Latest News & Events
Lung Cancer
May 10, 2012
Lung cancer is still the deadliest from of the disease in Alberta.
Gardening for Health
May 5, 2012
Planting your seeds to better health -- Growing your garden can have a significant positive effect on your personal health.
Good News for Daffodil Month
April 8, 2012
Recent studies have shown that more than half of all cancer is preventable.
Better Helmets Needed On Slopes
February 8, 2012
Many ski and snowboard helmets sold in Canada provide about as much protection from brain injuries as toques, Canada's top medical journal is warning.
New Information for Drivers with Diabetes
January 19, 2012
Drivers with diabetes benefit from new medical reporting rules
National Non-Smoking Week
January 15, 2012
National Non-Smoking Week is Jan 15- 21 and AHS is focusing its attention on high school students with this year's campaign.
'mend' Program Ages 7-13
November 22, 2011
FREE fun sessions for 7-13 year olds who are above a healthy weight, and their parents.
Family Doctors Week
October 26, 2011
Family Doctor Week is October 31 - November 5
Influenza Immunization
October 17, 2011
It's that time of year again! Read on for the Who, What, When, Where & Why's of our friend - the Flu Shot.
There is help. There is hope.
September 9, 2011
There is a great deal of stigma surrounding depression and suicide, resulting in the subjects being considered 'taboo' and kept in the shadows, out of the public eye. This is why every year, the 10th of September is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as World Suicide Prevention Day.
This is a day that is dedicated to bringing the subject of suicide to the fore - shedding light on what is truly a global problem. The WHO estimates that around the world, around one million people commit suicide each year, including more than 3,000 in Canada alone. Although the number of young men committing suicide seems to have increased over the past couple of decades, suicides among women have fallen. The reasons for these changes are currently not well understood. Many countries still lack reliable suicide statistics, and even countries with reliable statistics may lack knowledge about the magnitude of the problem within (some of) their minority populations.
Suicide is a complex and multifactorial phenomenon with cultural differences, but there are still some suicide prevention efforts that might have "universal" effect.
Click the link above to continue reading.
Back To School Health Checklist (AHS)
September 6, 2011
Getting your child ready in the fall for school involves more than just purchasing shiny new school supplies and trendy clothing.
It also involves updating your child's immunizations, making appointments for routine screening tests and informing the school of any health issues your child may have.
Keep track of everything during this busy time with this handy back-to-school health checklist created by Alberta Health Services.
AHS Back to School Health Checklist
http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/576.asp
September and Cancer Awareness
September 3, 2011
When it comes to promoting awareness of the health issues surrounding cancer, the month of September is an important one.
As recognized by the Canadian Cancer Society, September is Men’s Cancer Health Awareness Month, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and Ovarian Cancer Month.
The Chinook Primary Care Network is pleased to assist in spreading information about these serious issues.
Click here to read more...
Two new physicians in Lethbridge
August 24, 2011
The Chinook Primary Care Network is pleased to announce two new family physicians who have joined a network clinic, both now practicing within the city of Lethbridge.
Dr. Garland Jonker is now a member of the Campbell Clinic South location, while Dr. Bly is with the Campbell Clinic West.
Both are new physicians, who specialize in family medicine, including obstetrics. Both physicians are accepting new patients at this time.
See the Campbell Clinic pages for more detailed contact information!
Milk River swim ban lifted
August 17, 2011
Alberta Health Services has lifted a fecal coliform health advisory warning for Milk River at Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park, saying the water is now safe.
The original warning, issued a month ago, was the third time in seven years high levels of fecal coliform in the Milk River at Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park prompted a health warning for swimmers to stay out of the water.
"Weekly water testing has confirmed that all bacterial levels are now well below maximum acceptable guidelines, meaning water is again safe for swimming and wading," said a statement from Alberta Health Services.
Don't let the bugs get you down!
August 3, 2011
After a spring season that saw a lot of rain, this summer is certainly turning out to be an itchy one! Mosquitoes are all over right now -buzzing around and sticking their ugly noses into everyone’s business. Click the link above to learn more about protecting yourself from mosquito bites and the potential risks of the mosquito-borne West Nile Virus.
Milk River off limits for swimming
July 26, 2011
Originally published in the Calgary Herald - July 25th, 2011
For the third time in seven years, high levels of fecal coliform in the Milk River at Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park have prompted a health warning for swimmers to stay out of the water.
Signs have been posted in the park warning campers that a dip in the river could lead to skin, ear or eye infections - and illness - if water is swallowed.
Click above to continue reading...
A big welcome to our newest physician
July 25, 2011
As of July 25th, 2011 the Campbell Clinic South and Chinook Primary Care Network are pleased to welcome Dr. Garland Jonker to the Campbell Clinic team! Dr. Jonker is a new physician, who has recently finished his residency from the Bow Valley. It's great to have him with us!
What you should know about this heat wave
July 19, 2011
Many southern Albertans are likely delighted with the heat wave we're experiencing this weekend, with temperatures soaring up to 34 degrees. With this being said however, there are some serious health concerns that accompany such high temperatures. Click the link above to hear what the Canadian Red Cross are recommending, particularly for the young and old.
Attention all seniors!
July 13, 2011
The Greek proverb “Age brings experience and a good mind, wisdom” is certainly true when it comes to experience and older drivers. Aging drivers have significant experience and usually drive at safer speeds, often have a large number of kilometres “under their belts,” are less likely to take risks behind the wheel, and tend to adjust their driving to match their ability.
With the Baby Boomer population aging, Statistics Canada predicts by 2026, nearly 5 million Canadians – more than 20% of all drivers, will be 65 or older. Yet with all their experience, aging drivers are still subject to changes in vision, reaction time, flexibility, and physical fitness that can influence their driving ability - the trick is to learn how to compensate for them.
The Alberta Motor Association (AMA) recognizes that individuals age at different rates, and is committed to ensuring driver mobility for as long as it is safely possible. A newly created information booklet has been created by the AMA to help aging drivers maintain their independence while limiting the driving risks to themselves and others. For your health and safety, we are pleased to share this new AMA resource with you, the public.
Click the link above to access this new Tips for Aging Drivers resource.
Severe summer weather
July 8, 2011
With our semi-arid environment and low-lying prairies, we can often watch a thunderstorm forming a hundred miles away. Yet severe weather warnings can quickly change to tornado warnings - sometimes in a matter of minutes. Click the link above to learn how to protect you and your family when severe weather conditions are moving in.
Primary Care Networks are working!
July 4, 2011
An independent, third party evaluation was called for last year, regarding the successes and effectiveness of Primary Care Network's in our province.
On June 3rd, 2011, a letter was published by Dr. Patrick J. White, President of the Alberta Medical Association, summarizing the findings of this evaluation which is now complete. As the AMA have now made the evaluation available to the public and any interested parties, click the link above to learn more, or to read the letter which includes links to the actual report in its entirety.
So what exactly is a Primary Care Network?
June 14, 2011
Did you know that there are now 41 Primary Care Networks (PCNs) operating throughout Alberta? With over 80 per cent of eligible family physicians working within these networks, if you’ve got a family doctor – chances are good that you’re seeing the effects of PCNs, whether you’re aware of it or not! Click the link above to read more.
June is Stroke Month in Canada
June 2, 2011
Stroke is the third leading cause of death in Canada, with 6 percent of all deaths due to stroke. During Stroke Month, we’re reminded to learn about stroke, know its warning signs and consider what lifestyle changes we can take to help reduce the risks.
Know The Five Signs of Stroke
Stroke can be treated. That's why it is so important to recognize and respond to the warning signs.
Weakness - Sudden loss of strength or sudden numbness in the face, arm or leg, even if temporary.
Trouble speaking - Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding or sudden confusion, even if temporary.
Vision problems - Sudden trouble with vision, even if temporary.
Headache - Sudden severe and unusual headache.
Dizziness - Sudden loss of balance, especially with any of the above signs.
For more information about Strokes, Stroke Month and Stroke Prevention, click the link above!
Alberta's PCNs are improving health care
May 22, 2011
Originally published in the Edmonton Journal...
In a recent meeting of the legislature's all-party public accounts committee, Health Deputy Minister Jay Ramotar raised a question about the benefits of Primary Care Networks (PCNs) in our province.
As the executive director of one of Alberta's largest and most mature PCNs (established in 2005), the Chinook Primary Care Network, I am pleased to see his question, both because it recognizes the critical role of primary care to the functioning of the entire health system, and because PCNs can prove they are making a significant difference.
Click this link to read the full original article, written by the Chinook Primary Care Network's Executive Director.
5-Minute Fitness!!
May 19, 2011
Despite all the hustle and bustle in the world, most people aren’t physically active enough to reach their best state of health. Without regular exercise, serious health issues can arise – ranging from minor aches and pains through to obesity, diabetes, depression and even cancers. But have no fear!
Even if you think there just aren’t enough hours in the day, evidence suggests that even engaging in short, five-minute ‘workouts’ can have lasting health benefits. The simple truth is, even when you’re always on the go, you can still fit in some fitness.
Click the link above to view a poster featuring fast and easy tricks to get a little more exercise in your life!
Let's celebrate our nurses!
May 9, 2011
Nursing: The Health of Our Nation.
That is the official motto for 2011's National Nursing Week, which takes place from May 9 - May 13. This is a week set aside, meant to honour and celebrate Canadian nurses and their dedication to patient care and the health-care system. There are over 3100 nurses working in Southern Alberta alone. These tireless employees dedicate their lives to improving the lives of others, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. To these nurses, for your patience, hard work, kindness and compassion - a heartfelt thank you from the Chinook Primary Care Network.
Click the link above to read more about National Nursing Week, in the form of an open letter from the President of the Canadian Nurses Association.
Happy Mother's Day!
May 8, 2011
From the Chinook Primary Care Network, to all of you new mothers, practiced mothers, grandmothers, and other mothers - a happy Mother's Day to you!!!
MyHealth Alberta portal launching May 4
May 2, 2011
On May 4, Alberta Health and Wellness (AHW) and Alberta Health Services (AHS) will be launching the first phase of their joint initiative: MyHealth.Alberta.ca.
The MyHealth portal will provide information and a number of tools that can help Albertans make important decisions about their health.
Patients will be able to search over 8,750 health topics and find information on health conditions, tests, treatments and medications. They will also be able to review health alerts, use checkup tools and learn more about healthy living.
MyHealth content will be reviewed and updated by Alberta health professionals to ensure it reflects provincial health standards and practices – a collaborative effort to create a health site that Albertans can trust.
National Day of Mourning kicks off Occupational Safety and Health Week, May 1-7
Just as last year, Alberta Health Services has declared Thursday, April 28, as an official day of mourning to remember workers who have been killed or injured on the job.
April 28, 2011
With approximately 800,000 occupational incidents occurring in Canada each year, the need to reduce the number of on-the-job deaths and injuries is highlighted every single day. The National Day of Mourning is a time for each of us to remember that we all have a role to play in achieving a safe and healthy workplace.
Click above to read more!
A warm welcome to our newest members
The Chinook Primary Care Network would like to extend a warm welcome to Drs. Michael and Anna Nsisi, the newest members of our southern Alberta team. This husband and wife duo have been practicing physicians in Lethbridge since January of 2008. In October 2010, they established their own family practice clinic. It's great to have you with us!
April 19, 2011
The Nsisi clinic is located in the PEAK Health Centre building at 715 2nd Ave. S. in in Lethbridge.
April 7, 2011 is World Health Day
April 7, 2011 is World Health Day, a day commemorating the founding of the World Health Organization. The topic for World Health Day 2011 is antimicrobial resistance – geared towards promoting the prudent use of antibiotics in Canada and around the world. Click the link above to learn more!
April 4, 2011
Announcing the new Chinook Breeze!
March 31, 2011
We are pleased to present the second edition of our Chinook Primary Care Network newsletter. Open the attached PDF link to read all about success stories, upcoming events, physicians and staff within our network, issues affecting health care in our region and much, much more!
March is Kidney Health Awareness Month
March 15, 2011
March is National Kidney Health Month in Canada. At the Chinook Primary Care Network, we want you to take a moment to think about your kidney health.
Your kidneys perform three essential functions:
1. Regulate and retain a body’s water content
2. Filter out harmful waste
3. Produce important hormones
Diabetes continues to be the predominant cause of kidney conditions in Canada. It is estimated that up to 40,000 Canadians are living with chronic kidney disease today.
Click the link above to learn more about the importance of kidney health.
Managing diabetes is a family affair
March 7, 2011
On Thursday, March 10, Alberta Health Services is hosting a special discussion on Diabetes and the Family for members of the public interested in learning more about how to improve quality of life while dealing more effectively with the disease.
As part of AHS’ Building Healthy Lifestyles program, guest speaker Joe Solowiejczyk, RN, MSW, will discuss how family dynamics can impact the management of diabetes and the interventions that can be used for more effective coping and metabolic control. Click above to read more details!
Did you know that February is Heart Month?
February 1, 2011
A preventable tragedy
Nine out of ten Canadians have at least one risk factor for heart disease or stroke. But the good news is that 80% of early/premature onset of these diseases is preventable. In fact, there are nine risk factors that you can control:
- Smoking
- Physical inactivity
- High blood pressure
- Unhealthy diet
- Being overweight
- High blood cholesterol
- Stress
- Diabetes
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Click above to learn more about Heart Month!
The Dangers of Dieting
January 28, 2011
Did you know that February 3rd - 9th is known as Canadian National Eating Disorders Awareness Week?
There are many different kinds of food and weight preoccupations, including eating disorders. This section aims at de-mystifying issues relating to dieting, food, weight concerns, shape concerns, self-esteem and body image. To do so, we will be looking at those influences that most contribute to how we feel about our selves and our bodies, and that ultimately can help us make healthier choices for more enjoyable lives.
Click this heading to learn more about eating disorders in Canada.
A New Doc on the Clock
At the Crowsnest Pass Medical Clinic, you’ll find a new doctor in town.
January 15, 2011
Dr. Kristy Penner originally hails from Conora, Ontario. Moving to Alberta in 2001, she took bio-chemistry in Lethbridge, attended medical school in Edmonton, and did her family medicine residency in Lethbridge.
Click the heading of this story to read more!
Happy New Years!
January 1, 2011
Wishing you a happy and healthy 2011, from all your friends at the Chinook Primary Care Network. Alll the best to each and every one of you.
Preventing Influenza is everyone's business
Influenza activity has been steadily increasing around Alberta, and is expected to continue to increase during the holiday season. Influenza immunization is the best defense against influenza. Not only does immunization protect you from illness, by getting immunized, you’re also reducing risk of spreading illness to co-workers, family, clients, residents and patients. Influenza vaccine continues to be available
December 27, 2010
'Tis the season!
December 12, 2010
From all of us at the Chinook Primary Care Network, wishing you a happy, healthy holiday season and a great new year! Seasons greetings!
Did you know that...
December 3, 2010
Did you know that today - December 3, 2010 - is officially recognized as the United Nations International Day of Disabled Persons? Click here to find out more!
November is National Diabetes Month in Canada
Did you know that more than 9,000,000 Canadians of all ages are living with diabetes or pre-diabetes?
November 18, 2010
If diabetes is left untreated or improperly managed, it can result in a variety of complications, including: heart disease, kidney disease, eye disease, impotence and nerve damage.
November 14 - 20 is National Addiction Awareness Week
November 12, 2010
No matter our colour, creed, age or gender; addictions affect us all. Substance abuse and serious addictions are devastating health problems that have an immense impact on individuals, families, communities and society. While the patterns of addictions may vary, the underlying characteristics are always the same:
* a compulsion to continue the behaviour
* a loss of control
* repeat pursuit of the addiction in spite of all adverse consequences
At the Chinook Primary Care Network, we believe that with the power of families, positive attitudes and healthy lifestyles, there is always hope for recovery. This November, we want you to celebrate the benefits of living your lives free from addiction. Awareness is the first step.
Ask your local primary care provider about mental health and addiction support services in your community.
Influenza Vaccinations
October 21, 2010
All Albertans (six months of age and older) are eligible to receive this year’s influenza vaccine, free of charge. For 2010, a single influenza shot protects you against both seasonal influenza and H1N1. While those at higher risk of severe influenza illness are encouraged to get immunized early in the influenza season, it is important for all Albertans to get their influenza immunization, this year and every year.
The stated provincial target for immunization is 60 per cent of the population, but a main goal is to ensure that people with underlying chronic conditions (such as asthmatics and diabetics, the very young and the elderly) get vaccinated, as they are more vulnerable to complications of the flu.
Click on the link above to find more information about immunization schedules in your region!
Alberta Celebrates Family Doctors
October 10, 2010
Press release:
The Alberta College of Family Physicians (ACFP) is proud to celebrate Family Doctor Week in Canada, October 11-16, 2010. This celebration acknowledges the outstanding contributions of Canada’s family doctors for their commitment to their patients, and the delivery of high quality healthcare.
Albertans depend on their family doctor in every stage throughout their lives, and value their special doctor-patient relationship, says Dr. Paul Humphries, President of the Alberta College of Family Physicians.
The 7th Annual Family Doctor Week in Canada presents Albertans with an opportunity to thank family doctors for their dedication and compassion, which is often taken for granted. Please join us in recognizing family doctors in our communities.
Click the link above for more information.
Arthritis Community Education Forum - October 18th
Arthritis Community Education Forum
October 6, 2010
Empower yourself… Learn more about living with arthritis
Featuring a panel of medical experts including:
- Dr. Arbillaga, Rheumatologist
- Dr. Stephen Kwan, Orthopedic Surgeon
When: Monday, October 18, 2010
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Southminster United Church, 1011 – 4 Ave. S., Lethbridge
Cost: FREE Registration
For more information:
call: 1-800-321-1433; or write to: info@ab.arthritis.ca
Nitsitapii Wellness Program
September 28, 2010
For 10 years, the Nitsitapii Wellness Program has encouraged the urban Aboriginal population to learn how to safeguard its health and wellness.
The upcoming 10-week session of the Nitsitapii Wellness Program, designed by an Aboriginal psychologist and an Aboriginal nurse, integrates traditional and alternative approaches to health and wellness while holding fast to the philosophy of the Medicine Wheel: Balance.
The Nitsitapii Wellness Program reinforces the belief that mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health are intertwined and that a balance needs to be sought to achieve optimum wellness. Aboriginal culture and values are always encouraged and the program recognizes the importance of delivering the program through Aboriginal staff members.
The Nitsitapii Wellness Program begins Tuesday, October 5 from
Fitting into the big picture
Did you know that presently, Alberta has 35 Primary Care Networks (PCNs) with another eight in development? More than 70 per cent of all family physicians in the province are part of PCNs. That’s over 2000 physicians. The greater goal is to have 80 per cent of all Albertans receiving care from PCN teams by 2011.
September 26, 2010
Every PCN is unique because it is developed locally by area family physicians in cooperation with the local health region and other health professionals such as nurses and dietitians. This grassroots approach allows – and encourages – the PCN to focus on the needs of the local patient population.
Click on the attached link to see how our Chinook Primary Care Network fits into the big picture!
Asthma and Back to School
September 10, 2010
Asthma is the most common chronic illness in children and the #1 reason for missing school in
Click above for some tips to get a head start on the
Presenting.... Chinook Breeze Vol. I
September 1, 2010
Hello everyone and welcome to the Chinook Primary Care Network website. Our network includes over 100 physicians at over 20 locations in Southern Alberta, all working in collaboration to continually better your personal health care experience.
We are pleased to announce the publication of the very first Chinook Primary Care Network newsletter; Chinook Breeze - Healthy Teams for Healthy Communities. This is the first of many seasonal newsletters, proudly presenting updates, improvements, and success stories from our region. Simply click the highlighted link above to see a digital version.
Sincerely,
Chris Hibbard
CPCN Communications Coordinator
Free upcoming SECS workshop!
An upcoming one-day workshop in Lethbridge will benefit nurses, social workers, pharmacists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, physicians, dietitians, care coordinators, administrators, policy makers, and other health care professionals who support patient/client care.
August 31, 2010
This workshop, which includes modules on both Supporting Emotional and Spiritual Health and Chronic Disease Management and Diversity is completely free, and will be taking place in Lethbridge on September 28th, 2010. All health care employees in southern Alberta are encouraged to attend.
Open the linked attachment for more details!
Primary Care Networks in Alberta
August 30, 2010
Today, Alberta has 35 Primary Care Networks (PCNs) with another eight in development. More than 70 per cent of all family physicians in the province are part of PCNs. That’s over 2000 physicians. The goal is to have 80 per cent of all Albertans receiving care from PCN teams by 2011.
Every PCN is unique because it is developed locally by area family physicians in cooperation with the local health region and other health professionals such as nurses and dietitians. This grassroots approach allows – and encourages – the PCN to focus on the needs of the local patient population.
Primary Care Networks in Alberta
August 25, 2010
Today, Alberta has 35 Primary Care Networks (PCNs) with another eight in development. More than 70 per cent of all family physicians in the province are part of PCNs. That’s over 2000 physicians. The goal is to have 80 per cent of all Albertans receiving care from PCN teams by 2011.
Every PCN is unique because it is developed locally by area family physicians in cooperation with the local health region and other health professionals such as nurses and dietitians. This grassroots approach allows – and encourages – the PCN to focus on the needs of the local patient population.
Click the link above to see a map of Alberta's Primary Care Networks, and to see just how our Chinook PCN fits in!
Southern Alberta physician honoured
August 20, 2010
An Alberta physician from Taber who has provided outstanding medical services and who has also proven his commitment to rural medical practice and to rural communities has been selected as the 2010 recipient of a prestigious provincial publicly-nominated award presented by The Alberta Rural Physician Action Plan (RPAP).
Dr. Robert Wedel of Taber is the 2010 recipient of the Alberta Rural Physician Award of Distinction. The RPAP Award of Distinction is presented annually to an Alberta rural family physician who lives and has worked in rural Alberta for at least 12 years, and who demonstrates a superior commitment and contribution to the community through medical practice, teaching of other health professionals, conducting research, and volunteering in the community.
Congratulations Dr. Wedel! Thanks for all your hard work!
Read more by clicking through and following the links!
Getting Fit for Life!
Regular exercise and physical activity are important to the physical and mental health of almost everyone, including older adults. Being physically active can help youcontinue to do the things you enjoy and stay independent as you age. Regular physical activity over long periods of time can produce long-term health benefits.
August 16, 2010
That’s why health experts say that older adults should be active every day to maintain their health. In addition, regular exercise and physical activity can reduce the risk of developing some diseases and disabilities that develop as people grow older.
In some cases, exercise is an effective treatment for many chronic conditions. For example, studies show that people with arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes benefit from regular exercise. Exercise also helps people with high blood pressure, balance problems, or difficulty walking.
Check out this link to read more about Getting Fit For Life, from the National Institure on Aging.
Your CPCN Leadership Committee
The Chinook Primary Care Network Leadership Committee is comprised of physicians and Alberta Health Services representatives who work in collaboration to direct the vision of primary health care delivery within our zone . The committee is comprised of three distinct groups working together: Physician Representation, Alberta Health Services Representatives, and Non-Voting Members. In total, there are 33 members, many of whom can be seen by following the link above. The CPCN Leadership Committee meets at the call of the Chair, typically between four and eight times per year.
June 23, 2010
Weather warnings; advisories
June 21, 2010
Just when it seemed relief was in store, more rain is set to hit the Prairies. This week may see major thunderstorms with heavy precipitation; and even potential funnel clouds.
The following advisories are in effect until further notice.
Fort Macleod - Boil Water Advisory
Lethbridge - Coulee areas/parks closed due to dangerosly high river levels and flow speed
Stand Off - State of emergency still in effect, Red Cross assisting on site
Because of the extreme conditions people are advised to stay away from rivers.
Click above for more details.
Live Well, Age Well - Conference registration deadline extended
April 29, 2010
Getting to the point of immunizations
April 9, 2010
Please see the attached document for an upcoming AHS event at the University of Lethbridge.
This should be a great night, full of relevant information for both the public, and health-care providers.
Lethbridge Cancer Centre Moves; New Phone Number
April 8, 2010
On April 12th the Lethbridge Cancer Centre will begin to care for its patients in newly renovated space in the southwest wing of
April is Cancer Awareness Month
Each year at this time we are reminded about cancer. It used to be - when the Canadian Cancer Society was formed in 1938 - that cancer was a virtual death sentence, with only about a 25% survival rate. Thankfully, times have changed. Now, more than 60% of those diagnosed with cancer will triumph over this disease.
April 1, 2010
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month!
March 2, 2010
Many people are unaware that in this year alone, roughly 20,000 Canadians will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. An estimated 8,500 will die from this terrible disease. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer and the third most common form of cancer among Canadian men and women .
In Alberta alone, 2010 is expected to see an estimated 1,780 estimated new colorectal cancer cases, and an estimated 660 colorectal cancer-related deaths.
Click above for more information.
Have you been immunized?
February 10, 2010
It's not too late to get your influenza shot! It's still winter out there across Alberta and along with it, it's still influenza season too! Influenza viruses are expected to continue to circulate in Alberta's communities and have the potential to spread influenza illness. Alberta Health Services continues to offer influenza immunization to Albertans, to protect them from serious illness from influenza.
Click for more details about Lethbridge area immunization clinic locations and hours of operation.
Healthy Living Canada – a free online self-management workshop!
January 7, 2010
Is pain, fatigue, stress or other symptoms from ongoing health conditions stopping someone you know from living their life to the fullest?
(click here for more details)
Dangers of Extreme Cold
December 2, 2009
Winter Danger - Frostbite and Hypothermia
What to do when faced with extreme cold conditions. Click on title bar above to view attached document.
Cold, Ice and Snow Safety
December 1, 2009
Winter isn't a time to just stay indoors and wait for spring. There's a whole wonderland of sports out there for the entire family — sledding, snowmobiling, and snowboarding, to mention a few. Plus, someone has to shovel the snow, right? Once outdoors, however, take precautions to keep your family safe. In ice and snow, accidents can occur easily, and before you know it you might be on your way to the emergency room. Certain injuries are more common in the winter because cold-weather activities like ice-skating, sledding, snowboarding, and skiing can lead to accidents. Emergency rooms typically see abdominal, head, back, neck and leg and ankle injuries in the winter months. Also, some illnesses are more common when the weather turns colder. Respiratory ailments, especially viruses like the flu, are prevalent because people stay indoors more and thus are exposed to more airborne germs. Click on the above title bar for more winter fun-related health and safety information!
H1N1 Vaccinations now available for all Albertans
November 23, 2009
H1N1 Vaccinations now available for all Albertans. Click here for more information.
Clinics Accepting New Patients?
November 1, 2009
If you're wondering about which clinics are accepting new patients at this time, please follow this link to learn more:
http://www.cpsa.ab.ca/PhysicianSearch/AdvancedSearch.aspx
The Flu and You and What To Do
October 15, 2009
Flu season has arrived. The following link will clearly relate everything you need to know about staying healthy this Fall and Winter, complete with H1N1 immunization information.
http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/887.asp
Influenza A H1N1 (SOIV) Information for the General Public
The H1N1 Influenza A virus continues to circulate in Alberta. It is very important for citizens to continue to practice basic precautions to reduce the spread of the virus. Follow this link for more comprehensive H1N1 information.
July 28, 2009
Your comprehensive source for health information
July 24, 2009
Follow this link to find an extensive and varied collection of health-related resources, from treating the common cold and caring for skin, hair and nails; to cancers, diabetes, poison control and addiction services. If you want health information, this link is for you!
http://www.healthlinkalberta.ca/default.htm
Swine Flu information
April 29, 2009
For information regarding the current Swine Flu situation, please visit the following Alberta Health Services links:
CPCN Increases Access For Patients
May 15, 2008
News Release: May 14, 2008
Coping With Life's Diversity
May 5, 2008
If you or someone you know has suffered a loss, you are welcome to come and find out what this new group is all about. Sponsored by the Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization.
Living With Stroke - Interactive Learning Sessions
May 1, 2008
Free Classes to Improve Your Health!
March 3, 2008
The Chinook Health, Building Healthy Lifestyles program offers free classes throughout the region to help residents live a healthy life.
Community Good Food Club
June 28, 2007
The Community Good Food Club is a non-profit organization focused on providing members with affordable, fresh produce. By signing up for the Good Food Club, members will receive a box overflowing with fruits and vegetables each month.
CPCN - Celebrating our Successes
June 14, 2007
The Chinook Primary Care Network launched in March 2006 with 11 medical clinics. Today there are 23 clinic sites and more than 110 doctors participating in partnership with Chinook Health.
Distributed Education Model: A Workforce Solution?
March 22, 2007
Providing access to a family physician in a rural setting is one of the greatest challenges facing the health-care sector, said Dr. Roger Strasser, a general practitioner and founding dean of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine.
Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions
February 15, 2007
Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions is a licensee of the Stanford Chronic Disease Self-Management Program developed at Stanford University in California.
Primary Care Initiative Improving Job Satisfaction, Health Outcomes
February 8, 2007
Dr. Tobias Gelber says continuity of care is making a difference in terms of his job satisfaction, his commitment to his panel of patients and – most importantly – the health outcomes of his patients.
A New Way to Deliver Primary Health Care
March 17, 2006
The Chinook Primary Care Network holds its official launch at the Lethbridge Lodge Hotel...
Primary Care - Media Backgrounder
March 17, 2006
Primary care is the first point of contact a person has with the health system where people receive care for most of their everyday health and wellness needs.
Chinook Primary Care Network to Enhance Care
February 2, 2006
A new approach to providing primary care services is already demonstrating great success. In five southern Alberta physician clinics – part of the Chinook Primary Care Network (CPCN) – patients have begun to see improvement in access to their family physicians.
Western provinces receive funding for chronic disease support
January 17, 2005
Canada's four western provinces will share $8 million in federal funding to implement common data standards and electronic messages to manage information related to three chronic diseases; diabetes, hypertension and renal failure (or kidney disease).
