By Dr. Cathy Scrimshaw
1. Primary Care COVID-19 Pathway Explained
https://www.specialistlink.ca/files/RW_COVID_V6.pdf
This webinar series is from the Calgary PCN’s group and covered several topics including a public health update, mental health advice, and tools as well as presentation of the primary care pathway for COVID-19 care. Physicians presented the primary care pathway for patients with COVID-19 disease from family medicine and speciality. They clearly outlined the evidence for each step of the pathway, had helpful links to tools that could be used, outlined risk stratification of patients and when to send to ER, and how to access information and advice on cases in the community. It is a great example of integration of health system players in an evidence-based pathway.
2. Rural ER Management in the Time of COVID
https://ecme.ucalgary.ca/covid-19-cme-resources/rural-videoconference/
From isolation set ups, screening check lists, “rural hacks” for PPE donning and doffing, as well as intubation of the suspected COVID patient, in Wetaskiwin, to the virtual simulation experiences and lessons learned from Wabasca, to the experiences of the doctors in High River managing the largest outbreak in Canada, this webinar is full of tips tools and real life experiences. Adam Vyse’s description of managing COVID patients using the primary care pathway, and having virtual conversations with patient, paramedic, and specialist to determine the best place for care was an example of an integrated health system that we should aspire to. Take a look at the webinar to see the tools, and lessons learned by our rural colleagues.
3. COVID Consequences – The Shadow Pandemic: Impact on the Vulnerable Family
https://ecme.ucalgary.ca/covid-19-cme-resources/covid-corner/
The impact of COVID-19 and the pandemic extends beyond caring for the sick COVID patient. This webinar follows the story of a family dealing with issues of alcohol use disorder, domestic violence and stress, anxiety, and mental health issues in children. Monty Ghosh and his team remind us of the importance of screening for alcohol use in our virtual visits. They offer a virtual withdrawal pathway for alcohol use disorder as well as ongoing virtual resources and supports. The use of pharmacological treatment of alcohol use disorder is reviewed as well. Suzanne Squires discusses ways to broach the subject of violence in the home, as well as use of the SAFE tool and resources available to our patients in violent situations. April Elliott outlines tools and coaching approaches for youth and children in vulnerable situations. A valuable learning session with tips and tools for everyday practice in a virtual clinical encounter.
