VABYSMO® (faricimab injection) receives positive CADTH recommendation for the treatment of Neovascular (wet) Age-related Macular Degeneration (nAMD) in adults
The CADTH reimbursement recommendation is the latest step towards access to VABYSMO® (faricimab injection) for approximately the 2.5 million Canadians living with nAMD.1
Provincial jurisdictions will make the final decision on public reimbursement.
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Sept. 1, 2022 /CNW/ - Hoffmann-La Roche Limited (Roche Canada) is pleased to announce that on August 30, 2022, the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) Canadian Drug Expert Committee (CDEC) recommended VABYSMO® (faricimab injection) for public reimbursement. The recommendation is for the treatment of neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in adults.2
"Clinical trials have demonstrated promising vision gains and durability signal with VABYSMO for patients suffering from nAMD," said Dr. Varun Chaudhary, Chief of Ophthalmology & Professor of Surgery at Hamilton Regional Eye Institute, McMaster University. "This positive recommendation from CADTH is a critical step forward for Canadians in our fight against this blinding disease."
VABYSMO provides a unique dual mode of action by targeting both VEG-F and Ang-2 proteins, two key drivers of vascular instability that have been associated with vision-threatening retinal conditions.3,4,5, This is the first treatment in Canada for nAMD that blocks both pathways.6,7,8,9 The CADTH recommendation acknowledges that VABYSMO can be given at an interval of up to every 16 weeks, which can help lessen treatment burden by extending the time between injections and appointments.2,10
"Regular treatment is key to preserving sight and maintaining the independence of people living with wet AMD," said Doug Earle, president and CEO, Fighting Blindness Canada. "It may be challenging to keep up with frequent appointments, especially for those living in remote or isolated communities, or requiring mobility assistance. These issues have further been exacerbated by COVID-19. With CADTH's recommendation, Fighting Blindness Canada encourages all provinces to give access to VABYSMO to offer the opportunity to reduce the burden of frequent injections and to provide meaningful treatment options for people living with wet AMD and their loved ones."
Roche Canada is pleased that the clinical evidence and benefit of VABYSMO have been recognized by CADTH for use in patients with nAMD and looks forward to partnering with the provinces and jurisdictions to help Canadians gain access to this new treatment for this indication. In addition, VABYSMO continues to undergo CADTH review for its other approved indication, for Diabetic Macular Edema (DME).
About Neovascular (wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition that affects the macula, the part of the eye that provides sharp, central vision needed for activities like reading, driving, recognizing faces and seeing in colour,3 and is a leading cause of vision loss among Canadians, affecting approximately 2.5 million Canadians.4 Wet, or neovascular AMD (nAMD) is an advanced form of the disease that can cause rapid and irreversible vision loss if left untreated,5 and affects approximately 250,000 Canadians.4
Wet AMD is caused by growth of abnormal blood vessels, also referred to as choroidal neovascularization (CNV), into the macula. These vessels leak fluid and blood and cause scar tissue that destroys the central retina.11 If left untreated, this process results in a deterioration of sight over a period of months to years.12
About VABYSMO® (faricimab injection)
VABYSMO is a humanized bispecific immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) antibody that acts through inhibition of both Ang-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A). By inhibiting VEGF-A, faricimab suppresses endothelial cell proliferation, neovascularization and vascular permeability. By inhibiting Ang-2, faricimab is thought to increase vascular stability and desensitize blood vessels to the effects of VEGF-A. Ang-2 levels are increased in some patients with wet AMD and DME.6
About Roche
Roche is a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics focused on advancing science to improve people's lives. The combined strengths of pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, as well as growing capabilities in the area of data-driven medical insights, help Roche deliver truly personalized healthcare. Roche is the world's largest biotech company, with truly differentiated medicines in oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology, and diseases of the central nervous system. Roche is also the world leader in in vitro diagnostics and tissue-based cancer diagnostics, and a frontrunner in diabetes management.
Roche Canada was founded in 1931 and employs more than 1,800 people across the country through its Pharmaceuticals division in Mississauga, Ontario as well as its Diagnostics and Diabetes Care divisions in Laval, Quebec.
11 "Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration". American Macular Degeneration Foundation, Available at https://www.macular.org/wet-amd. Accessed on May 4, 2022
Hybrid sessions, COVID comfort zones and mental wellness themes resonate with fitness pros
Toronto, ON, Sep. 1, 2022-- For the first time in two years, the annual canfitpro Global Conference and Trade Show returned to a live format August 10-14, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Nearly 5,500 attendees, including 2,300 fitness professionals and 3,200 fitness enthusiasts took part in the five-day event at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre or joined online through live streamed and online sessions.
For 29 years, canfitpro has relied on revenue and reputation from this annual event. During the first two years of the pandemic, the conference was held online, ensuring canfitpro could still reach members and participants with professional development opportunities. The shift to online inspired a profitable event model that will remain part of canfitpro’s strategy to serve more members. Many unique and best practices have been adopted by other industry event operators.
Maureen ‘Mo’ Hagan, chief operating officer of canfitpro, said the 2022 live event far surpassed expectations, to support learning and social cohesion among fitness professionals and to inspire the fitness industry to come back stronger than ever.
“It was a leap of faith to commit to delivering a live conference and trade show, but we knew fitness professionals needed it this year because of the magic that happens with in-person connection. We also offered online sessions and were able to live stream many of the in-person presentations for a hybrid experience. With online and hybrid formats, delegates could be part of more sessions, and it meant we could reach more people with learning opportunities.”
In-person connection: Fitness professionals thrive on community and connection. For many people who attended the in-person conference and trade show, this was the first time they had seen their colleagues in more than three years. The energy level was high and extremely positive. Diva Richards, founder and president of Hard Work No Excuses LLC, presented for the first time at this year’s event and fell in love with the togetherness and community felt at this year’s show.
“This has been an absolutely mind-blowing experience. From the lectures, to the fitness seminars to the trade show floor, this is definitely on my list for ever and ever, amen!”
Hybrid and online sessions: The canfitpro Global Conference and Trade Show featured 90 online sessions and 22 live streamed hybrid sessions. Presenters adapted their content to be more interactive in person and to involve those joining online. By including an online option, canfitpro was able to reach 500 additional participants. Many of the participants who didn’t attend live this year say they were motivated to come in person next year.
Spotlighting mental wellness: Based on input from members, canfitpro event organizers recruited extra presenters to focus on mental health and wellness this year. This included the two keynote presenters, Olympian and mental health advocate Silken Laumann and sport psychologist and coach Dr. Ivan Joseph. Presenters focused on the importance of self-care, connecting with your purpose and nurturing confidence to power a comeback across the fitness industry.
Recognizing COVID comfort zones: Recognizing that every conference attendee might have a varying comfort level when it comes to COVID-19, canfitpro implemented a colour-coding system that allowed attendees to show their COVID comfort status on their pass. canfitpro also encouraged mask wearing and testing, and provided hand sanitizing stations throughout the venue.
“It’s so important to meet people where they are in their current comfort level with COVID-19. I was really impressed that the canfitpro team took the initiative to colour code name tags to show how each attendee wanted to be greeted at the conference. It was a small thing that went a long way to make social interactions more seamless and in-sync,” Richelle Lowry, Senior Director, People Experience, Learning & Communications, GoodLife Fitness.
Hagan and her team expect more people to return to the conference in-person next year as canfitpro marks its 30th anniversary. Event organizers plan to broadcast more hybrid sessions from the event.
“We intend to continue the hybrid model to reach fitness professionals wherever they are and to continue to bring the world’s top leaders, trainers and industry experts to our event. We’re also making the event content available online to be viewed and shared into thousands of communities worldwide. Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with world-class, practical content that will support them in their careers and drive the industry forward as we all come back together from the pandemic.”
For a closer look into the canfitpro 2022 Global Conference and Trade Show, check out this short event recap video.
Photography by Dawn Bowman
About canfitpro: canfitpro is the largest provider of education in the Canadian fitness industry. Founded in 1993, canfitpro delivers accessible, quality education, certifications, conferences, trade shows, and membership services. canfitpro's over 100,000 members include some of the world's finest fitness professionals, health club operators, industry suppliers, and fitness consumers. www.canfitpro.com
New TVOkids Original Sunny's Quest showcases the stories of Black children across Canada
Premiering September 13, 2022, this new fall series from Apartment 11 Productions and TVOkids creates fun and inspiring cultural adventures for Canadian families
Toronto, ON, Sept. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TVOkids, the internationally celebrated children's media and digital learning organization, and Apartment 11 Productions, a leader in producing series that encourage kids to think big, are thrilled to announce the premiere of TVOkids Original Sunny's Quest, a new series that features first-person stories told by Black children from across Canada.
Premiering on TVOkids.com, YouTube and smart TV services on September 13, 2022, the 20 x 7-minute episode series will introduce viewers to 20 children from diverse backgrounds who share their hobbies, talents, heritage and dreams for the future.
“Sunny’s Quest is an exciting opportunity to spotlight Black children doing what they love most at home and in their communities,” says Kirsten Hurd, executive producer of TVOkids. “The series was inspired by the incredible stories about Indigenous children featured in Raven’s Quest, another TVOkids collaboration with Apartment 11 Productions that connected viewers with smart and curious kids we don’t see represented on screen enough.”
“We are thrilled to make a TV series produced, written and directed by Black Canadians about Black Canadian kids’ lives,” adds Jonathan Finkelstein, president and executive producer at Apartment 11 Productions.
“It is an honour to create opportunities and work with a BIPOC production team on a Canadian television series that authentically portrays Black Canadian stories,” says Sabine Daniel, producer at Apartment 11 Productions. “In Sunny's Quest, Afro-descendant children celebrate their culture and heritage, inspiring relevant discussions on the Black experience in Canada.”
TVOkids Original Sunny’s Quest features trailblazing children from cross-cultural communities. There is a young boy advocating for racial equality, a gymnast hoping to make it to the Olympics and an aspiring astronaut looking to launch an ambitious dream career. The series highlights how these young changemakers are paving the way for many generations in activism, athletics and creative arts. Families everywhere will enjoy learning about these children while exploring daily life in diverse communities across Canada.
In each episode, a child is paired with a notable Black Canadian inspirational figure who shares insight on how to thrive in today's environment. The public figures appearing this season include Woody Belfort, Philesha Chandler, Luigi "City" Fidelia, Tracie Melchor, Sekou Kaba, Dr. Alexandra Bastiany, Nam Kiwanuka (of TVO’s The Thread), Naomy Grand-Pierre, Osvaldo Jeanty, Vicki Joseph, Latoya Webley, Dr. Louise Edwards, Brian Quaye, Richard Adu-Bobie, Wendie Wilson, Elladj Baldé, Prosper Laguerre, Bruny Surin, Sabine Daniel and Shasta Averyhardt.
Watch TVOkids Original Sunny’s Quest on TVOkids.com, YouTube and smart TV services starting Tuesday, September 13, 2022. The series is also casting for its second season. Families can apply nowthrough the application form.
Information on series production Jonathan Finkelstein, the founder of Apartment 11 Productions, is the executive producer for the series, and Mindy Laxer is the co-executive producer. The series producer is Sabine Daniel. Kirsten Hurd is the executive producer for TVOkids. TVOkids Original Sunny's Quest is produced by Apartment 11 Productions in association with TVOKids and is made with the financial participation of the Canada Media Fund, Shaw Rocket Fund, the Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit and the Quebec Film and Television Tax Credit.
About Apartment 11 Productions Founded in 2000 and led by its President, Jonathan Finkelstein, Apartment 11 Productions consistently delivers quality, story-driven rating successes to its global broadcast partners. The Montreal-based creative hub has produced more than 300 hours of scripted and non-scripted programming, mostly for children’s and youth audiences. Apartment 11 collaborates with almost every major Canadian broadcast partner, including CBC, YTV, Bell Media, TVO, Radio-Canada, and TFO and international partners, including BBC, Nickelodeon, Discovery, ABC (Australia), and Cirque du Soleil. There are 150 countries airing shows produced by Apartment 11 Productions. Apartment 11 Productions has won a Peabody Award, multiple Japan Prize awards (including the Grand Prix), Youth Media Alliance Awards, Gemini/Canadian Screen Awards, a Viewers’ Choice Kidscreen Award and has also been nominated for two International Emmy Awards. For more information, please visit Apartment11.tv
About TVO Media Education Group TVO Media Education Group inspires learning that changes lives and enriches communities. Founded in 1970, we are a globally recognized digital learning organization that engages Ontarians of all ages with inclusive experiences and diverse perspectives. Through video, audio, games, courses, newsletters and articles, we’re investing in the transformative potential of education for everyone. Funded primarily by the Province of Ontario, TVO is a registered charity supported by thousands of sponsors and donors. For more information, visit TVO.me, TVO.org and TVOkids.com.
TVO streaming channels: Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Android, LG, Roku and Samsung.
Will Custom Orthopedic Solutions Replace Traditional Implants? Surgeon Says No
Although the market for orthopedic implants is rapidly expanding, experts insist that for the foreseeable future, traditional, off-the-shelf solutions outweigh custom-made joints.
August 31, 2022. Custom joint implants are gaining traction since, as opposed to traditional implants, patient-specific or personalized orthopedic solutions can be designed and manufactured with extreme precision to match a patient’s unique anatomy. For instance, custom-made knee joints have been proven to result in better knee alignment than off-the-shelf solutions.
The orthopedic implants market, both traditional and customized, is valued at USD 45 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 68billion by 2029. According to Dr. Šarūnas Tarasevičius, an orthopedic surgeon at Nordorthopaedics Clinic, a leading international orthopedic center in Kaunas, Lithuania, there are a number of factors that influence the rapid growth of the implant and orthopedic surgery market.
“The global population is aging, and the prevalence of orthopedic diseases such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, disc diseases, hip and knee pain, and low bone density is on the rise. Traumas, accidents, and injuries are also becoming widespread due to an increased active lifestyle,” the surgeon said. “All this, coupled with the rising acceptance of implantable medical devices and the fast advances in 3D imaging, modeling, and digital manufacturing, is furthering the fast growth of the market.”
Time-consuming widespread application
Despite the advantages presented by patient-specific implants, designing, manufacturing, and delivery of customized solutions are time-consuming, and in some markets, such as North America, face reimbursement and surgeon acceptance hurdles.
Research published by the US National Library of Medicine indicatesthat custom implants promise a personalized surgical approach with the aim of improving patient satisfaction. That said, some studies have found no substantial clinical improvements in postoperative validated outcome scores, risks of reoperation, and implant alignment.
“To this day, we do not have any significant, research-based proof, that custom implants are providing better results in terms of function and longevity. Currently, producing custom implants takes more time and radiation tests, and there’s no reason to do this — in most cases, there’s no big advantage in using custom-made implants,” added Dr. Tarasevičius.
Potential risks during surgery
The orthopedic surgeon also maintained that there are some risks attributed to custom-made implants.
“If a patient-specific implant is not made precisely, it can even result in periprosthetic fractures. Moreover, the surgeon is given less freedom to make on-the-spot decisions during the surgery,” Dr. Tarasevičius said.
For this reason, orthopedic surgeons still go for traditional, off-the-shelf solutions.
“The market for orthopedic implants and the advanced technology involved is growing in leaps and bounds, yet for the foreseeable future, it seems that the traditional, ready-made solutions are here to stay and will account for a large portion of procedures worldwide,” Dr. Tarasevičius concluded.
-END -
ABOUT NORDORTHOPAEDICS
Nordorthopaedics is a private clinic in Kaunas, Lithuania, part of Nordclinic, offering high-quality services and focusing on foreign patients. It is equipped with modern diagnostic and surgical facilities. Medical professionals at the clinic speak fluent English and show personal attention to every patient. www.nordorthopaedics.com/en.
Remarkable exhibition of master carver Dempsey Bob to open at Glenbow at The Edison
Wolves: The Art of Dempsey Bob offers the first-ever retrospective of Bob’s career
CALGARY, Aug. 31, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The work of Tahltan-Tlingit master carver Dempsey Bob will soon be on display at Glenbow at The Edison’s new exhibition Wolves: The Art of Dempsey Bob, opening September 10 and running until November 20, 2022. This exhibition offers an encounter with one of the leading carvers of British Columbia’s Northwest Coast, and a comprehensive perspective on Bob’s effort to visualize the oral traditions of his Tahltan and Tlingit ancestors.
The exhibition features 65 works and is the first-ever retrospective of Bob’s career from the 1970s to the present. It surveys the artist’s development from his early days as a student of legendary female carver Freda Diesing through to his late career masterworks, which advance the traditions of carving in the 21st century. A knowledge keeper for his people, Bob shares his stories and insights, providing access to a view of humankind’s place in the natural world.
“Glenbow is proud to host the remarkable works of Dempsey Bob in this captivating exhibition,” said Nicholas R. Bell, President & CEO, Glenbow. “Bob is a true storyteller, and through his works we hope to educate and inspire visitors. As Glenbow looks to reimagine the museum experience, it’s important that we incorporate unique perspectives from across the country.”
Visitors to the exhibition will discover a selection of masks, sculpture and regalia, complemented by Bob’s work in bronze casting and vestment production. Bob’s life-long exposure to oral histories, songs and dances contributed to his understanding of art and its purpose within community. In his works, he reinterprets the traditional characters and iconography from the age-old stories of his people, at times transforming those traditional tales with European influences.
This exhibition is organized by the Audain Art Museum and the McMichael Canadian Art Collection.
“Dempsey Bob is without doubt one of the premier carvers of the Northwest Coast,” said the McMichael Canadian Art Collection’s Chief Curator Sarah Milroy. “It has been an honour to bring his remarkable work to the attention of a wider national audience. His ability to work with materials to create sinuous line and dramatic effect is unparalleled, as is his quest for experimentation.”
“This exhibition is a fitting tribute to Dempsey Bob’s incredible career, as he is among the most talented and innovative artists in Canada of the past 50 years,” said Dr. Curtis Collins, Director and Chief Curator, the Audain Art Museum.
Wolves: The Art of Dempsey Bob is at Glenbow at The Edison from September 10 to November 20, 2022. Free timed tickets are available on Glenbow’s website and must be reserved in advance. The exhibition will be open Wednesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information and to reserve tickets, please visit www.glenbow.org.
About Glenbow
Founded in 1966 as an independent, non-profit museum, archive and gallery, Glenbow cares for an extraordinary collection of more than 250,000 works of art and historical objects – from Canada and cultures around the world – on behalf of the people of Alberta. Glenbow Reimagined is a project to renovate the museum’s nearly 50-year-old building and provide a vibrant, thriving cultural resource in the heart of Calgary, committed to expanding the accessibility and impact of arts and culture. Glenbow’s main building is closed as it renovates to become the JR Shaw Centre for Arts and Culture. While renovations are underway, visitors can experience exhibitions at the mu
Former First Responder Details Path Toward Healing From PTSD and Overwhelming Life Events
Antioch, CA, August 29, 2022 — As a police officer for 25 years, Norm Wielsch witnessed his share of trauma and would later fall into a downward spiral following his own diagnosis of PTSD. He served 8 years of a 14-year sentence on corruption charges and emerged from federal prison determined to help others — particularly first responders — heal from trauma.
Wielsch’s new book, Christ Centered Healing of Trauma: Healing a Broken Heart (and companion small group study guide), teaches foundational principles and tools for resolving issues related to traumatic life events.
Readers will learn how trauma affects the heart, body and soul; how to manage emotions; how to identify the root cause of emotional pain; and how to begin the healing process.
Through a bible study portion, readers will learn God's plan for salvation and healing. Included are numerous sample prayers to guide readers through the healing process.
Wielsch’s Christ-Centered healing method was originally designed to minister to first responders and combat veterans but is also appropriate for counselors, pastors, chaplains and anyone whose lives are impacted by trauma.
“This book is not only for the victims of trauma, but for their husbands, wives, daughters, sons and parents who suffer right along with them,” Wielsch said. “They are wounded people as well. Hurt people, hurt people. Since our families are the closest to us, we tend to hurt them more than we intend.”
About the Author
Norm Wielsch was a law enforcement officer for over 25 years — 16 of those as an undercover narcotic agent. In 1998, he was diagnosed with an incurable neuro-muscular disease, and after more than 30 surgeries, he became addicted to opioids. Wielsch was diagnosed with PTSD, and then his daughter was diagnosed with a serious illness and given a poor prognosis. In a downward spiral, Wielsch made a series of bad decisions that landed him in federal prison.
While incarcerated, he obtained a master’s degree in Theology and Counseling, a Doctorate in Christian Counseling, and a Drug and Alcohol Counseling Degree. He currently works at a men's residential treatment facility as a registered alcohol and drug counselor and pastoral care provider. He is a working credentialed chaplain who hopes to one day launch a first responder ministry.
Wielsch also has a master’s degree in Law Enforcement Management and is an expert in law enforcement tactics, criminal investigations, pursuit driving, high risk search warrant service, PTSD and the police culture.
SAFE Method Promotes Peace, Empowerment After Trauma
Princeton, NJ, August 29, 2022 — Surviving sexual assault, attempted suicide and an arranged marriage is one thing. Processing all of that pain and living a full life proved to be something entirely different for speaker and author Poonam Bhuchar.
“In the shadows of emotional pain, survival can take priority over healing,” Bhuchar said. “Lasting reverberations of traumatic experiences can cripple decision-making skills, creep into relationships and leave scars on the people you love.”
Eventually, Bhuchar’s emotional trauma also took a physical toll. She suffered two strokes and temporary paralysis before beginning her long journey toward authentic healing.
Today, she shares her powerful story through speaking engagements and her book, SAFE From the Pain: Out of the Darkness Into a Life That’s Free, Happy, and Good.
Part memoir, part self-help revelation, SAFE From the Pain pairs Bhuchar’s inspiring story with the SAFE Method, which aims to help readers process emotional pain in healthy, productive ways so they can lead more fulfilling personal and professional lives.
In SAFE From the Pain, readers will learn:
- The four-step SAFE Method for working through emotions and regaining control.
- The impact that stress from emotional pain has on every aspect of life — including the workplace.
- How to overcome a victim mindset and accept responsibility — because ownership leads to action.
- Three types of forgiveness for freedom from society’s expectations, cultural beliefs and self-judgment.
- Why embracing one’s journey is essential to happiness, a bigger life purpose and alignment with one’s true self.
“Peace and empowerment after trauma are possible when you embrace your pain as part of your story,” Bhuchar said. “You can’t move forward if you live in the past.”
About the Author
Poonam Bhuchar runs a boutique law firm, is a life coach, author and a speaker on overcoming trauma and emotional pain. Born and raised in London, she immigrated to the United States at 21 and experienced a multitude of painful challenges such as sexual assault, abuse, and the aftermath and cultural humiliation of divorce. Throughout her journey, she developed the SAFE Method to help others acknowledge, discuss, and grow from their emotional pain without stigma or judgement. Her book, SAFE From the Pain: Out of the Darkness Into a Life That’s Free, Happy, and Good, has won multiple awards in the self-help category, including a five-star review from Literary Titan.
For more information, please visit www.emotionallysafe.com, or connect with the author on Facebook (emotionally safe) and Instagram (emotionally_safe).
SAFE From the Pain: Out of the Darkness Into a Life That’s Free, Happy, and Good Publisher: RI Publishing
WASHINGTON D.C. — Earlier this year, millions of Americans who depend on government sponsored insurance plans purchased on the federal or state marketplace realized they were once again subject to the whim of Washington politicians. As they faced bankruptcy-inducing premium hikes as high as 53%, they found themselves pawns in the cruel game the U.S. Congress so often plays with life-and-death issues like health care. The federal insurance subsidies expanded to millions of Americans during the pandemic in the American Rescue Plan were slated to expire this fall. After weeks of hanging on every update about the moods and inclinations of key Senators, particularly Senator Joe Manchin, D-WV, the 13 million Americans in the Obamacare exchanges learned their premiums will not increase $1,000-$2,000 a monthafter all.
“If you missed it before, it should be clear now that Washington politicians are willing to terrorize American families with the specter of crushing health care costs right up to the last minute,” said Katy Talento, executive director of the Alliance of Health Care Sharing Ministries (The Alliance, ahcsm.org). “They are playing with people’s lives. For people dependent on the federal and state marketplace subsidies, life and death decisions in health care are dependent on a bunch of political sleights of hand and brinksmanship in Washington that recur every few years. Our health care security should not be dictated by the whims of Congress.”
Although Manchin was the focus of attention most recently, many Republicans have voted with the Democrats to create these dependencies. For the millions of Americans, the Senate’s whipsawing will be on rinse and repeat from now on, as the federal subsidy expiration approaches every few years. Even with the extended subsidies, families forced onto the federal and state exchanges must still cope with many burdens, including high deductibles — in some cases $10,000 annually.
“Few families have the resources to pay the sky-high premiums and deductibles of marketplace insurance plans the next time Congress is battling over subsidy extension. It’s chilling to put your life of your children in the hands of politicians,” Talento commented. “There are alternatives people should consider.”
The need for options is clear; 100 million people are already suffering from medical debt and bankruptcy, inflation is killing family budgets, and Congress never solves the root cause of price inflation in health care that is driving the need for endless subsidy expansion. More than a million Americans, including doctors, have discovered a way to keep health care independent of a fickle Congress.
“More and more Christian doctors and independent health care facilities are leaving behind the broken health care system and the insurance system,” said Talento. “For instance, if you get an MRI at a hospital-owned radiology department, that MRI will likely cost 3-5 times more than an MRI at a free-standing imaging center would cost. Independent health care providers, teaming up with independent Health Care Sharing Ministries and their members, are an unstoppable and disruptive challenge to the broken health care status quo.”
Talento continued: “Health Care Sharing Ministry members find it’s much better to do health care in a community of like-minded individuals. Members send their monthly contributions to other members and when they have a need, pray for one another and send notes of encouragement. They have the freedom to choose the health care provider that works best for them, and the freedom to join or leave the community anytime.
“Facing a health care crisis is such an important and vulnerable time. You don’t want to turn over your life or your loved ones to politicians and a cold insurance bureaucracy and hope they do right by you.”
Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Alliance of Health Care Sharing Ministries is a 501(c)(6) trade organization representing the common interests of Health Care Sharing Ministry organizations which are facilitating the sharing of health care needs (financial, emotional, and spiritual) by individuals and families, and their participants. The Alliance engages with federal and state regulators, members of the media, and the Christian community to provide accurate and timely information on medical cost sharing.
To learn more about the Alliance of Health Care Sharing Ministries, visit www.ahcsm.org or follow the ministry on Facebook or Twitter.
FASTFRATE GROUP AND AUDREY'S PLACE COMMITS TO DONATING $500,000 TO SOUTHLAKE FOUNDATION
WOODBRIDGE, ON, Aug. 30, 2022 /CNW/ - The Fastfrate Group, a Canadian leader in providing transportation and logistics services, is honored to announce they will be making a $500,000 donation over five years to Audrey's Place Foundation. In turn, Audrey's Place Foundation will invest this donation to Southlake Regional Health Centre in support of its new $20M Cancer Campaign, HERE is Where Cancer Meets its Match to create the cancer care our communities deserve. This is the second $500,000 donation the Fastfrate Group has made toward Audrey's Place Foundation: the first was made in October 2021 and was contributed to University Health Network (UHN).
"Cancer truly affects us all" says Manny Calandrino, CEO of the Fastfrate Group. "It devastates individuals and families. It strains the healthcare system. It impacts the communities where we live, work and play. Giving back is a core mantra at Fastfrate and we want to support Audrey's Place and all the philanthropic work they do, and we are humbled and honored to play our part."
When contributed to Southlake's Stronach Regional Cancer Centre, the donation will be used help deliver the best care and best chance for patients to survive their cancer. The funds will help by expanding their capacity to deliver exceptional care and upgrading to state-of-the-art technology, including bringing the first PET-CT to the Region, expanding Radiation Therapy and Systemic Therapy Programs, expanding outpatient care for acute leukemia patients, and replacing an end-of-life MRI.
"I was recently able to welcome the Fastfrate Group to our Stronach Regional Cancer Centre for a tour," says Dr Peter Anglin, Oncologist and Physician Lead, Southlake's Regional Cancer Program. "Being able to show them firsthand the difference their generous gift will make and thank them in person for leading by example with this corporate gift was truly a pleasure. Together, with this type of investment from our community partners, we can make a significant impact on patient care, close to home."
"Cancer is a fight" says Audrey Tepper, Founder of Audrey's Place Foundation. "Frontline staff fight cancer with science and innovation and compassion, while those affected by cancer fight it with bravery and determination. We want to help and support the life-changing work Southlake does to deliver the best patient care to the communities it serves, so that those fighting cancer don't have to take on the added burden of commuting downtown for treatment."
About the Fastfrate Group
Headquartered in Woodbridge, Ontario, The Fastfrate Group has been providing industry-leading transportation services for more than 50 years. From what started out as an LTL over the road and intermodal carrier, Fastfrate has grown into a diverse group comprised of multiple companies operating across Canada. This evolution now offers customers a full suite of asset-based transportation including over-the-road, crossborder and intermodal LTL and TL, drayage and transload, warehousing, distribution, logistics services and final mile. Please visit fastfrate.com for more information.
About Audrey's Place
Audrey's Place Foundation is a charitable organization founded in 2010 by the Tepper family of Toronto. The mission of Audrey's Place is to assist in funding post-secondary and graduate education for individuals entering the nursing field. They also focus on supporting Toronto's University Health Network and the Southlake Foundation.
About Southlake Regional Health Centre
Southlake is building healthy communities through outstanding care, innovative partnerships, and amazing people. We deliver a wide range of healthcare services to the communities of northern York Region and southern Simcoe County. Our advanced regional programs include Cancer Care and Cardiac Care and serve a broader population across the northern GTA and into Simcoe-Muskoka.
Our team of 3500 staff, 580 physicians, 780 volunteers, 950 students and 90 Patient and Family Advisors are committed to creating an environment where the best experiences happen. As a recognition of our commitment to quality and patient safety, we have received the highest distinction of Exemplary Standing from Accreditation Canada.
With an annual operating budget of over $450 million, we care for a rapidly growing and aging population and have developed an exciting plan for new facilities to serve our communities into the future. A member of the Southlake Community Ontario Health Team, we are working with our partners to deliver integrated care to northern York Region and southern Simcoe County.
About Southlake Regional Health Centre Foundation
Since the inception of Southlake Foundation in 1980, more than $213 million dollars has been raised in support of Southlake Regional Health Centre. Working with members of the community, hundreds of volunteers, the Southlake Family and our incredible donors, Southlake Foundation will continue to support life-saving medical equipment, infrastructure upgrades and expansions, patient programs and staff education, all for the goal of providing leading edge care for patients and families, close to home. Southlake is supported by the communities we serve. To donate, please visit www.southlake.ca/donate
SOURCE Fastfrate Group
Canadian Military Veterans Complete Hike to Bring Awareness to Chronic Pain
HAMILTON, Ontario, Aug. 30, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Seven military Veterans living with chronic pain from across Canada completed the first-ever Military Veterans Alpine Challenge (Alpine Challenge) – a seven-kilometre hike accessed by helicopter that took place in Whistler, British Columbia on Saturday, August 27. The event was organized by the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans (CPCoE) to bring awareness to Veteran chronic pain and help participating Veterans set goals while managing their chronic pain.
Chronic pain is a condition affecting roughly 20 per cent of Canadians. It involves a complex set of physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and environmental factors. Recent Government of Canada research found that Veterans are twice as likely to suffer from chronic pain compared to others in the Canadian population. Furthermore, 50 per cent of female Veterans suffer from chronic pain and 63 per cent of Veterans diagnosed with chronic pain have associated mental health conditions.
“Chronic pain can be highly debilitating, particularly for Veterans whose pain is often compounded by a myriad of factors like mental and emotional health after service. For some Veterans, a better understanding of how chronic pain impacts their life will allow them to make changes to improve their well-being and to use their treatment benefits to better manage their pain. For other Veterans, a higher level of care is required,” comments Tom Hoppe, Military Veteran and Chair of the Centre of Excellence Advisory Council of Veterans. “Our work at the CPCoE, is about coming alongside Veterans living with chronic pain and offering resources and education, but also community and encouragement to keep persevering. It was this mission that guided us in developing and planning the Alpine Challenge.”
The event focuses on the ideas of hope, comradeship, achievement, and challenge. These themes resonate with Veterans and help create parallels between life during and after service, ultimately providing a strategy for living life with a renewed sense of purpose. One of the main reasons Veterans face chronic pain at higher rates is the identity and culture that comes with being a Veteran. The idea of “mission first, self last” greatly impacts their mindset and outlook on life after leaving the military. The Alpine Challenge specifically aims to help Veterans cultivate the characteristics and strengths they developed from the military and implement strategies for applying then to new challenges and experiences.
“The Alpine Challenge provided individual participants with a goal to work for and a reason to challenge themselves,” explains Paul Roos, Veteran and Director of Operations for the CPCoE. “The highlight, along with my experience, was the renewed sense of camaraderie among everyone who participated.”
Additional participants who work in chronic pain management-related fields joined the hike to learn about the experiences of the Veterans and provide their knowledge on chronic pain, safe movement, nutrition, and other topics to help improve their quality of life.
The CPCoE has plans to make the Alpine Challenge an annual event and plans to expand the resources and programs that future participants will have access to, including education and preparation sessions leading up to the hike. The Alpine Challenge is just one aspect of the work that the CPCoE does to support Veterans across Canada, with other aspects including a research mandate to improve the understanding of Veteran-specific chronic pain and mobilizing findings and recommendations to help Veterans and their families manage their pain and reconnect with life.
About the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans
The Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans partners with Veterans and their families across Canada to develop research that genuinely addresses their unique needs and challenges, with the goal of building evidence-based standards and best practices that will improve the lives of Veterans and their families suffering from chronic pain.
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