Meeting with pricing officials shows that government's true goal is to slash prices so low that no new medicines will come to Canada
OTTAWA, Dec. 10, 2019 /CNW/ - The changes to how the Patented Medicines Prices Review Board (PMPRB) calculates maximum prices allowed for such treatments in Canada, approved in the last days of the previous majority Liberal government, are "even worse than feared," stated patient representatives after a four-hour meeting with PMPRB officials in Ottawa on December 10.
"We can only conclude that this strategy is tied to the publicly funded pharmacare proposals, also supported by the previous government," said Durhane Wong-Rieger, President & CEO of the Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders. "It will be a drug plan that includes no new drugs and perhaps eliminates some existing ones."
Science is delivering on new medicines that really do cure cancer, restore sight to the blind, prevent bleeds, and stop the progression of crippling diseases. And while every country is considering how to pay for these breakthroughs in treatment, only Canada is introducing draconian measures designed to drop list prices by more than 20% and, more importantly, actual prices by 40% to 90%.
If every developed country took the same approach as Canada, research and development of new medicines would literally grind to a halt as investors directed their funds elsewhere. However, because Canada represents only 2% of the global drug market and we are the only country imposing such drastic price cuts, the net result will be that companies will simply choose not to bring the new medicines to Canada.
While the federal government dismisses these concerns as "fear mongering", in fact, preliminary survey results released by Life Sciences Ontario (https://bit.ly/2Ptx6YY) lends substance to these fears, with some pharmaceutical companies already stopping plans to launch new medicines in Canada and one company indicating it may be forced to withdraw a first-line therapy because the new pricing formula will place the Canadian price far below those of other developed countries.
Among those who will lose out are Canadians with rare disorders, many who are waiting for their first-ever treatment. Toronto lawyer Chris MacLeod, who is living with cystic fibrosis, is hoping the next therapy will come to Canada. "If this pricing scheme had been in place five years ago when the first drug for CF was available, I would probably not be alive today. Now we are hearing that the company making the next therapy is reconsidering whether it will launch in Canada. Even a delay of two years may be too long. For patients like me, having access as soon as possible to a new medicine is a matter of life or death."
Other groups are also supporting this demand. "Canadians with gastrointestinal diseases and disorders have relied on new medications to help improve their quality of life greatly, and even save lives, over the past 15 years, but we know there are many newer and better treatments on the horizon," said Gail Attara, President and CEO of the Gastrointestinal Society (www.badgut.org). "We can't afford to have Canadians miss out on access to new therapies that could vastly improve their quality of life, but this will certainly happen unless these harsh pricing regulations are changed."
Wong-Rieger recalls that "both Gail and I were members of the Steering Committee that sat in closed-door sessions over a period of nine months, supposedly providing advice to the PMPRB on the proposed regulations but it was clear that they were not open to other options that would manage prices AND support introduction of new medicines. We were so frustrated that we each wrote letters to the Prime Minister, calling for his intervention but the government was seemingly willing to sacrifice new therapies for Canadian patients in order to support a publicly funded drug plan. The consultation was a total sham."
About the Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders (CORD)
CORD is Canada's national network for organizations representing all those with rare disorders. CORD provides a strong common voice to advocate for health policy and a healthcare system that works for those with rare disorders. CORD works with governments, researchers, clinicians and industry to promote research, diagnosis, treatment and services for all rare disorders in Canada. For more information on CORD, visit: www.raredisorders.ca
SOURCE Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders (CORD)
TORONTO, Dec. 10, 2019 /CNW/ - The following is a statement by Jim Keon, President of the Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association (CGPA) on the signing of a revised Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) today by the three countries:
"Earlier today the Trump Administration and House Democrats announced they have reached an agreement on CUSMA, including several improvements to the pharmaceutical intellectual property aspects of the agreement.
The CGPA expects that such improvements are included in the revised CUSMA signed today by Canada, the United States and Mexico. Such improvements would represent an important win for the Canadian health-care system and patients' access to affordable prescription medicines in Canada and throughout North America.
Canada's Parliamentary Budget Officer has estimated that the concessions made by Canada in the CUSMA signed in 2018 would have cost Canadians as much as $169 million more per year for prescription medicines in the first year alone after they came into effect. The CGPA expects that this potential impact will be eliminated with the changes.
The removal of the requirement for 10 years of market exclusivity for biologic drugs, which could have delayed the future introduction of new biosimilar biologic medicines in Canada, is of particular importance to Canadian patients, public drug plans and employers that sponsor drug benefit plans for their employees.
The 2018 CUSMA concessions also could have delayed the future introduction of new biosimilar biologic medicines to Canada. Biologic drugs account for more than 30 per cent of Canada's prescription drug costs, but are used to fill less than two per cent of all Canadian prescriptions. Biosimilars are an important solution to this cost challenge. They are approved by Health Canada, and provide safe, effective and therapeutically-equivalent treatments to their reference biologic drugs.
The generic and biosimilar medicines industries are strong supporters of trade and the elimination of barriers to trade. Moving forward trade negotiations must prioritize measures to provide access to affordable medicines for patients and to foster a competitive business environment for the generic and biosimilar medicines industries.
The CGPA will be undertaking a careful review of the revised CUSMA to ensure that the anticipated changes are fully reflected in the final text of the revised treaty."
About the Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association The Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association (CGPA) represents Canada's generic pharmaceutical industry. The industry plays an important role in controlling health-care costs in Canada. Generic drugs are dispensed to fill nearly 73 percent of all prescriptions but account for account for less than 20 percent of the $30-billion Canadians spend annually on prescription medicines.
SOURCE Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association
How Preventative Physical Therapy Makes You a Smarter Athlete
Physical therapy isn’t just good for treating existing injuries. Athletes can often use this treatment as a preventative tool to gain an advantage on the competitive field. Here are four ways that preventative physical therapy can make you a smarter athlete.
Injury Prevention
If you’re worried about getting injured while in the game or during training, physical therapy can help prepare your body better for the physical demands of your sport. A qualified physical therapist can put together a personalized plan that can be incorporated into your athletic regimen and will give you a better chance of staying injury-free. This plan may include certain stretches and other manual techniques that the therapist will use to help safeguard muscles, joints and other areas of the body that are prone to injury while engaging in sports.
Diagnosing Muscle Imbalances and Other Abnormalities
A trained physical therapist will be able to look for certain bodily abnormalities that could affect your athletic performance. Any muscle imbalances and other biomechanical flaws that you don’t know that you have can possibly be diagnosed so that you can take corrective measures to make these challenges less difficult for you to manage. By knowing about these shortcomings, you will have a better understanding of what your body can and cannot do and can obtain additional knowledge that will help you perform your best.
Recovery Knowledge
Physical therapy is often an effective tool for helping an athlete’s body recover after a strenuous workout. By actively assisting you in moving your muscles, joints and connective tissues, the physical therapist will help you recover more effectively. Recovering faster and safer with the use of physical therapyis a smart way to stay in the game longer, and you can also be ready sooner for your next practice or tournament by using physical therapy as a recovery tool.
Improved Movements
If you want to train your body to move better to increase your athletic performance, physical therapy can be highly useful. The ways that your physical therapist moves certain parts of your body can help you develop the proper movements and stances that are needed to perform at a high level while decreasing your risk for injury.You can make yourself a smarter, better-prepared athlete by simply incorporating preventative physical therapy into your plan. The benefits that you’ll enjoy and the knowledge that you’ll attain can help you in many areas of your athletic performance.
Stanford Inn and Resort Offers Personalized Family Workshops to Help Overcome Picky Eating
At this plant-based Mendocino resort children and parents cook together, learn nutrition as a team, and participate in family art and creativity workshops to build long-term healthy living habits MENDOCINO, CA _ The Stanford Inn and Resort, is offering families a chance to grab an apron and get cooking – down to the littlest family members – all in the name of healthy habits.“It’s always the right time to adopt healthy living habits,” said Sid Garza-Hillman, the Wellness ProgramsDirector and Certified Nutritionist. Garza-Hillman is also the author of Raising Healthy Parents: Small Steps, Less Stress, and a Thriving Family. “This vacation package is a unique opportunity for parents, with their children, to slow down, come together, play together, and learn together.” Joan Stanford, Registered Art Therapist and creative play facilitator who leads the creative portion of the program adds, “This is about creating and expanding a healthy lifestyle. Kids really respond to a mutual exploration with their parents. Sid, his wife, and three young kids are living this way and my husband and I raised our two kids, fostering a sense of adventure, curiosity and meeting challenges with creativity. It is a great way to be!” Raising and nurturing a healthy family is challenging. Garza-Hillman, who advocates a predominately whole food, plant-based diet, feels parents are often overwhelmed with what challenges might be involved as well children who are picky eaters and are resistant to new dishes. However, during this fun, exciting, and accessible vacation package, parents and children will receive common sense, science-based information, plus real-life, practical tools that will empower them to establish long-term healthy living habits, resulting in a vibrant and happy home. The skills and techniques they bring home will be manageable and sustainable. The Vibrant Families vacation package is available as an add-on to a three-night minimum stay any time of year! The classes/sessions are taught at the resort over the course of the three days with plenty of down-time to play and explore the breathtaking Mendocino coast, wander the resort’s vast property and educational farm, or head out on one of the resort’s redwood outrigger canoes with the entire family! The Vibrant Families vacation package includes:· Family Cooking Class· Family Art & Creativity Class· Healthy Living Class/Nutrition Class· Establishing Healthy Family Habits Class· Copy of Sid Garza-Hillman’s book - Raising Healthy Parents: Small Steps, Less Stress, and aThriving Family· Copy of The Art of Play: Ignite Your Imagination to Unlock Insight, Healing, and Joy by Joan Stanford· Three Dinners· An “Art Corner” during all classes for infants (and/or siblings who'd like a break) that is within view of parents with art supplies and games This add-on package costs $585/couple + tax (call for single parent pricing) and $150/child (age 4 – 17);Free /child (age 0 – 3). Taxes, gratuities and lodging are additional; a minimum 3-night stay is required.This package is subject to availability; please contact the Stanford Inn and Resort to verify your dates before making your reservation. About Stanford Inn and ResortNestled atop a meadow that overlooks Mendocino Bay, The Stanford Inn and Resort is a luxurious and sustainable destination providing recreation opportunities from nature tours to yoga, and canoeing and kayaking to massage. AAA Four Diamond rated, family owned and operated, the Resort is unique and a great base for exploring the Mendocino Coast while guests may never leave the property, which offers an indoor saltwater pool, full bar, magnificent gardens, award-winning restaurant, and extensive wellness experiences. In addition to being home to a one of a kind Wellness Center with Chinese medicine, nutrition and cooking classes, Massage in the Forest, creative play shops, and various exercise and meditation options, the Inn features a USDA Organic certified farm which provides produce for the Resort’s Ravens Restaurant. The award-winning restaurant serves organic plant-based cuisine that is conscientiously prepared with respect for the land. Family-friendly and pet-friendly, the Stanford Inn Resort offers an array of life-enhancing experiences. All rooms bask in the glow of warm pine, complete with wood-burning fireplaces and private baths. The Resort is also the site of a GROW BIOINTENSIVE® educational farm, attracting students from around the globe to learn how to sustainably grow a complete diet in the smallest amount of space possible. The Resort also hosts the Environmental Leadership Field School, an intensive hands-on and classroom experience that mobilizes future leaders from different fields to support and enhance the environment, biodiversity, and equitable relationships. Stanford Inn and Resort is located at 44850 Comptche Ukiah Road, POB 487, Mendocino, CA 95460; on Facebook at facebook.com/stanford.inn.mendocino.
EMD Serono and the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance Complete Negotiations for MAVENCLAD® (cladribine tablets) for the treatment of Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
This an important next step to ensure broader access to PrMAVENCLAD® for eligible Canadians living with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Dec. 10, 2019 /CNW/ - EMD Serono, the biopharmaceutical business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany in the US and Canada, today announced that it completed negotiations with the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (pCPA) and signed a letter of intent (LOI) for MAVENCLAD (cladribine tablets). MAVENCLAD was approved by Health Canada in November 2017 as monotherapy for the treatment of adult patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) to reduce the frequency of clinical exacerbations and delay the progression of disability.i
This is an important step to ensure broader, equitable and timely access to MAVENCLAD for eligible patients across Canada. The signed LOI allows EMD Serono, Canada to work with participating jurisdictions to implement public funding of MAVENCLAD for eligible RRMS patients, which is currently reimbursed by most private drug insurance plans.
"We're excited to complete the pCPA negotiations and reach an agreement on the terms of public reimbursement for MAVENCLAD," said Gaby Murphy, President & Managing Director, EMD Serono, Canada. "We look forward to working with participating jurisdictions to achieve the timely listing of MAVENCLAD by their respective public drug plans, and ensure broader access to this treatment option for Canadians living with MS."
"Canada has one of the highest rates of MS [multiple sclerosis] in the world," said Dr. Ji-Won Oh, a Neurologist at the St. Michael's Hospital MS Clinic in Toronto. "We are fortunate to have new and innovative MS drugs approved by Health Canada for optimal MS management. Patients need access to new treatment options, and it is encouraging that MAVENCLAD is now a step closer to being available to Canadian RRMS patients who receive their benefits from public drug plans."
About MAVENCLAD MAVENCLAD (cladribine tablets) is a short-course oral therapy that selectively and periodically targets lymphocytes thought to be integral to the pathological process of relapsing MS.ii In November 2017, Health Canada approved MAVENCLAD (cladribine tablets) as monotherapy for the treatment of adult patients with RRMS to reduce the frequency of clinical exacerbations and delay the progression of disability. MAVENCLAD is generally recommended in MS patients who have had an inadequate response to, or are unable to tolerate, one or more therapies for multiple sclerosis.
MAVENCLAD has been approved in 70 countries including the United States, European Union (EU), Australia and Switzerland, for various relapsing MS indications.
The clinical development program of MAVENCLAD in MS comprises more than 12,000 patient years of data with over 2,700 patients included in the clinical trial program, and up to 10 years of observation in some patients. These clinical trials include the Phase III CLARITY, CLARITY extension and ORACLE MS trials, the Phase II ONWARD trial and the PREMIERE Long-term Safety Registry.
About Multiple Sclerosis Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative autoimmune disease in which the myelin sheath around the nerves in the brain and spinal cord are inflamed and often damaged.iii It is estimated that approximately 2.3 million people have MS worldwide.iv Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world with one in 385 people living with the disease.v While symptoms vary, the most common symptoms of MS include extreme fatigue, lack of coordination, weakness, tingling, impaired sensation, vision problems, bladder problems, cognitive impairment and mood changes.vi The relapsing forms of MS are the most common type at the time of diagnosis.vii
About EMD Serono, Canada EMD Serono, Canada, is the Canadian biopharmaceutical business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. EMD Serono, Canada has integrated cutting-edge science, innovative products and devices, and industry-leading patient support and access programs. EMD Serono, Canada has deep expertise in neurology, fertility and endocrinology, as well as a robust pipeline of potential therapies in neurology, oncology, immunology and immuno-oncology. Today, EMD Serono, Canada has more than 100 employees across Canada with headquarters in Mississauga, Ontario.
About Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company, operates across healthcare, life science and performance materials. Around 56,000 employees work to make a positive difference to millions of people's lives every day by creating more joyful and sustainable ways to live. From advancing gene editing technologies and discovering unique ways to treat the most challenging diseases to enabling the intelligence of devices – the company is everywhere. In 2018, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, generated sales of € 14.8 billion in 66 countries.
The company holds the global rights to the name and trademark "Merck" internationally. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the business sectors of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany operate as EMD Serono in healthcare, MilliporeSigma in life science, and EMD Performance Materials. Since its founding 1668, scientific exploration and responsible entrepreneurship have been key to the company's technological and scientific advances. To this day, the founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed company.
Elderly people should aim to keep up step count this winter
Just two weeks of inactivity increases body fat, and harms muscles and bones
UNDER STRICT EMBARGO UNTIL 01.00 GMT 12 DECEMBER 2019
Not for publication or broadcast before this time
As the temperature continues to drop this winter, it is harder to find the motivation to get off the couch and out for a walk. New research from the University of Liverpool, presented at The Physiological Society’s early career conference Future Physiology 2019 shows that after just two weeks of reduced physical activity (around 1500 steps per day), older adults lose significant amounts of muscle which coincides with substantial gains in body fat percentage, especially around the waist.
Importantly, the gains in fat within the muscle tissue reduces its quality, leading to significant losses in the muscle strength. The inactivity period also decreased bone mineral density by increasing how much of the bone is reabsorbed by the body.
Most research on physical inactivity looks at extreme forms, such as space flight, bedrest or immobilisation, which isn’t relevant to most healthy people. This study is unique in that it looked at only two weeks of a low step-count of 1500 per day in both young and older adults, which might happen to people who spend an increased amount of time within their time at home which could be due to illness, adverse weather or even just over the festive period.
Before the two-week period of inactivity, both groups (26 younger participants and 21 older) were doing the same amount of physical activity; over a four-day period used as a metric, each participant was doing over 10,000 steps per day but did not partake in vigorous exercise.
The study was looking at whether the health of older adults was more affected by the period of inactivity, which is important given we all lose muscle mass, strength and bone during ageing. These changes lead to a reduced ability to perform daily activities and can lead to chronic health conditions. This is especially relevant as we are now living for longer, while the time spent in good health has not increased to the same extent.
Although the findings showed that muscle size, muscle strength and bone mass equally reduced in the young and old groups after two weeks with both groups gaining similar amounts of fat in their muscles and around their waist, the older adults had less muscle and more fat to start with. Therefore, these changes are likely to have more of a detrimental impact within the ageing population compared with younger adults.
Furthermore, there were two critical physiological measures that substantially declined in the older group but not the young: cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and mitochondrial function. CRF refers to the efficiency with which oxygen is supplied to muscles during sustained physical activity, and it is influenced by cardiovascular and respiratory health. Low CRF is usually found in those with poor physical health, with these individuals being more likely to develop diseases at a younger age. Mitochondrial function, the energy production of our cells, is important for muscle and metabolic health. The results suggest that these declines in CRF and mitochondrial function could play an important role in the loss of muscle mass and strength and gains in muscle and body fat during physical inactivity.
Juliette Norman, one of the authors of the research said:
“The severe impact of short-term inactivity on our health is hugely important to communicate to people. If the gym is hard to get to, people should be encouraged to just meet 10,000 steps as even this can guard against reductions in muscle and bone health, as well as maintaining healthy levels of body fat.”
Juliette Norman is available for interviews during the Future Physiology 2019 conference, taking place 17-19 December at Liverpool John Moores University. Please email her to discuss timing.
The Physiological Society brings together over 4,000 scientists from over 60 countries. The Society promotes physiology with the public and parliament alike. It supports physiologists by organising world-class conferences and offering grants for research and also publishes the latest developments in the field in its three leading scientific journals, The Journal of Physiology, Experimental Physiology and Physiological Reports. www.physoc.org
This study was funded by the Centre of Integrated Research into Musculoskeletal Ageing (CIMA).
CHPCA and CSPCP - Joint Call to Action
OTTAWA, Dec. 9, 2019 /CNW/ - Due to ongoing confusion amongst the general public regarding Hospice Palliative Care (HPC) and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD), the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA) and the Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians (CSPCP) would like to clarify the relationship of hospice palliative care and MAiD.
Healthcare articles and the general media continue to conflate and thus misrepresent these two fundamentally different practices. MAiD is not part of hospice palliative care; it is not an "extension" of palliative care [i] nor is it one of the tools "in the palliative care basket".[ii] National and international hospice palliative care organizations are unified in the position that MAiD is not part of the practice of hospice palliative care.[iii] [iv] [v] [vi] [vii] [viii] [ix] [x]
Hospice palliative care and MAiD substantially differ in multiple areas including in philosophy, intention and approach.[xi] Hospice palliative care focuses on improving quality of life and symptom management through holistic person-centered care for those living with life threatening conditions. Hospice palliative care sees dying as a normal part of life and helps people to live and die well. Hospice palliative care does not seek to hasten death or intentionally end life. In MAiD, however, the intention is to address suffering by ending life through the administration of a lethal dose of drugs at an eligible person's request.
Less than 30% of Canadians have access to high quality hospice palliative care, yet more than 90% of all deaths in Canada would benefit from it.[xii] [xiii] Despite this startling discrepancy, access to hospice palliative care is not considered a fundamental healthcare right for Canadians. In contrast, MAiD has been deemed a right through the Canada Health Act, even though deaths from MAiD account for less than 1.5% of all deaths in Canada.[xiv]
We call on the federal and provincial governments to prioritize funding and improve access to hospice palliative care in Canada, and to support the implementation and action plan of the National Framework for Palliative Care in Canada.[xv] Canadians must have a right to assistance in living with hospice palliative care, and not just a right to termination of life.
Sincerely,
(signed) Sharon Baxter, MSW, Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA)
(signed) Leonie Herx MD PhD FCFP (PC), Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians (CSPCP)
___________________________________ [i] Buchman, Dr. Sandy. "Bringing Compassion to Medicine and to the CMA." Canadian Medical Association, 12 Oct. 2019, https://www.cma.ca/dr-sandy-buchman. [ii] Kutcher, Dr. Matt. "Navigating MAiD on PEI." Canadian Medical Association, 19 Nov. 2018, https://www.cma.ca/dr-matt-kutcher. [iii] World Health Organization (WHO). "WHO Definition of Palliative Care." World Health Organization (WHO), https://www.who.int/cancer/palliative/definition/en/. [iv] De Lima L, Woodruff R, et al, International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care "Position Statement Euthanasia and Physician-Assisted Suicide." JPM Vol 20, 1:1 -7. [v] Radbruch, Lukas, et al. "Euthanasia and Physician-Assisted Suicide: A White Paper from the European Association for Palliative Care." Palliative Medicine, vol. 30, no. 2, 2015, pp. 104–116., doi:10.1177/0269216315616524. [vi] Australia and New Zealand Society of Palliative Medicine (ANZSPM) "Position Statement on the Practice of Euthanasia and Physician Assisted Suicide." 31 Mar. 2017 [vii] Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association "Policy on Hospice Palliative Care and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD)." Jun. 2019 [viii] Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians "Key Messages: Palliative Care and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID)." May 2019. [ix] "Statement on Physician-Assisted Dying." American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM), 24 Jul. 2016, http://aahpm.org/positions/pad. [x] Canadian Medical Association. "Palliative Care (Policy)." 2016 [xi] Shariff M & Gingerich M. "Endgame: Philosophical, Clinical and Legal Distinctions between Palliative Care and Termination of Life." Vol. 85, Second Series Supreme Court Law Review 225. 2018 [xii] Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada and Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association. "The Way Forward National Framework; a Roadmap for an Integrated Palliative Approach to Care." Mar. 2015. [xiii] Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians . "How to Improve Palliative Care in Canada - A Call to Action for Federal, Provincial, Territorial, Regional and Local Decision-Makers." Nov. 2016. [xiv] "Fourth Interim Report on Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada." Government of Canada, Health Canada, Apr. 2019, https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/publications/health-system-services/medical-assistance-dying-interim-report-april-2019.html. [xv] "Framework on Palliative Care in Canada." Government of Canada, Health Canada, 4 Dec. 2018, https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/health-care-system/reports-publications/palliative-care/framework-palliative-care-canada.html.
SOURCE Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association
Psychologist Offers Your Resolution Free Guide to a Happier, Healthier You in 2020
With the start of a new year it is important to reflect back on the prior year, assess what went well, what didn’t and decide where you want to go next. It takes a lot of mental toughness, self-love, and discipline to create the life you want. Simply coasting along on cruise control reacting to life can lead to victim mentality and stagnation. Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist. She shares key ways to get mentally fit for the new year so you can move forward successfully. In doing so, you don’t have to swear yourself to resolutions and feel like a failure if you don’t achieve them. Just think about the life you want to create and take small steps.
\Clear clutter.
Look at your surroundings. If you have junk drawers galore, a messy car, countertops and cabinets that are full of stuff you don’t even use, it is time to clear the clutter. According to Dr. Hafeez, “cluttered spaces reflect a cluttered mind. If you want to wipe the slate clean to allow room for new people and circumstances that serve you, you must get your mind clear. Many of my patients who describe themselves as anxious, stressed or even depressed say they feel better when they start clearing up their physical space.”
Eat mind-boosting foods.
Mental fitness also has to do with how well our minds work. A loss of memory or the ability to concentrate or focus can easily shift with an improved diet. “Research finds that along with other benefits, foods rich in Omega-3, such as some fish and nuts, as well as those full of antioxidants can help protect the brain from memory decline. “Eating more fish such as salmon and add fruits such as blackberries and blueberries to your diet can help. The good news is that brain-boosting foods include delicious options such as chocolate, guacamole (avocados) and sunflower seeds.
Color! The adult coloring book bandwagon is a good one to jump on. According to Dr. Hafeez coloring requires a total focus on the present. The repetitive motion of coloring provides relief from stress and anxiety by entering a meditative state. “Not everyone can sit still and breathe for 15 minutes per day, but they certainly can color. It’s absolutely a fun way to achieve mindfulness and shake off the day,” explains Dr. Hafeez.
Apologize and forgive.
A fast way to mental fitness is forgiveness! “Carrying around resentments and guilt wears us down and can lead to serious illness such as cancer or stroke. If you experienced a tough break up, divorce or perhaps the 2016 political climate led to arguments and lost friends, reach out apologize and seek forgiveness and move on. Remember, forgiveness doesn’t mean you condone hurtful behavior. Forgiveness frees you and the other person making it easier to move forward.
Learn something new.
Challenge your brain by learning a new language, how to cook, paint, do Tai Chi. Pick something you think would be interesting or useful to learn and learn it. If you avoided cooking your whole life, learning the basics will serve your brain very well. According to Dr. Hafeez, “the more we can activate the cognitive functions of our brains the better our short and long-term memory and hand-eye coordination will be.”
Plan and prepare more meals at home
Instead of committing to a strict diet, incorporate more home-cooked meals into your repertoire. Research shows that food made at home has less fat, calories, and sugar than meals eaten out, even if you’re not specifically trying to prepare and eat healthier meals.
Set a goal to make one new friend a month
As we get older we tend to get stagnant with our friendships and not reach beyond our formed circles anymore. Make an effort to engage the person you always see at your spin class or pass everyday in the hallway at your co-working space. Bringing new people into the fold can add spice and variety to your life.
Do something that scares you
Dr. Hafeez does not mean putting your life at risk. If public speaking has been a thorn in your side, take a class in it, and they put your lessons to use. If you would love to try snow skiing but have been too timid- take a lesson. Has the travel bug bit you but you don’t have a companion? Throw a dart at a map and travel (safety first) wherever the dart lands. It does not matter what you do, however big or small as long as you try something previously out of your comfort zone. One completed victory will give rise to another.
Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. a neuropsychological, developmental and educational center in Manhattan and Queens.
Dr. Hafeez masterfully applies her years of experience connecting psychological implications to address some of today’s common issues such as body image, social media addiction, relationships, workplace stress, parenting and psychopathology (bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, etc…). In addition, Dr. Hafeez works with individuals who suffer from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, attention and memory problems, and abuse. Dr. Hafeez often shares her credible expertise to various news outlets in New York City and frequently appears on CNN and Dr. Oz.
Innovative project launched using advanced digital technology to transform management of complex care for patients with heart failure
Continuum is a large-scale project developed by a partnership of CRCHUM, Greybox Solutions Inc., MEDTEQ and Boehringer Ingelheim Canada
MONTREAL, Dec. 9, 2019 /CNW/ - Montreal's innovation professionals are coming together to provide an advanced technological solution to help care more effectively for patients with heart failure and multiple other conditions such as diabetes.
Called Continuum, the research collaboration is led by the team of Dr. François Tournoux, a cardiologist and researcher at the Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM). The project seeks to understand how advanced digital technology can help health professionals and patients suffering from multiple serious medical conditions to jointly manage their treatment plan at home to reduce hospital readmissions. Continuum will also create a vast database that could be used by artificial intelligence (AI) in the future to develop further care innovations.
The project has been developed by CRCHUM in partnership with Greybox Solutions Inc., a Montreal–based innovative business dedicated to providing digital solutions to improve people's lives; MEDTEQ, a pan-Canadian consortium funded by Quebec's Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation and designed to fast-track development in tandem with innovative health technology; and Boehringer Ingelheim Canada, a company committed to developing solutions beyond breakthrough medication to improve health care and change patient experience.
Heart failure and diabetes are leading causes of hospitalization in Quebec and across Canada, with many patients often needing to return to hospital after being discharged. An important reason for this is the difficulty of maintaining at home the complex medical care these patients need on an on-going basis to manage the many symptoms and potential complications of their conditions.
Continuum will examine how digital technology can support health care professionals in managing these complex cases with the patient at home, while keeping treatment aligned with Canadian guidelines for management of heart failure and diabetes. In addition to optimizing care for most patients, the project will seek greater participation by them in their own care and will provide the tools for them to do so.
The first pilot phase of Continuum has been launched at the CHUM and will then be extended to other hospitals across Quebec. The Continuum project has established a rich and diverse ecosystem for patients, clinicians, researchers and technological and pharmaceutical professionals to come together to develop, assess and set up innovative tools for making a difference in the lives of patients suffering from chronic diseases. Partners in this multi-sector project have one goal: improve people's health around the world with an innovative technological solution.
This project takes advantage of the extensive Montreal-based expertise available in the diverse fields involved. It will create a number of new full-time positions in this emerging field of medical technology at both Greybox and the CHUM. Other full-time positions will be created through initiatives related to the partnership.
Quotes "Continuum is an innovative program that may change how we provide care for patients suffering from serious chronic diseases. Our goal is to improve their health, avoid rehospitalization and reduce the use of health care resources. This fascinating emerging technology and our multi-faceted partnership can help us reach our goal." – Dr. François Tournoux, cardiologist and researcher at CRCHUM and Continuum program leader
"The integration of new technologies is increasingly playing a prominent role in medical care and health care systems. To better meet patients' and citizens' needs, it is vital we make use of the potential of technology. With the Continuum research project we are paving the way with our partners not only to improve complex health care but also improve the patient experience and strengthen the partner-patient role." – Dr. Fabrice Brunet, CEO, CHUM
"Continuum has applied the TAKECARE technology that Greybox has been developing since its inception in 2013. We are pleased to know that Montreal-based patients are benefitting from our technology. We are sure that the technology will not only provide better results for patients but also better results for our health care system." – Pierre Bérubé, CEO and Founder, Greybox Solutions Inc.
"High-quality care delivery for patients suffering from serious chronic diseases requires excellent teamwork on behalf of the patient and care team. MEDTEQ wishes to promote collaboration that makes a difference in our health care system. Continuum is an example of key partners collaborating to make a difference by using engaging new technology." – Diane Côté, President and CEO, MEDTEQ
"As a family-owned business, Boehringer Ingelheim is constantly fine-tuning transformative health care solutions that not only help patients and their families but also provide the health care system with more efficient care. Our partnership with Continuum plays a key role in our commitment to foster innovative change and improve the health of Canadians." – Andrea Sambati, President and CEO, Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd.
"This unique partnership brings together the driving forces of the biopharmaceutical, research and digital health sectors to develop innovative solutions to solve chronic health problems that affect many Quebecers. This project will significantly increase the quality of care provided to the population and demonstrate once again the expertise, innovative capacity and excellence of the Québec life sciences industry." – Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of Economics and Innovation
Heart failure and diabetes More than 600,000 Canadians and 160,000 Quebecers suffer from heart failure, a complex chronic illness characterized by the inability of the heart to pump enough blood throughout the body.1,2 Heart failure is a leading cause of hospitalization in Canada and Quebec.3 Even with a treatment plan, one in five patients (21 per cent) hospitalized for heart failure treatment are re-admitted within 30 days of discharge.4 In 60 per cent of cases, the main reason heart failure patients are rehospitalized is due to other conditions.5
CRCHUM The Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM) is one of North America's leading hospital research centres with a mission to improve adult health. The research continuum focuses on fields such as basic life sciences, clinical research and public health. Over 1,850 professionals work at CRCHUM, including 542 researchers and 719 students and research interns. For more information, visit chumontreal.qc.ca/crchum@CRCHUM.
Greybox Solutions Inc. Greybox Solutions Inc. is a growing Montreal–based business specializing in health technology, specifically innovative software development to improve patients' lives. Its mission is to find digital transformation solutions to meet the many health care system challenges and reduce payers' heavy load with respect to managing chronic illnesses.
As part of its digital distribution strategy, Greybox works actively with strategic partners to make integration of electronic medical files and other existing systems easier. Greybox distributes TAKECARE, its digital health platform, to redefine the relationship between patients and its health care team.
Greybox has committed itself to integrating with major international IT systems, making a name for itself through its distribution networks, and interfacing with private and public reimbursement processes. For more information, visit greybox.ca.
MEDTEQ MEDTEQ is a pan-Canadian consortium for industrial research and medical technology innovation. The MEDTEQ mission is to accelerate the development of innovation technology solutions to improve patients' health and quality of life. MEDTEQ supports the validation and integration of health care system solutions and their impact on the local and international scale, bringing together complementary skills from industrial, university, and health care provider partners.
MEDTEQ is financially supported by the provincial government, the federal government through its Centres of Excellence for Commercialization and Research (CECR), the private sector, and various partners to promote research and industrial relationships. For more information, visit medteq.ca.
Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. Improving the health of humans and animals is the goal of Boehringer Ingelheim, a research-driven pharmaceutical company. In doing so, the focus is on diseases for which no satisfactory treatment option exists to date. The company therefore concentrates on developing innovative therapies that can extend patients' lives. In animal health, Boehringer Ingelheim stands for advanced prevention.
Family-owned since it was established in 1885, Boehringer Ingelheim is one of the top 20 companies in the pharmaceutical industry. Some 50,000 employees create value through innovation daily for the three business areas of human pharmaceuticals, animal health and biopharmaceuticals. In 2018, Boehringer Ingelheim achieved net sales of around 17.5 billion euros. R&D expenditure of almost 3.2 billion euros, corresponded to 18.1 per cent of net sales.
As a family-owned company, Boehringer Ingelheim plans in generations and focuses on long-term success. The company therefore aims at organic growth from its own resources with simultaneous openness to partnerships and strategic alliances in research. In everything it does, Boehringer Ingelheim naturally adopts responsibility towards mankind and the environment.
The Canadian headquarters of Boehringer Ingelheim was established in 1972 in Montreal, Quebec, and is now located in Burlington, Ontario. Boehringer Ingelheim employs approximately 600 people across Canada.
5 Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux du Québec, MED-ÉCHO, Fichier des hospitalisations – 2009-10, and Canadian Institute for Health Information, Discharge Abstract Database, 2010-11.
SOURCE Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd.
5 Training Tips to Protect Against Strained Muscles
When it comes to injuries, muscle strain is among some of the most unpredictable, yet most common. Whether you’re exercising, working, or simply going about your daily routine, one wrong move could result in sudden pain.
Muscle strain is mostly prevalent in those who exercise and train a lot. Despite the randomness of muscles strain causes, there are plenty of things you can do to help prevent muscle strain.
Warm Up First
One of the most common causes of muscle strain is working out without warming up first. Warm ups don’t have to be anything tricky. In fact, they should be something simple. They can be anything, like a walk around the block or mild stretching.
Some people actually think that the more rigorous the exercise, the less likely they’ll develop muscle strain. This is not true as your muscles will become inflamed after an intense workout. Inflammation opens the door for many potential problems with not only your muscles, but your joints and ligaments as well.
Build Muscle Tone
Another common reason for muscle strain is muscles that aren’t quite strong enough for the task at hand. Similar to inflammation, weak muscles are also at risk of developing muscle strain such. One wrong move and it will be very painful to lift your arm for a few days.
A surefire way to prevent muscle strain is to build muscle. Keep in mind that muscle growth doesn’t happen overnight. It takes dedication, commitment, and effort to have effect. Remember to take things slow as you do so.
Improve Endurance
Everyone has a limit of how much they can endure, but with enough time and dedication, your endurance will gradually improve. Overexerting yourself is something you should always avoid as it can cause other problems aside from muscle strain. As with building muscle, it’s crucial you take things slow and pace yourself.
Consider Your Exercise Method
Not everyone can perform all types of exercise, so be sure to exercise within your limits. Going beyond you’re able to do can be risky, so never push yourself. If you have trouble deciding what type of exercise is right for you, consult your doctor.
Choose the Right Exercise Gear
Having the right gear can also help prevent muscle strain. While the gear you need will depend on your activity, using the correct recommend equipment will prevent more injuries that just muscle strain. To prevent muscle strain specifically, consider using compression gear over whichever muscles are at risk for strain. Runners many want compression pants, and those working their arms may want an upper arm sleeve.Muscle strain can become very uncomfortable and painful. However, by taking the right precautions, you’ll be able to train without having
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