID-19 and indoor air quality – how community spaces can reduce transmission using ventilation, filtration, and ultra-violet disinfection

    Hosted by the Alliance and IPHCC, this April 5 webinar features two experts in indoor air quality from the University of Toronto. Want to get started now? Dr. Siegel and Dr. Li have shared five great things you can do to improve air quality and reduce airborne transmission of COVID-19.

    Diabetes Care: Tools and Resources to Support Mental Health Needs, Apr. 8, 2022
    Hosted by Ontario Health and moderated by Dr. David Kaplan. Find out more here.

    Cannabis and Older Adults
    Free, asynchronous, accredited eLearning modules by Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health (CCSMH) (English version) are now available. The French modules will be available Spring 2022. Find out more here.

    QI Innovations: Better Data, Better Decisions, Better Outcomes, Apr. 12, 2022
    Free conference hosted by Excellence through Quality Improvement Project (E-QIP). Learn more here.

  • Bits & Pieces: Happy Nutrition Month and more

    Bits & Pieces: Happy Nutrition Month and more

    Your Weekly News & Updates

    In This Issue  
    • Happy Nutrition Month
    • Where do we go from here? Understanding the impact of preventive screening backlogs video
    • Implications for primary care with the lifting of COVID measures and more
    • Transitions from youth to adult health care services quality standard
    • OCFP Awards – call for nominations extended to Mar. 20
    • Upcoming events including Ontario Health and Primary Care, MHA CoE, and HCNS, and more

    Unlock the potential of food Ingredients fora healthier tomorrow

     

     

    Happy Nutrition Month

    March is Nutrition Month, and today is Dietitian’s Day. We appreciate our teams’ registered dietitians, their ongoing commitment to teamwork and helping patients create a healthier future. #YourFutureIsHealthy

     

     

     

    Where do we go from here? Understanding the impact of preventive screening backlogs video

    On March 9 Choosing Wisely hosted a talk focused on the impact of screening delays in primary care related to the pandemic as part of their monthly conversation series. You can watch the recording with Drs. David Kaplan and Guylène Thériault here.

    Implications for primary care with the lifting of COVID measures and more

    Recent updates include:

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

    Transitions from youth to adult health care services quality standard

    Ontario Health (Quality) has released the Transitions From Youth to Adult Health Care Services Quality Standard, developed in partnership with the Provincial Council for Maternal and Child Health (PCMCH). If you have any questions, please contact qualitystandards@ontariohealth.ca.

    OCFP Awards – call for nominations extended to Mar. 20
    Nominate your colleagues for an OCFP award. Multiple categories ae open, including regional Family Physician of the Year. New for 2022 – Ontario family physicians can self nominate in any OCFP Award category. Deadline now Mar. 20, 2022.

    Vaccine Hesitancy for People who are Pregnant, Lactating or Planning to Become Pregnant, Mar. 17, 2022

    Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is collaborating with the Canadian Vaccination Evidence Resource and Exchange Centre (CANVax) for this webinar. Register here.

    COVID Recovery, Mar. 25, 2022

    41st in the series ‘Changing the way we work’ for OCFP’s COVID-19 CoP for Family Physicians. Register here.

    Ontario Health and Primary Care, MHA CoE, and HCNS, April 1

    AFHTO has arranged for an update and conversation with Ontario Health on its role in supporting primary care, the work being led through the Mental Health and Addictions Centre of Excellence (MHA CoE), and the vision for OH’s Healthcare Navigation Service (HCNS). Register here.

    COVID-19 and indoor air quality – how community spaces can reduce transmission using ventilation, filtration, and ultra-violet disinfection

    Hosted by the Alliance and IPHCC, this April 5 webinar features two experts in indoor air quality from the University of Toronto. Want to get started now? Dr. Siegel and Dr. Li have shared five great things you can do to improve air quality and reduce airborne transmission of COVID-19.

    Your Voice is Important: Election Campaign Training with Enterprise Canada, Apr. 6, 2022

    The provincial election is just over three months away. Now is the time for local candidates to hear from you!

    If you have any questions or need support, please email advocacy@afhto.ca.

    Diabetes Care: Tools and Resources to Support Mental Health Needs, Apr. 8, 2022
    Hosted by Ontario Health and moderated by Dr. David Kaplan. Find out more here.