Ultimate Blogging Championship

Tag: infection prevention and control

  • QI in Action eBulletin #123: HFHT Green Initiative, Clinically Appropriate Use of Virtual Care Guidelines

    In this Issue:

    • The HFHT Green Initiative
    • Clinically Appropriate Use of Virtual Care- Guidance for Primary Care
    • Primary care clinicians can how directly refer frontline health workers to psychological practitioners for MOH-covered psychological treatment
    • Evidence2Practice Ontario Program
    • Upcoming Events

    The HFHT Green Initiative
    Content below developed by Hamilton FHT

    The HFHT Green Initiative is an interprofessional team developing practical solutions to improve patient healthcare 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.

    Since its launch in 2019, this project has supported environmental efforts in 19 different Ontario Family Health Teams as well as additional primary care teams across Ontario and Canada and has helped direct the efforts of our local OHT as well as national sustainable health care initiatives such as CASCADES. For more information, please contact the HFHT Green Team at green.team@hamiltonfht.ca.

    The Hamilton FHT’s Green Initiative recently presented a disease prevention webinar highlighting practical tools that will make cancer screening and smoking cessation easier in both the clinical setting and for QI projects. Please watch this 20 min webinar recording to hear family physician and project lead Dr. Meghan Davis speak about:

    • Understanding how cancer screening/smoking cessation is good for our patients and the environment
    • Accessing a cancer screening dashboard for teams and individual practices  
    • The Screening Activity Report
    • Finding patients who were lost to follow-up after screening positive
    • A new digital patient communication pathway for ordering FITs
    • Managing colonoscopy results
    • Providing paps: Pathway for interprofessional health care training & updated guidelines
    • Guidelines for mammograms post-COVID-19 vaccine
    • Videos for your waiting room
    • Helping patients to quit smoking

    Clinically Appropriate Use of Virtual Care- Guidance for Primary Care
    Ontario Health recently released new virtual care guidance materials for primary care clinicians. The “Clinically Appropriate Use of Virtual Care Guidance for Primary Care” aims to help primary care clinicians feel supported in the decisions they make related to the planning and delivery of virtual care. This is ‘phase one’ of the virtual care guidance for primary care. More detailed virtual care guidance will be released in the future, including materials focused on other specialties and areas of care. The virtual care guidance materials can be accessed here in English and French. Click here to watch the Ontario Health Community of Practice recording from November 9 where Dr. Kaplan and Dr. Bordman speak about the guidance document.

    Primary care clinicians can now directly refer frontline health workers to psychological practitioners for MOH-covered psychological treatment
    Content below developed by Ontario Psychological Association

    Primary care providers can now refer patients directly to psychologists from their Electronic Medical Record system (EMR) enabling increased access to timely specialized mental health services. The new development is made possible through a partnership between the Ontario Psychological Association and Ontario’s eServices Program which saw the integration of the Ocean and Strata Health e-referral platforms thereby allowing family physicians, nurse practitioners, and other primary care providers to connect with psychologists.
     
    The Covid-19 Psychological Support Program, funded by the Ministry of Health, ensures that frontline health workers can receive up to 12 psychotherapy sessions with a registered psychologist or psychological associate at no cost. Primary care clinicians wishing to learn more can email opa@psych.on.ca or read our e-referral guidelines for more details.
     
    This work builds on a prior collaboration between the Association of Family Health Teams of Ontario (AFHTO), the Nurse Practitioners’ Association of Ontario (NPAO), the Ontario College of Family Physicians (OCFP), the Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic Association, Ontario Medical Association’s (OMA) section of General & Family Practice, and the Alliance for Healthier Communities. For a demo, please click here.  

    Evidence2Practice Ontario Program
    Content below developed by Centre for Effective Practice

    CEP is proud to lead the launch of Evidence2Practice Ontario (E2P) and its first set of digital tools and supports for heart failure. Co-led with the eHealth Centre of Excellence and North York General Hospital, E2P is a province-wide initiative developed to strengthen and support the delivery of evidence-based care and best practice in primary and acute care settings. The first E2P tool, developed in the Telus PSS EMR, focuses on enhancing care of patients with suspected or diagnosed heart failure.

    CEP’s renowned academic detailing service and accompanying clinical tools on heart failure are available to further support primary care providers. Tools and supports in additional EMRs (e.g., Oscar and Accuro QHR) will follow in 2023, focused on supporting adult patients living with major depression, anxiety disorders and type 2 diabetes. Click here to learn more.

     

    Upcoming Events

    Evidence2Practice Ontario
    Friday, November 18, 2022, 12-1 pm
    Evidence2Practice Ontario is co-hosting a webinar with Ontario Health: Dr. David Kaplan, Vice President, Quality at Ontario Health, and Young Lee, Vice President, Corporate Performance and Digital Health Innovation at North York General Hospital will provide an overview of how this key initiative is embedding quality standards into health information systems to support clinician adoption. Register here.

    CCHL Webinar: Leading Climate Resilient and Low Carbon, Sustainable Health Systems
    Tuesday, November 22, 2022, 12-1 pm
    Climate and environmental change pose accelerating and complex threats for 21st century health systems- and these modern health systems are a significant contributor to global carbon emissions. Increasingly, the executive boards, and healthcare staff leading Canada’s health systems are recognizing the need to address these challenges. New Leadership and Governance standards include explicit requirements to consider environmental stewardship, with implications for patient engagement, enterprise risk management plans, capital investment plans, talent management and acquisition, procurement policies and practices and budgeting. Click here to register.

    Infection Prevention and Control in Primary Care “Spread Prevention- Not Infection”
    Wednesday, November 23, 2022, 12:30-2 pm
    The Hamilton Family Health Team’s Patient and Provider Safety committee has planned a virtual IPAC information session with their partners from Public Health Ontario and Hamilton Public Health Services. The content shared will be focused on increasing the learner’s knowledge of current IPAC trends as well as providing practical strategies for primary care providers to enhance IPAC practices in their clinical setting. Click here to register.

    Supporting Caregivers Supports Patients- The Critical Role of Primary Care in Preventing Caregiver Burnout
    Thursday, November 24, 2022, 12-1 pm
    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. Click here to register.

    Highlights and Implications of the Ontario Science Table’s Brief on Primary Care
    Wednesday, November 30, 2022, 7:45-8:45 am
    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. To register, click here.

    Climate Conscious Inhaler Prescribing
    Thursday, December 8, 2022, 12-1 pm
    This webinar will explore the carbon footprint of healthcare systems and how inhalers contribute to it, examine two problems related to inhaler prescribing and imagine practice change that results in an immediate reduction in emissions: “high value, low carbon care”. To register, click here.

     

    In Case You Missed It: Check out eBulletin #122 or other back issues here!
    Questions? Comments? Contact us at improve@afhto.ca.

  • Ministry Communications Toolkit, OCFP Resources and Science Table Brief on Primary Care Webinar

    Dear Members,

    As we move into another fall season where we are seeing hospital emergency department surges due to an increase in respiratory viral illnesses in Ontario, it’s even more critical to ensure everyone gets their flu shot and stays up to date on their COVID19 booster shots. Flu shots for the general public should be available as of November 1st through primary care offices and pharmacies – if you are having issues with accessing your vaccines, please connect with your PHU to facilitate distribution. As we prepare for what may be a difficult fall, we wanted to share with you some resources and tools you may find helpful.

    From the Ministry of Health
    The Ministry has developed a toolkit of communication resources with key messages and materials to help ensure Ontarians have a clear understanding of the COVID-19 booster dose recommendations and the importance of why and when they should receive a booster dose. Booster doses are recommended to everyone aged five and over to help restore protection that may have decreased since their last dose:

     

    • Individuals aged five and over who are not considered high risk for severe COVID-19 illness are recommended to receive a booster dose six months since their last dose.
    • It’s strongly recommended that the following individuals get a booster dose after three months:

    The toolkit includes:

    The Ministry has shared the most recent slide deck from October 14, 2022, which contains the provincial dashboard on COVID vaccination by age groups and priority populations. Note that Page 4 contains a Flow Diagram for COVID-19 Booster Vaccination – When Should you get a Booster Dose that may be helpful when counseling patients.  

    The Ministry also shared the Indigenous Vaccination Dashboard which lays out the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine to Indigenous adults, including Operation Remote Immunity. This includes First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and urban populations 5+. The IPHCC has done tremendous work in addressing vaccine hesitancy and increasing vaccination in the Indigenous communities using culturally safe learnings and approaches. Members are encouraged to read through the work done to date and to utilize the rich resources that are available for use.

    Other updated Ministry of Health resources you may find helpful:

    •  COVID-19 vaccine guidance (MOH, October 13) (EN, FR)
      • Monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech Primary Series for 6 months –4 years
      • Updated recommendations for those who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding (alignment with NACI)
      • Bivalent Pfizer-BioNTech booster for 12 years and older (available this week in Ontario)
      • “There is no preference between bivalent Pfizer-BioNTech and bivalent Moderna for booster doses in individuals 18 years of age and older”
    • Storage and handling of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccines (MOH, updated October 13) (EN)
    • COVID-19 vaccine consent and notice form (MOH, updated October 6) (EN, FR)
    • COVID-19 guidance: Long-term care homes, retirement homes, and other congregate living settings for public health units (MOH, updated October 6) (EN, FR)
    • COVID-19 provincial testing guidance (MOH, updated October 6) (EN, FR)

    Other Helpful Tools and Resources from the OCFP

    The Ontario College of Family Physicians (OCFP) has developed several tools that you may find helpful when managing patients with respiratory symptoms in your clinics:

    From Ontario Health
    As noted in our October 6th communique to EDs and admin leads, Ontario Health had sent out a memo on October 3 on Evusheld, a therapy against COVID-19. The memo was for healthcare providers and outlines what Evusheld is, who can receive Evusheld, and how to access it for eligible patients. It also includes a link to a revised toolkit for providers who may be prescribing or administering Evusheld.

    If you have not seen it, the memo with all the resource links can be found here – EN FR.  The memo also references the following resources:

    • Information about Evusheld (tixagevimab and cilgavimab): Reference for health care providers who may be prescribing or administering Evusheld EN
    • Patient handout on Evusheld EN FR

    Events and Webinars

    Breakfast Webinar: Highlights and Implications of the Ontario Science Table’s Brief on Primary Care
    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:

    Join on November 30th at 7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. to hear from key primary care leaders as they share some of the more significant findings and implications. Panelists include:

    • Dr. Imaan Bayoumi: Assistant Professor of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences at Queens University, Family Physician, Member of the Ontario Science Table
    • Dr. Danielle Martin: Chair of the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Toronto, Family Physician at Women’s College Hospital, Member of the Ontario Science Table
    • Dr. Noah Ivers: Family Physician at Women’s College Hospital, Scientist at the Women’s College Research Institute, Associate Professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Toronto, Member of the Ontario Science Table
    • Dr. Jennifer Rayner: Director of Research and Evaluation at the Alliance for Healthier Communities, Adjunct Research Professor at Western University, Contributor to the Ontario Science Table Briefs on Primary Care

    IPAC for Non-clinical Staff (PH Ontario)
    This course is designed specifically for people who don’t have formal health care training and work in a congregate living environment. It will provide learners with the IPAC knowledge they need to keep themselves, their patients, and their co-workers safe from infections in workplaces like shelters, group homes, residential treatment centres and other facilities. Participants will learn how to conduct a risk assessment, perform proper hand hygiene, when and how to use personal protective equipment safely, the basics of administrative and environmental infection control measures, and best practices for outbreak management. Click here to learn more.

    Thank you again 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 and Happy Halloween.

    Yours in good health,

    The AFHTO Team

  • 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: 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.

  • Infection Control Resources and Tools

    Originally posted Mar 10, 2020. Last updated June 15, 2022 *NEW*

    We have created a list of infection prevention and control tools and resources. New and updated resources will be added to the top of each list as they become available.

     

    IPAC shareables

    Public Health Infection Prevention and Control resources

    Public Health Ontario and other organizations have provided Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) resources to help build capacity in primary care:

    Personal Protection 

     

    Clinical Office Practices 

    For general and public-facing infection recommendations, see the COVID-19 information for Patients, Caregivers and the Public page

     

    Screening Tools  *NEW*

    Guidance
     
    EMR Screening Forms & Toolbars
    • Telus PS Toolbar | Dr. Adam Stewart, Central Hastings FHT/FHO
    • Telus PS & OSCAR | eCE, Updated April 22, 2020
    • P&P | Hamilton FHT
      • Instructions on how to import here
    • Accuro
      • The form has been published to the Accuro database; search for “Coronavirus COVID-19 Screening April22202” – created by eCE 
    Other Screening tools

     

    Testing

    Other Resources

    Research

     

    Some resources have restricted access: * Members-only resources, ** Triad-only resources

     

    Return to: Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates

    Disclaimer: The information in this resource centre represents general guidance developed by AFHTO and their partners, gathered through a rapid, non-systematic scan of relevant and valuable guidelines with an intent to support you in a timely fashion. The information reflects best knowledge at the time of writing and is subject to revision based on rapidly changing circumstances and conditions. As new best practice evidence emerges, recommendations may evolve. The resources above should be considered supplementary guidance and are not meant to replace clinical judgement or organizational directives.

  • 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.

  • 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.