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DEPARTMENT OF MEDICINE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER


AUGUST 2022

In this update:

View previous updates

The SHORT Report

Member Updates

Kudos

Notices / Reminders

  • C3 is now LIVE
  • 2022 Making Waves Award nominations due Sep 9

Correction

Quick Reference / Recurring Content

Included:


DoM Resident newsletter 2022-2023

Residents 2022-2023

THE SHORT REPORT

Hi everyone!

I hope this newsletter finds all of you well and finding some time away from work to recharge your batteries this summer. I am actually writing this note while I am on vacation and realize how much I needed a break. The last two and a half years have been challenging and just plain exhausting for us all. I am thankful for all that Department members have done to get us through the pandemic thus far. As we settle into the new healthcare environment with COVID, it is more important than ever for us to support each other in our wellness, our teaching and research and our patient care. Burnout is at an all-time high, so listen to your bodies and take some time to recharge. It is the most important thing we can do for us and all those in our care. There are great wellness supports through Dalhousie, Nova Scotia Health, and Doctors NS (see the links below in our wellness section).


Over the summer, we welcomed core internal medicine residents, specialty and subspecialty residents as well as fellows to the Department. Join me in extending a warm welcome to each of them. We look forward to getting to know and working with you! Please see below for details.


Summer is also a time that we welcome new staff members. Have a read below and find some time to welcome them as you cross paths.

C3 logo

Nova Scotia Health's Care Coordination Centre (C3) is now up and running. This project is in evolution, but already helping others better understand the daily pressures on acute care medicine services. I am optimistic the data being generated will help support our patient care needs.

https://intra.nshealth.ca/C3/SitePages/Home.aspx


I hope you enjoy the stories and information in our summer edition of our newsletter. Don’t forget to send us your stories and ideas for next month.


Stay well,


Christine

Christine Short, MD, FRCP(C), FACP

Associate Professor & Head/Chief, Department of Medicine

Dalhousie University / Central Zone, Nova Scotia Health

Dr. Christine Short

Short

MEMBER UPDATES

WELCOME

We welcome the following members to their new positions:

  • Dr. Nicolas Berbenetz, Division of Cardiology, locum from July 1 to December 31, 2022


  • Dr. Andrew Caddell, Division of Cardiology, starting July 11, 2022


  • Dr. Margaret Sheridan, Division of Medical Oncology, locum from July 1 to November 30, 2022


  • Dr. Ashley Davidson, Division of Medical Oncology


  • Dr. Ziran Meng, Division of General Internal Medicine, locum from July 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023


  • Dr. Brian Moses, Division of General Internal Medicine, short locum in MTU for the weeks of July 29-August 4 and October 14-20, 2022


  • Dr. Alexandra Rogers, Division of Geriatric Medicine, full time starting July 11, 2022


  • Dr. Caitlin Tarlton, Division of Neurology, full time starting July 18, 2022.


  • Dr. Karam Al Jumaily, Division of Respirology, locum from July 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023


  • Dr. Alexandra Legge, Division of Rheumatology, starting July 1, 2022


  • Dr. Alia Bosworth, Division of Dermatology, Community Based effective July 1, 2022


  • Dr. Tahmina Wahab, Division of General Internal Medicine, effective July 1, 2022


  • Dr. Shannon Murphy, Division of Hematology, starting August 1, 2022


  • Dr. J. Mariah Hughes, Division of Infectious Diseases, starting August 1, 2022


  • Dr. Erin Maguire, Division of Dermatology, Community Based, starting August 1, 2022


  • Dr. Kristyna Cleminson, Division of Dermatology, Locum from August 15 to December 31, 2022


  • Dr. Teresa Rodriguez started a Clinical Fellowship with the Division of Respirology (supervisor Dr. Debra Morrison). Teresa is concurrently working in a locum capacity with the Division until March 31, 2023.


  • Dr. Tommy Brothers, Resident in General Internal Medicine, and Dr. Jasmine Mah, Resident in core internal medicine program, are continuing in the CIP program while concurrently completing their respective residencies.


  • July 7 - Vicky Triantafyllou joins the Division of Cardiology as Administrative Assistant to Drs. Caddell / Merrick / Cox.


  • July 25 - Haley Lively joins the Division of General Internal Medicine as Administrative Assistant to Drs. Workman / Manning.


  • August 2 - Kalisa Ganzeveld joins the Division of Division of Digestive Care & Endoscopy as Administrative Assistant for the Referral Line and Dr. Gruchy.


  • August 16 - Ellen Denny has returned from leave to the Division of Digestive Care & Endoscopy as Administrative Assistant to Drs. Kohansal / G. Williams. Cheryl Burton-Myles covered Ellen's position while on leave.


  • August 29 - Makaylah Farrell, Division of Respirology, replaces Shelley Sani. Shelly Sani accepted the Team Lead Role in June.

FAREWELL

We say farewell and best wishes to:

  • June - Dr. Mandat Maharaj celebrated for almost three decades of contributions to neurological services in Cape Breton. The cornerstone of neurology in Cape Breton. That’s how Dr. Laith Shimon describes his colleague and fellow neurologist Dr. Mandat Maharaj. In June, Dr. Maharaj semi-retired after 27 years of service within the Nova Scotia Health system, a 30-year career in neurology and many contributions to health care in Eastern Zone. Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Maharaj started his practice at Cape Breton Regional Hospital in 1996. He has been instrumental in the implementation of the hospital’s neurology service, including specialty clinics for multiple sclerosis (MS), electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyography (EMG) and Botox. He also set up one of the first non-academic stroke units in the country. In 2015, he received the Distinguished Service Award from Doctors Nova Scotia for his outstanding contributions to neurology and his commitment to providing professional development for local physicians. Dr. Maharaj will continue to work at the hospital part time. Congratulations Dr. Maharaj! Read story by Nova Scotia Health.


  • July 15 - Lynn Hines, Administrative Assistant, has left the Division of Hematology and moved to another opportunity at Nova Scotia Health.


  • July 22 - Valerie Orgar has left the DoM Administration (Central Office) for another opportunity.


  • July 27 - Abby MacGillivray is on leave until August 2023


  • July 29 - Heather LeBlanc has left the Division of Geriatric Medicine.


  • August 13 - Angela Anderson has left the Division of Hematology.


  • August 26 - Farewell to Lesley Dagley, Manager. Lesley’s last day with the department will be on Friday, August 26. Lesley has been with us for over 5 years. She has been a tremendous HR support to our administrative teams and a valued colleague – always the voice of reason. We wish Lesley all the best as she moves onto a new and exciting opportunity.

WELCOME NEW RESIDENTS

Residents 2022-2023

A warm and hearty welcome to the new core internal medicine residents, specialty, subspecialty residents and fellows to the department of medicine. We look forward to working with you.


For a full picture roster of the core internal medicine residents, click HERE.


If you would like to request a colour-printed copy of the resident roster, please email domeducation@nshealth.ca with your name and mailing address.


KUDOS

Dr. Mahmoud Elsawy helps bring CAR-T cell therapy cancer treatment to Atlantic Canada 


The Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre in Halifax became the first facility in Atlantic Canada to offer CAR -T cell therapy locally as of March 2022. Read more about how, Dr. Mahmoud Elsawy, Hematologist and Medical Director of Nova Scotia Health CAR-T Cell Therapy, worked with the government to bring the therapy to Nova Scotia. Dr. Sudeep Shivakumar and Dr. Darrell White were also quoted in the article. 


https://www.nshealth.ca/news/nova-scotia-health-first-atlantic-canada-offer-cutting-edge-cancer-treatment-car-t-cell-therapy 

Dr. Stephanie Snow, 2022 DMAA

Young Alumna of the Year


Dr. Stephanie Snow, Medical Oncologist, and will be honored at the Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association awards ceremony in November. This award is given each year to recognize an early career alumnus who has made a significant contribution to Dalhousie Medical School, other medical schools or their community, in the areas of clinical practice, teaching, research or public service. Congratulations and well-deserved, Dr. Snow!

Dr. Amy Trottier Successful in

NSH Health Research Fund Competition


Dr. Amy Trottier is the recipient of a NSH Research Fund grant for her application entitled, “Interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors on the development of plasma cell dyscrasias in the Maritime Provinces.” The funding was matched by the department’s University Internal Medicine Research Foundation (UIMRF) for grand total funding of $172,443.50 over 3 years. Congratulations to Dr. Trottier.

Dr. Kyle Murnaghan receives Emergency Medicine Award


Dr. Kyle Murnaghan was awarded the 2022 Consulting Resident Award from the Department of Emergency Medicine. Kyle recently completed his residency in Cardiology and is pursuing a critical care fellowship in Calgary. We wish Kyle all the best.

Dr. Rachel Sullivan, Dr. Tommy Brothers recognized at Faculty of Medicine Research Awards

 

Dr. Rachel Sullivan, DG&E Resident, won for Best Work in Clinical Research. Awarded to a resident who has incorporated research into their primary training program. Sponsor: Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association


Dr. Tommy Brothers, CIP and GIM Resident, won the Best Overall Award. Tommy will be given a CSCI membership for two years and a signed certificate from the CSCI President. Sponsors: CSCI/CIHR

Dr. Shane Journeay recognized by University of Toronto


Congratulations to Shane Journeay, Phd, MD, MPH, who was awarded the University of Toronto Division of PM&R Researcher of the Year Award for 2022. Dr. Journeay holds an academic appointment with the DoM and is a member of the DoM Research Committee.


Dr. T. Jock Murray inducted to Giants of Multiple Sclerosis recognition program


NeurologyLive, in partnership with the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC), recently announced the inaugural class of inductees for the Giants of Multiple Sclerosis recognition program. The premier neuroscience award that recognizes and celebrates the pioneers, innovators, and difference makers who have achieved landmark successes and have significantly contributed to the betterment of care for people with multiple sclerosis. Honorees were inducted into nine categories: Neurology, Neuroimaging, Research, Patient Care, Nursing, Rehabilitation, Pharmacy, Global Impact, and Mental Health.


Dr. T. Jock Murray, Professor in the Division of Neurology in the Department of Medicine, was the recipient in the Neurology category and was recognized with the other winners at an awards ceremony on June 2, 2022 at the Gaylord National Hotel and Conference Center in National Harbor, MD, during the 2022 CMSC Annual Meeting. 


Dr. Tommy Brothers’ international research team publication


Dr. Tommy Brothers, GIM sub-specialty resident is part of international research team from Dalhousie, Australia’s National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, and the United Kingdom, studying how opioid agonist treatment helps to prevent infection recurrence.


A long-term study was published on July 19, 2022.  Dr. Brothers hopes will continue to advocate for patients who struggle with substance use by providing addiction treatment and harm reduction services.


https://www.saltwire.com/halifax/news/local/study-highlights-how-opioid-agonist-treatment-helps-prevent-infection-recurrence-death-100755399/


Successful inaugural physician quality improvement rounds


From Apr. 20 to June 1, Nova Scotia Health and Doctors Nova Scotia hosted seven sessions of Quality Improvement Rounds for physicians on topics of great importance to inpatient care. Thank you to presenters:

  • Dr. Paul Bonnar
  • Dr. Paul Hernandez
  • Dr. Nabha Shetty
  • Dr. Sarah McMullen
  • Dr. Tanya Munroe
  • Dr. Andrew Moeller
  • Dr. Colm McParland


The series was successful and well attended and we thank more than 160 Nova Scotian physicians for participating, despite the many demands for your time. Each session offered CME credits from Dalhousie Continuing Medical Education.


For those who were not able to attend, the sessions were recorded and can be accessed here.


If you would like to attend the sessions coming this fall, sign up for updates here.


DID YOU KNOW?


Nova Scotia Health Medical Affairs

  • Physician Information and Wellness Portal


https://physicians.nshealth.ca/

Dr. Lisa Barrett named Alumna of the Year


Congratulations to Dr. Lisa Barrett for being named the Memorial University Alumna of the Year.


https://gazette.mun.ca/public-engagement/female-first/


NOTICES / REMINDERS

Core Internal Medicine Program Director - Call for Applications


Please see message below from the Core Internal Medicine Education Office:


The Department of Medicine is currently seeking applications for the role of Program Director for the Core Internal Medicine Program. This is a 5 year term opening April 1, 2023; with option to renew for a second term based on meeting performance expectations. Due to the scheduled program Internal Review in November 2022 we are asking the successful applicant to mentor alongside our current Program Director through the accreditation process over the early fall 2022 months. 


Full role overview attached for further information. This role includes chair of the Internal Medicine Program Director’s Committee (IMPDC) and PGME for the Department of Medicine.


Applicants must hold a faculty position in the Department, and Royal College certification in Internal Medicine. Interested applicants should apply to DOMEducation@nshealth.ca

(attention: Katie Barkhouse) with CV and letter of intent.


Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.


Thank you!

Dept of Medicine Education Office 


Katie Barkhouse

Manager-Education, Program Administrator | Administration | Department of Medicine

Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University – Central Zone, Nova Scotia Health

Call for Submissions! Get to Know Feature Articles


Do you have an interesting hobby or past time outside of work? We’d love to hear from you and learn more about what keeps you inspired.


If you’d like to be featured, please contact Isha Seth at isha.seth@nshealth.ca or 902-473-3251.

Updated MSI Physician's Manual - 2022


MSI released an updated MSI Physician’s Manual (2022). To download the updated manual, go to:


https://msi.medavie.bluecross.ca/physicians-manual/

2022 Making Waves Award nominations due

September 9, 2022

Due: Friday, September 9, 2022 at 4pm

Infohttp://www.cdha.nshealth.ca/making-waves


The Making Waves Awards program recognizes individuals and groups who have made outstanding contributions to the health and well-being of Nova Scotians. Every day, individuals and teams strive to deliver high quality care and services in all areas of our province.


The awards are designed to recognize exemplary efforts and contributions by employees, physicians, researchers and volunteers that advance our vision, mission, values and strategic directions.

Royal College 2023 Awards and Grants Program Open

Royal College logo

It’s awards-and-grants season at the Royal College and we are welcoming submissions. From celebrating an inspiring role model to showcasing a mark of determination in the face of change – we encourage you to use this platform to recognize your colleagues and peers.



Step 1

Consult the Royal College website for eligibility information.  

Royal College Awards and Grants

http://www.royalcollege.ca/rcsite/awards-grants-e

CORRECTION

Correction from previous newsletter – Dr. Margaret Sheridan


It was previously reported that Dr. Sheridan will join the Divisions of Medical Oncology as a locum as well as the Division of Digestive Care & Endoscopy for a fellowship.  


Correction: Dr. Sheridan will be joining the Division of Medical Oncology and completing a Fellowship specializing in hepatopancreatiobiliary and colorectal cancer malignancies as of December 1.

QUICK REFERENCE /

RECURRING CONTENT

COVID-19 Protocols at Nova Scotia Health

Nova Scotia Health is taking a phased approach to COVID-19 health and safety measures based on risk level in each zone.

Protocols

Documents below subject to change; refer to online version for latest updates.


This document outlines the protocols required for each level of risk (last revised July 26, 2022).


This map shows a visual representation of the risk levels (last revised July 19, 2022).

COVID-19 Hub

More info: https://covid19hub.nshealth.ca/covid-19

Mental Health & Well-Being


Doctors Nova Scotia: Professional Support Program


Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)


Canadian Psychological Association


LifeSpeak (Nova Scotia Health)


Nova Scotia Mental Health Crisis Line

  • 1-888-429-8167


Nova Scotia Crisis Text Line

  • Text – NSSTRONG to 741741


Online Wellness Sessions (NSH Library Services)


Nova Scotia Health’s Mental Health and Addictions Program (MHAP) has free e-Mental Health and Addictions tools available to all Nova Scotians including health care workers and physicians. These tools include:



Mindwell U - free online support that takes just five minutes a day, and can be accessed anywhere and on any device. This service is available in English and French. https://app.mindwellu.com/novascotia



Therapy Assistance Online (TAO) – free and private online resource that includes interactive activities and videos for people having challenges with their mental health. This service is available in English and French. https://www.taoconnect.org/



Wellness Together Canada – mental health and substance abuse support that contains free online resources, tools, apps and connections to trained volunteers and qualified mental health professionals when needed. https://wellnesstogether.ca/en-CA



Togetherall – free and safe online peer-to-peer mental health community that empowers individuals to anonymously seek and provide support 24/7. It is available to all youth and young adults aged 16-29, providing an inclusive and supportive place to connect with others with real lived experience with common mental health concerns. To sign up go to togetherall.com and use your Nova Scotia postal code to register. https://togetherall.com/en-ca/


For more online tools, and how to register, visit MHAhelpNS.ca/tools.

Department of Medicine

Awards & Recognition

The DoM Awards & Recognition Committee would like all department members to be aware of upcoming award deadlines.


If you have received an award or are submitting a nomination on behalf of any member in the Department, please advise the DoM Awards & Recognition Committee by emailing anne.veinotte@nshealth.ca.



DoM SharePoint site @ Nova Scotia Health

https://sharepoint.nshealth.ca/DeptMed

(Restricted to department members with NSH login)

OR

DoM SharePoint site @ Dalhousie University

https://dalu.sharepoint.com/sites/dom

(Restricted to department members with NetID)

DoM Grand Rounds

Summer Grand Rounds 2021 (playlist)

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlLxbpWu5dHGHrLmpOBwzO2cGicepkmn9


DoM Grand Rounds Sept 2021 - June 2022 (playlist)

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlLxbpWu5dHGA9ngjTJ7CApcBtkmK1Pt3


Videos are unlisted on the Department of Medicine YouTube channel, so you must have the link to view. All recordings are copyright.

DoM Research

Resident Research

https://sites.google.com/view/domresidentresearch


The page was initially developed for the resident group but it’s also useful to faculty and their research teams. DoM Research wants to ensure that the link is easily accessible to anyone in the department.

Nova Scotia Health

COVID-19

http://www.nshealth.ca/coronavirus


https://covid19hub.nshealth.ca/covid-19

PPE Videos

Donning & doffing: PPE used for droplet and contact precautions


Donning, doffing, and storage of healthcare procedure masks

Library Services

COVID-19 resources for health care providers

https://library.nshealth.ca/?group_id=15444

Occupational Health Safety & Wellness

OHSW Reporting Forms

https://ohswreporting.nshealth.ca/Kics/formlist.php


  • Do you have symptoms of COVID and need help with OHSW?
  • Phone 1-833-750-0632




Spectrum MD App

(Antimicrobial Stewardship)

https://spectrum.app/nsha/


Nova Scotia Health logo needs to be visible in 8the upper left corner of the home screen to ensure you are accessing local content.

Zoom for Healthcare

https://nshealth.zoom.us/

Additional Links

Dalhousie University

Faculty of Medicine

https://medicine.dal.ca/news/covid.html

Doctors Nova Scotia

doctorsns.com

Personal Directive

https://www.legalinfo.org/forms/personal-directive


Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia

Complete online then download or email document. Once signed and witnessed, it is valid.

Nova Scotia

novascotia.ca/coronavirus

When you take care of yourself, you take care of others.

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