“Few laying on a gurney heading to surgery want “lowest bidder government operatives”
By Peter Rosenberger
One cannot help but admire those who persevere through medical school. For most, the journey begins as teenagers and weighs heavily on young minds as they slog through a difficult educational journey. Through uncounted classrooms and labs to often working multiple jobs eking out a living, these individuals push themselves in truly amazing ways. Enduring grueling hours in residency and fellowships, they press on towards the fixed goal of putting out their shingle in private practice, landing a job at a top university, working for research companies, or other related fields.
This herculean effort stems from core values of wanting to heal, make a better life for themselves, and achieve deep-seated goals. Why else put themselves through such an arduous ordeal?
Add to that, nurses, nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, lab technicians, phlebotomists, radiology technicians, and others in the virtual army of medical support. They all sacrifice and work extremely hard to learn their individual skill sets in the healing arts.
Yet, political figures lead the charge in now saying the work these individuals perform is a right, akin to a birthright or a constitutional right. According to many politicians, fellow citizens (and even non-citizens) are entitled to the efforts of others. The acquired knowledge of achievers is now at the disposal of political figures.
If healthcare is a right, then the dedication, education, and sweat equity must be compensated fairly. Yet, politicians seem to now not only determine society is entitled to the products and services of others, but those same politicians grant themselves permission to determine the rate of compensation.
If politicians alone decide what is fair compensation, then what is the impetus for success? Reward is what inspires dedication and effort. Mediocrity doesn’t stand on a podium with a medal. When a healthcare crisis hits, who looks for a mediocre healthcare provider?
Dictating remuneration for the skills of others invalidates the free market for those skills. This leads to the inevitable consequence of stunting the excellence participants require for those skills. When not paid commensurately for effort and ability, even the lowest on the wage spectrum concludes that “phoning” it in makes it easier.
In a free market, excellence is rewarded. In authoritarian constructs, excellence grows scarce. Few laying on a gurney heading to surgery want “lowest bidder government operatives.”
Declaring healthcare a “right” allows politicians to grasp control of someone else’s hard work and abilities, and mete it out at their discretion. In classrooms across America, teenagers seeking to make a name for themselves as surgeons, for example, routinely hear that the field of their aspiration is a right to their fellow citizens. Even with politicians declaring free funding for education, the path remains brutal. Learning the end of that path means working under an externally determined threshold of success is hardly an inspiration to academic distinction—or a motivator to even enter the field.
Competing for no recognition, reward, or the ability to self-negotiate a return on investment leads to empty stadiums. Likewise, it will lead to empty surgical suites.
The logic of “healthcare is a right” seems to naturally extend to politicians allotting farmers’ produce and ranchers’ beef. After all, everyone must eat.
While legislators push bills allowing others the “right to die,” it seems the “right” to crematorium or funeral services can’t be far behind. After all, the mortality rate still hovers at one-hundred percent. Yet other than special individuals like Elvis, the government prohibits “backyard burials.” Instead, families must seek the expensive help of licensed and trained funeral workers. Those service providers also sacrificed and worked hard to learn their skills.
Plumbing, electrical repair, fresh water—if allowed, services and products that politicians might deem as rights can comprise a lengthy list. When elected officials placate the desires of constituents at the expense of others’ hard work, training, and skills, a society careens from freedom to totalitarianism.
Access to medical services for the indigent is a noble thing. Medicaid, while not perfect, serves a great need. However flawed and rife with fraud, Medicare remains embedded in our society. As a society, we can certainly vote and work to improve Medicare and to help the truly needy through a more effective Medicaid program. Furthermore, many ways remain available to assist those with the important skills needed to better treat the sick and injured.
Classifying hard-earned skill sets, products, and services —their property—as a right to be dispensed by politicians to their constituents is far different than working together to solve a problem or address a need. Determining society is entitled to the labor and expertise of some shows great disrespect to their extraordinary achievement.
The nomenclature of “right” is far better suited to the constitution.
Peter Rosenberger is the host of HOPE FOR THE CAREGIVER, a syndicated radio program heard weekly on 200 stations. For more than thirty years, he’s cared for his wife, Gracie, who lives with severe disabilities. @hope4caregiver www.hopeforthecaregiver.com
MSH AMERICAS announces the launch of LivExpat - A flexible, affordable international health insurance plan for 1 – 150 lives.
TORONTO, March 4, 2019 /CNW/ - LivExpat is the beginning of a new generation of flexible, cost efficient and innovative international health insurance plans. Designed to meet the needs of the ever-changing global traveler and SME's.
LivExpat fully insured plans give you choice; Emergency medical only coverage or Comprehensive medical coverage with optional Disability, Life and AD&D. These plans provide insurance protection with several duration options and mix and match benefits to best suit you and or your employees.
Medical including hospitalization, routine and vision care, and prescription drugs, and optional dental care;
Evacuation including transportation, hospitalization and repatriation;
Employee Assistance Program
Life & Disability, including Life, Long-Term Disability, Temporary & Permanent Total Disability, and Accidental Death & Dismemberment benefits.
LiveExpat includes access to MSH's exclusive Provider Network of more than a million healthcare professionals around the world and MSH's "in – house" 24/7 assistance and case management.
LivExpat premiums include three geographical zones; high, medium and low risk locations, so that you pay for what you need, ensuring affordability for all members.
Pamela Kwiatkowski, Senior Vice President, Distribution & Client Experience at MSH Americas, says: "SMEs and individuals are changing and their travel and expatriate lifestyles are becoming more diverse and unique in their needs and expectations. It is our mission to make sure they are supported with programs that are flexible and cost appropriate. LivExpat will continue to evolve and deliver a variety of coverage and pricing options for the globally mobile traveler. Individuals and businesses are looking for cost-efficiency without sacrificing essential benefits. At MSH we listened and responded to our partners and will continue to work with them to deliver relevant plans and exceptional service."
LivExpat is further enhanced with our NEW MSH Navigator, a duty of care mobile application including geo tracking, security warnings, travel and city guides, 2-way communication and single touch access to emergency assistance and provider networks.
SOURCE MSH International
NHL Alumni Association teams up with Canopy Growth to research concussions and cannabinoids
New study led by NEEKA Health Canada will test if CBD-based therapies can reduce the severity of post-concussion brain disorders in former NHL players
TORONTO and SMITHS FALLS, ON, March 2, 2019 /CNW/ - NHL Alumni Association (NHLAA), NEEKA Health Canada and Canopy Growth Corporation ("Canopy Growth" or the "Company") (TSX: WEED) (NYSE: CGC) are pleased to announce a transformative clinical research partnership that will investigate the efficacy of cannabinoids as an integral part of a novel treatment for post-concussion neurological diseases in former NHL players.
A substantial number of these high performing, former professional athletes have developed impairments as a result of past concussions, ranging from depression, post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD) and progressive dementia from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). In some cases, this leads to debilitating limitations in their ability to cope with their environment, a term NEEKA Health Canada has defined as functional disintegration. This study will undertake the rigorous science needed to establish the medicinal value of cannabis when combined with other proven treatments amongst this highly-afflicted group of elite athletes and potentially improve their ability to interact with family, friends and their communities.
Researchers estimate that between 1.6 and 3.8 million athletes suffer from a sports-related concussion each year*. Ten to 15 percent of these athletes will go on to develop chronic post-concussion symptoms that can affect their ability to function. The results of this original study may also lead to new cannabinoid-based therapies that help athletes in other professional sports, along with adults who suffer from the aftermath of brain injuries from accidents and other activities.
"NHL alumni gave everything they had during their careers, but the physical consequences after they hang up their skates can be devastating for both players and their loved ones for the rest of their lives," said Glenn Healy, Executive Director of the NHLAA. "This study offers alumni the promise of help and hope, and we are excited to participate in what could become a true game-changer in allowing these professional athletes to finish strong."
Approximately 100 former players will be enrolled in this randomized double-blind study. The research will be led by NEEKA Health Canada's Dr. Amin Kassam, a world-renowned neurosurgeon who completed his undergraduate training at the University of Toronto and has led four neurosurgery programs over two decades. Joining Dr. Kassam is Dr. Richard Rovin, a neurosurgeon who completed post-graduate training through the Global Clinical Scholars Research Training Program at Harvard University Medical School. Their combined expertise in neuroscience, molecular cell signaling, brain mapping, and clinical trial design may lead to novel cannabis therapies that have the potential to improve the lives of patients suffering from post-concussion healthcare issues.
"We have seen the debilitating effects of chronic repeated head injuries on the lives of patients and their families," said Dr. Amin Kassam, Founder and CEO of NEEKA Health Canada. "Our team is excited to partner with Canopy Growth, a global leader in cannabis science and the NHL Alumni Association, a committed organization to its players, to demonstrate the immense and unexplored opportunity in cannabis-based remedies, particularly when synergized by novel treatment paradigms such as digital mental health and behavioral therapy."
"This complex and multidimensional study will give us an unprecedented understanding of the interaction between cannabidiol (CBD) and the brains and behaviours of former NHL players living with post-concussion symptoms," said Dr. Mark Ware, Chief Medical Officer, Canopy Growth. "We thank the members of the NHLAA whose willingness to join this unique research partnership speaks to the need for alternative medical treatments to treat the long-term and often devastating effects of concussions."
The study is expected to begin in summer 2019 and will take one year to complete. The results of this unprecedented trial could also catalyze new research initiatives further investigating the potential of CBD as a treatment to help people recover from their brain injuries.
About NHLAA The NHL Alumni Association (NHLAA), established in 1999, is a charitable organization in Canada and the US that serves as a passionate advocate devoted to bettering the lives of its members (all former NHL Players). The NHLAA exemplifies this commitment to its members in many different ways including financial assistance, commercializing players' rights, emotional support, physical care, post playing career transition and family aid all in furtherance of its efforts to 'Honour the Past'. Since its inception, the NHLAA has acted as a liaison with its 29 local chapters and has become the largest membership association for retired professional hockey players.
About Canopy Growth Corporation Canopy Growth is a world-leading diversified cannabis and hemp company, offering distinct brands and curated cannabis varieties in dried, oil and Softgel capsule forms. Canopy Growth offers medically approved vaporizers through the Company's subsidiary, Storz & Bickel GMbH & Co. KG. From product and process innovation to market execution, Canopy Growth is driven by a passion for leadership and a commitment to building a world-class cannabis company one product, site and country at a time. The Company has operations in over a dozen countries across five continents.
The Company is proudly dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners, conducting robust clinical research, and furthering the public's understanding of cannabis, and through its wholly owned subsidiary, Canopy Health Innovations ("Canopy Health"), has devoted millions of dollars toward cutting edge, commercializable research and IP development. Canopy Growth works with the Beckley Foundation and has launched Beckley Canopy Therapeutics to research and develop clinically validated cannabis-based medicines, with a strong focus on intellectual property protection. Canopy Growth acquired assets of leading hemp research company, ebbu, Inc. ("ebbu"). Intellectual Property ("IP") and R&D advancements achieved by ebbu's team apply directly to Canopy Growth's hemp and THC-rich cannabis genetic breeding program and its cannabis-infused beverage capabilities. Through partly owned subsidiary Canopy Rivers Corporation, the Company is providing resources and investment to new market entrants and building a portfolio of stable investments in the sector.
From our historic public listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange to our continued international expansion, pride in advancing shareholder value through leadership is engrained in all we do at Canopy Growth. Canopy Growth has established partnerships with leading sector names including cannabis icon Snoop Dogg, breeding legends DNA Genetics and Green House seeds, Battelle, the world's largest nonprofit research and development organization, and Fortune 500 alcohol leader Constellation Brands, to name but a few. Canopy Growth operates ten licensed cannabis production sites with over 4.3 million square feet of production capacity, including over 500,000 square feet of GMP certified production space. The Company operates Tweed retail stores in Newfoundland and Manitoba and has entered into supply agreements with every Canadian province and territory. For more information visit www.canopygrowth.com
About NEEKA NEEKA Enterprises founded by neurosurgeon Dr. Amin Kassam, is a health care entity that provides broad ranging services, including, econometric modeling and strategic health care transformation. The Canadian clinical subsidiary of NEEKA Enterprises, NEEKA Health Canada, will co-ordinate the unprecedented National Hockey League Alumni Association trial from its headquarters in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada. Built on the scientific underpinning of Dr. Amin Kassam and Dr. Richard Rovin, NEEKA Health Canada will bring its competencies in the fields of economic modeling, machine learning, bioinformatics and patient empowerment to transform the lives of those suffering from post-concussion healthcare issues. www.neekahealth.ca www.neekaenterprises.com
Notice Regarding Forward Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Canopy Growth or its subsidiaries to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release. Examples of such statements include statements with respect to "transformative clinical research partnership", and "results of this original study may also lead to new cannabinoid-based therapies". Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including research outcomes, timeline for publishing results, and such risks contained in the Company's annual information form dated June 27, 2018 and filed with Canadian securities regulators available on the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information or forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking information or forward-looking information to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities laws.
SOURCE Canopy Growth Corporation
Media advisory - NHL Alumni Association, NEEKA Healthcare Canada and Canopy Growth Team Up for a new Research Initiative
TORONTO and SMITHS FALLS, ON, March 2, 2019 /CNW/ - We would like to invite you to join us as NEEKA Healthcare Canada and Canopy Growth (TSX: WEED) (NYSE: CGC) unveil a transformative clinical research initiative in partnership with the NHL Alumni Association, a passionate advocate for improving the health and quality of life for all former NHL players.
There will be a press conference featuring Glenn Healy, Executive Director with the NHLAA and former NHL player, Dr. Amin Kassam from NEEKA Healthcare Canada, and from Canopy Growth, Dr. Mark Ware, Chief Medical Officer and Hilary Black, Chief Advocacy Officer. Additional former NHL players will also be in attendance.
Toronto, Ontario
Date: March 2, 2019
Time: Event begins at 2:45 p.m. EST. We recommend media arrive before 2:45 p.m. for set up.
Location: Artscape Sandbox, 301 Adelaide St. West, Toronto, ON
About Canopy Growth Corporation Canopy Growth is a world-leading diversified cannabis and hemp company, offering distinct brands and curated cannabis varieties in dried, oil and Softgel capsule forms. Canopy Growth offers medically approved vaporizers through the Company's subsidiary, Storz & Bickel GMbH & Co. KG. From product and process innovation to market execution, Canopy Growth is driven by a passion for leadership and a commitment to building a world-class cannabis company one product, site and country at a time. The Company has operations in over a dozen countries across five continents.
The Company is proudly dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners, conducting robust clinical research, and furthering the public's understanding of cannabis, and through its wholly owned subsidiary, Canopy Health Innovations ("Canopy Health"), has devoted millions of dollars toward cutting edge, commercializable research and IP development. Canopy Growth works with the Beckley Foundation and has launched Beckley Canopy Therapeutics to research and develop clinically validated cannabis-based medicines, with a strong focus on intellectual property protection. Canopy Growth acquired assets of leading hemp research company, ebbu, Inc. ("ebbu"). Intellectual Property ("IP") and R&D advancements achieved by ebbu's team apply directly to Canopy Growth's hemp and THC-rich cannabis genetic breeding program and its cannabis-infused beverage capabilities. Through partly owned subsidiary Canopy Rivers Corporation, the Company is providing resources and investment to new market entrants and building a portfolio of stable investments in the sector.
From our historic public listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange to our continued international expansion, pride in advancing shareholder value through leadership is engrained in all we do at Canopy Growth. Canopy Growth has established partnerships with leading sector names including cannabis icon Snoop Dogg, breeding legends DNA Genetics and Green House seeds, Battelle, the world's largest nonprofit research and development organization, and Fortune 500 alcohol leader Constellation Brands, to name but a few. Canopy Growth operates ten licensed cannabis production sites with over 4.3 million square feet of production capacity, including over 500,000 square feet of GMP certified production space. The Company operates Tweed retail stores in Newfoundland and Manitoba and has entered into supply agreements with every Canadian province and territory. For more information visit www.canopygrowth.com
Notice Regarding Forward Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Canopy Growth or its subsidiaries to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release. Examples of such statements include "transformative clinical research initiative". Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including research results, and such risks contained in the Company's annual information form dated June 27, 2018 and filed with Canadian securities regulators available on the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information or forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking information or forward-looking information to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities laws.
Galderma: New Data Reveals Benefits of Combining Oral and Topical Treatment in Patients With Severe Papulopustular Rosacea
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, March 1, 2019 /CNW/ - First randomized clinical trial comparing the efficacy andsafety of combined doxycycline 40 mg modified release (DMR) and ivermectin 1% cream (IVM), versus ivermectin 1% cream plus placebo in adults with severe papulopustular rosacea, reveals more than double the number of patients reach 'clear' (100% lesion clearance) at 12 weeks
Today, Galderma shares the results of its ANSWER study, which highlights a superior reduction of inflammatory lesions with combination doxycycline 40 mg modified release capsules (DMR) and ivermectin 1% cream (IVM), compared to IVM plus placebo, in adults with severe papulopustular rosacea (IGA 4*) at 12 weeks.
Clinicians often use a combination of topical and oral therapies for the treatment of rosacea. A previous study confirmed the increased benefits of combination therapy.[1] More recently, once daily IVM has been shown to be more effective than twice daily metronidazole 0.75%.[2] The ANSWER study is the first to evaluate the combination of IVM and DMR, which is the only approved oral treatment for inflammatory rosacea lesions.[3]
According to the results, the combination treatment was associated with 2.5 times more patients achieving 100% lesion clearance already at 12 weeks compared with IVM plus placebo (17.8% vs. 7.2%). DMR and IVM also worked significantly faster than IVM plus placebo, with significant differences seen as early as week 4. The safety profile of both treatment arms was generally well tolerated with no significant differences between the arms. The data is revealed as a poster at the 2019 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., USA.[4]
"ANSWER is a significant step forward for people suffering with severe rosacea, and for clinicians in this field. The data shows combination therapy with IVM + DMR was a safe and more efficacious option with a faster onset of action compared to IVM alone" says Dr James Del Rosso, DO of JDR Dermatology Research/Thomas Dermatology, Las Vegas, Nevada, who is presenting the data at AAD.
"Reaching clear is a tremendous achievement for those living with this chronic, visible disease.Through combination (DMR + IVM) treatment more people willhave the opportunity to reach clear and be relieved of the physical, emotional and psychological burden of this disease."
Results showed a consistent outcome in doubling the number of patients achieving 'clear' (IGA 0) which is defined as 100% clearance in inflammatory lesions and erythema (redness) at 12 weeks using combination therapy (11.9% vs 5.1%) in this severe population.
In addition, three quarters of patients in both treatment groups saw a reduction in burning and stinging sensations by week 12, with 73.3% and 75.4% of patients reporting complete elimination of these symptoms on combination therapy and monotherapy, respectively. Both treatment arms also experienced a substantial increase in the proportion of patients without flushing episodes (-47.2% IVM+DMR vs -41.9% IVM+PBO) and a significant improvement in DLQI** (quality of life).
"The ANSWER results demonstrate the optimized clinical outcome of associating these two treatmentsin patients with severerosacea,both known for theirefficacy and safety profile.Ivermectin again showed efficacy and the combination with modified release doxycycline has significantly increased the number of patients achieving 100% lesion reduction, without compromising the safety profile" says Kamel Chaouche, Head of Global Medical Affairs Rx SIG, Galderma Nestlé Skin Health.
"Galderma has a long-standing commitment to skin health and we know that the impact dermatological conditions have on people is more than skin-deep, regardless of severity. ANSWERprovides us with important new evidencewhich supports our mission to help patients with rosacea to reach clear."
* The success of rosacea treatment is usually defined as a score of 1 ('almost clear') or 0 ('clear') on the 5-point Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) scale. Several studies have shown that patients who achieve 'clear' (IGA 0), a complete reduction in symptoms, experience an extended time to relapse and an improved quality of life compared with patients who are 'almost clear' (IGA 1)[5]
**DLQI is the most well-known quality-of-life index in dermatology[6]
Del Rosso J et al. Combined doxycycline 40 mg modified release capsules plus ivermectin 1% cream therapy for severe rosacea. 3 March 2019. Poster presented at 2019 AAD Annual Meeting, Washington, D.C., USA. Poster 10628
Webster G et al. J Dermatolog Treat. 2017;28(5):469-474
Shikiar R, et al. Health and Quality of Life Outcomes 2005;3:36
About Rosacea
Rosacea is a common inflammatory skin disease that presents variable clinical characteristics, of which the most common are flushing, permanent erythema, and inflammatory lesions. It mainly affects the central areas of the face, such as the cheeks and nose. The disease can affect both adult men and women, usually after the age of 30. Additionally, symptoms such as stinging, burning and increased sensitivity of the skin are common. The eyes are often affected, and might present as red, dry or itchy.
Although the cause of the disease is still under debate, various trigger factors are known, including spicy foods, alcohol, emotional stress, sun/UV-exposure, hot baths and beverages. Demodex, generally harmless mites, can also be found in the skin in an elevated quantity in people with rosacea.
Rosacea may worsen over time if left untreated. People that suspect they suffer from rosacea should visit their dermatologist or healthcare provider for diagnosis and discuss what treatment is right for them. Because rosacea is a highly visible disease, it is known to cause embarrassment and anxiety in some patients, which in turn may cause frustration and have a negative impact on their social life.
About ANSWER
ANSWER is a multicenter (US, EU, CAN), randomized, vehicle-controlled, investigator-blinded, parallel-group, comparison study treating patients with severe rosacea (IGA 4) with concomitant use of topical ivermectin 1% cream (IVM) and doxycycline 40 mg modified-release (DMR) capsules. The aim of the study was to evaluate if IVM + DMR association is more efficient than IVM + placebo alone. Patients received either IVM + DMR (n= 135) or IVM + placebo once daily for 12 weeks (n= 138). Subjects were ≥18 years, with >20 to max. 70 inflammatory lesions (papules and pustules) on the face.
About Galderma
Galderma, Nestlé Skin Health's medical solutions business, was created in 1981 and is now present in over 100 countries with an extensive product portfolio to treat a range of dermatological conditions. The company partners with health care practitioners around the world to meet the skin health needs of people throughout their lifetime. Galderma is a leader in research and development of scientifically-defined and medically-proven solutions for the skin. For more information, please visit http://www.galderma.com
SOURCE Galderma
Ontario's Specialized Geriatric Services See Opportunities in the People's Health Care Act, 2019
Breaking down barriers to better patient care is critical in the care of frail elderly
TORONTO, Feb. 28, 2019 /CNW/ - Leaders from across Ontario's Regional Geriatric Programs (RGPs) and Specialized Geriatric Services, clinicians who provide health care to older adults living with frailty, are very encouraged by the Ontario government's introduction of Bill 74, The People's Health Care Act, 2019. The Act's intention is to improve access to healthcare services and patient experience by breaking down barriers to better patient care.
Health professions working in the field of geriatrics see great opportunity for the proposed legislation to increase access to key services needed by older adults living with frailty. As the population of seniors continues to grow, system transformation will be necessary to ensure every Ontarian who needs it can access the complex continuing care necessary for them to live full and independent lives. Leaders in geriatric clinical services across Ontario are encouraged by the government's first step towards a model that breaks down the silos of the healthcare system and encourages providers of different kinds of care to work more closely together.
"The introduction of The People's Health Care Act is a very important step forward in the care of older adults living with frailty," said Dr. Kevin Young, Geriatrician and Co-Medical Director of the Provincial Geriatrics Leadership Office. Dr. Sophiya Benjamin, Dr. Young's Co-Medical Director, and a Geriatric Psychiatrist noted "we look forward to working with government to support transformation that better integrates services and will have a positive impact on patients and their families."
Regional Geriatric Programs and Specialized Geriatric Service teams provided expert care to more than 180,000 Ontarians in 2017/18. These health professionals see every day the critical importance of linkages between care settings to effectively treat and support older adults who require a range of services to stay healthy and independent. "In 2016, people over age 65 accounted for 46% of all health sector expenditures and 51% of all hospital expenditures1. Consequently, the key to ending hallway medicine and better care for seniors is improved, integrated seniors' care both in hospital as well as in the community. Specialists in seniors' care (Geriatric Medicine, Geriatric Psychiatry, Care of the Elderly and interprofessional geriatrics teams) are the key to improving seniors' care and to helping seniors' remain at home and out of hospital" said Dr. Frank Molnar, Geriatrician and Chair of the Regional Geriatric Programs of Ontario. "Given these numbers the key to ending hallway medicine is, clearly, improved seniors' care" Molnar said.
"It is our hope that the government will continue to rely on the expertise of clinicians and leaders in the field of geriatrics to inform the design of care and treatment services for frail elderly people in this new model," Benjamin said. "Older people, who have complex health problems, need access to specialized geriatric care teams that are specifically trained to meet their needs" noted Young.
About Regional Geriatric Programs and Specialized Geriatric Services in Ontario Regional Geriatric Programs (RGPs) and Specialized Geriatric Services form a network of specialized front line health providers who assess and treat functional, medical, and psychosocial aspects of illness and disability in older adults who have multiple, complex and continuing care needs. These services work in collaboration with primary care physicians, community health professionals, and others, to wrap care around the individual, helping older adults living with frailty remain healthy and independent as long as possible. Supporting these services has the potential to decreasing hallway medicine by keeping our seniors in the community rather that in hospital or long term care.
The Provincial Geriatrics Leadership Office provides leadership in the design of clinical models of care and health services for older people living with frailty.
_________________________
1 OHA, 2019
SOURCE Regional Geriatic Programs of Ontario
How Your Heart Benefits from a High Fiber Diet
Spreading the word about steps we can take to protect our heart health can only benefit us in the long run. Whether you opt to help your community or focus on your own home, protecting heart health is a goal worthy of pursuing.
One of the things your heart will be grateful for is a high fiber diet. Eating a lot of fiber has many proven health benefits, and it’s not difficult to incorporate it into your diet, either! Here’s everything you need to know about the high fiber diet and how your heart benefits from it:
Dietary Fiber — What Is It?
Before we can look for fiber in our food, we need to know what it is. By its structure, fiber is a carbohydrate, and its defining characteristic is that it passes through the body without being digested. The central division of fiber is the relation to dietary or functional fiber. This definition refers to the origins of the fiber: dietary fiber is found in food, while functional fiber mostly comes from supplements or foods that have been enriched with fiber.
Some of the foods rich in fiber are whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and beans. According to the recommendations of the Institute of Medicine, men up to 50 years of age should eat 38 grams of fiber per day, while that number for women is 25 grams. However, the statistics show that the average daily fiber intake in America is around 16 grams. It suggests there’s room for improvement, especially when it comes to improving heart health through diet.
How Fiber Benefits the Heart
One of the main ways in which fiber benefits heart health is by lowering cholesterol. Both LDL (which is known as “bad” cholesterol) and overall cholesterol can be brought down by a fiber-rich diet. The exact way fiber makes this possible is still unknown, but the assumption is that fiber binds to cholesterol particles and escorts them out of the body. In combination with healthy natural supplements that fight high cholesterol, fiber can be especially effective.
Other ways in which fiber contributes to heart health have to do with blood pressure and diabetes. Diet rich in fiber lowers the risk of a stroke by 36%, and type 2 diabetes by 30%. Eating a lot of fiber also promotes weight loss and reduces blood pressure, so it effectively deals with all factors connected to heart disease. The standing conclusion of the scientists is that a high fiber diet will help you live longer and remain healthy.
Even though a high-fiber diet has many health benefits, it’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor before changing your diet significantly. If you have to keep your cholesterol levels in check and you’re worried a change in diet won’t be enough, taking natural supplements to fight high cholesterol might help.
If you want to learn more about cholesterol, visit cholesterade.com.
Why women train? Gym time translates to energy, strength for daily life.
International Women’s Day is March 8 and this year’s theme is Balance for Better. Research shows many women are holding down a job and also taking on most of the work when it comes to managing children and the household. According to Statistics Canada research (2015) 46.3% of women reported feeling constantly under stress trying to accomplish more than they could handle, compared with 39.8% of men. For many, this requires nearly superhuman stamina and leaves them exhausted and stressed. For women balancing multiple roles, fitness is a rare opportunity for self-care, an outlet for stress relief and a chance to train for their busy lives. According to Kelly Musovic, personal training manager with GoodLife Fitness, more women are embracing strength training because of its physical benefits, and because it equips them to handle the pressures of daily life.
Whether you train with weights or just body weight, strength training is increasingly popular because it:
Burns more calories. Increasing muscle mass boosts metabolism; after a strength workout, the body continues to burn calories for 72 hours, compared to just 24 hours after a cardio workout.
Builds bone density, reduces injury risk. Stressing your muscles and bones with an increasing load can build strength in bones and muscles. It also helps improve coordination and balance, which can help protect against falls.
Strengthens your heart. Heart disease is the number one cause of premature death in Canadian women. Studies show lifting weights for less than an hour a week may reduce your risk for a heart attack or stroke by 40 to 70 percent
But there’s more to it than that. Strength training can help women prepare for the heavy lifting of their daily lives because of these reasons:
You feel stronger and more powerful (and you probably are). You look healthier. You’re reducing the risk of disease and hitting exercise goals. You have more energy for all aspects of your life, and you have the stamina to accomplish more. These all add to an increased sense of self-worth and empowerment.
Using your muscles triggers endorphins. A strength training workout can boost your mood, help with stress and contribute to a more balanced mindset.
You can get more done. With improved strength, better coordination and balance and more energy, you can get more done by yourself – from carrying the groceries, to mowing the lawn and shovelling to caring for others.
The good news is strength training isn’t limited to powerlifting, it can also be done with hand weights, resistance bands, medicine balls, and even bodyweight. Personal trainers in your area are available to talk more about how strength training helps women tackle their busy, stressful lives and demonstrate some of the best strength training exercises for women.
People-powered care: SE Health recognized as one of Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures
MARKHAM, ON, Feb. 28, 2019 /CNW/ - "It's a pretty typical winter day – it feels very Canadian out there," says a smiling Kathy Wilson, RN, who is on her way to see her fifth home care client of the day. Laden down with electronics, supplies and various tools of the trade, Kathy trudges heavily through the snow to the client's home. "People need to see us, we care about them. On a day like today, we need to be there, just like every other day. And I know we are needed and appreciated; that's why we do home care!"
This modest attribution comes from one of SE Health's cadre of visiting nurses. It's an example of the kind of people organizations need on their rosters to have their name listed as one of Canada's Most Admired™ Corporate Cultures. This program annually recognizes best-in-class Canadian organizations for having cultures that enhance performance and help sustain a competitive advantage.
As for the award, SE Health CEO Shirlee Sharkey credits staff with the honour. "Amazing, dedicated health professionals are at the core of our success – combined with the determination of a talented leadership team. It's an honour to receive this award." Secret success? Sharkey responds, "We are spreading hope and happiness, and we live and act based on that phrase – every day."
This attestation is based on some serious numbers: 20,000 health care visits per day and 50 million over the past 10 years. Building a vibrant, forward-thinking and energized culture doesn't happen overnight; Sharkey says she is humbled by the award, and is quick to recognize staff and leadership for their 'daily intention' to strengthen the culture.
SE Health's pioneering programs run the gamut – from partnering with hospitals and health systems, to delivering connected care, supporting health innovators, championing the caregiver and always re-examining the future. All of these initiatives ultimately feed into a culture of innovation, improvement and pride.
Read more about how SE Health is spreading hope and happiness:
Capes for kids – SE Health staff profile of health services supervisor, Amy Anderson
Paying it forward – visit our website for more stories of hope and happiness
About SE Health SE Health is a not-for-profit social enterprise applying knowledge, vision and drive to forever impact how people live and age at home, today and into the future. With Canadian roots and 110 years of expertise, the organization brings quality excellence and innovation to home care, seniors' lifestyle, and family caregiving. Through its team of 9,000 Leaders of Impact, SE Health delivers 20,000 care exchanges daily, totaling 50 million in the last decade alone. Visit us online at sehc.com.
SOURCE SE Health
Gaining Weight, Losing Energy? Your Hormones May Need This 4-Step Boost
Fatigue, weight gain, declining sex drive, decreasing muscle strength, irritability – all can be unwelcome signs of aging or stress for both men and women. Some doctors, however, think those symptoms often are rooted in a deeper problem: insufficient hormone levels. Studies show a gradual decline in testosterone begins for most men after age 30, and women can start struggling with hormonal imbalance between 35 and 40. Hormonal issues are associated with long-term, serious health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure. But before those arise, there are do-it-yourself ways to boost hormones or bring them back in balance, says Dr. Don Colbert (www.drcolbert.com), author of Dr. Colbert’s Hormone Health Zone. “The foundational, do-it-yourself plan is really the best place for most people, regardless of age or gender, to begin their hormone therapy,” Colbert says. “It is the basis of good health. “Millions of patients have been told their symptoms were due to aging, stress, or depression, and were probably prescribed an antidepressant. But what they probably need is, first, a blood test, and then to get on track to optimizing their hormones. When that happens, most of these symptoms can be relieved.” Dr. Colbert summarizes what people can do to restore hormonal equilibrium and enjoy better health and vitality: Use the Keto Zone diet. Dr. Colbert suggests this nutritional approach in which 70 percent of the daily food intake comes from fat (fish oil, seeds, nuts), 15 percent is protein (grass-fed meats, fish), and the remaining 15 percent is carbohydrates (salads, vegetables, herbs). “The Keto Zone diet is one of the best lifestyle diets you can be on because it is anti-inflammatory and burns fat,” Dr. Colbert says. “You lower inflammation by choosing anti-inflammatory foods and lowering sugars, carbs, and starches dramatically.” Increase exercise. Physical activity can strongly influence hormonal health. Two major benefits are lowering insulin levels and increasing testosterone. “Incorporating weight-lifting and some cardio like bike riding or walking on a regular basis make a big difference,” Dr. Colbert says. Find ways to relax. “Stress affects us in every conceivable way,” Dr. Colbert says. “Reducing it is a must for hormonal health. There’s a certain amount we endure, but developing ways to combat stress is key, lowering cortisol levels. When cortisol levels rise, it triggers calorie intake and even obesity. Try soothing music on a long commute, doing things you enjoy, cutting back on caffeine and electronics, turning the noise down in your life – in general taking more time for yourself.” Get more sleep. About one-third of adults don’t get enough sleep. Research shows those who fail to get enough sleep increase their risk of chronic disease. You should aim for seven hours nightly. “Increased sleep boosts the adrenal gland reserve by decreasing the amount of cortisol that the body produces when under extreme stress,” Dr. Colbert says. “Cortisol lowers testosterone levels, so fixing this one area would have a compound beneficial effect on the body.” “Can you boost all your different hormones by improving your lifestyle – changing your diet, exercising, having less stress, getting more sleep?” Dr. Colbert asks. “The answer is a resounding yes.” About Don Colbert, M.D. Don Colbert, M.D. (www.drcolbert.com), is the author of Dr. Colbert's Hormone Health Zone. He has been a board-certified family practice doctor for more than 25 years and has offices in Orlando, Fla., and Dallas. The author of over 40 books, he wrote two New York Times best-sellers - The Seven Pillars of Health and Dr. Colbert’s “I Can Do This” Diet – has sold more than 10 million books and treated 50,000-plus patients. Dr. Colbert is a frequent show guest of Christian leaders Joyce Meyer, John Hagee, and Kenneth Copeland and has been featured on The Dr. Oz Show, Fox News, ABC World News Tonight, and in periodicals such as Newsweek and Reader’s Digest.
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