2022 - 2023 CPD Program Updates

CPD is committed to incorporating equity, diversity, inclusivity, indigeneity and accessibility into all elements of program design and delivery. We believe that effective CPD can contribute to a more compassionate and socially just healthcare system.

Developed in alignment with the health action items outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Final Report, the new Call to Action digital series supports practice change through a holistic understanding of Indigenous health. Over 5 sessions from September to October 2022, participants learned about the social and distal determinants of Indigenous health from patient perspectives and reflected on the impact of historical events on health outcomes. The series aimed to set participants on a career-long path of self-reflection, listening and learning necessary in providing culturally safe care and becoming a true ally and health leader.

Participants from across the country convened at two national, multidisciplinary conferences this past year to learn about innovative ideas and projects focused on improving health equity. In October 2022, the Canadian Children, Youth, and Communities Health In | Equity Conference focused on eliminating barriers to health care access for under-serviced, high-risk, and economically disadvantaged children and youth. The Canadian Health and Well-being in Developmental Disabilities Conference returned in February 2023 and shared practices that contribute to positive physical and mental health outcomes for people with developmental disabilities across the lifespan. Interactive, workshop-based learning was a core feature in each online conference. Patient and family advocates also shared their lived experience navigating the health care system during keynote presentations. Building on the strides made this past year, both conferences will return in 2023-24 to continue important dialogue.

CPD expanded Narrative-Based Medicine programming over the past 12 months with several new offerings exploring innovative focus areas and narrative-based approaches.

In addition to the Foundational Certificate in Narrative-Based Medicine and the Advanced Certificate in Narrative-Based Medicine we delivered 10 unique offerings spanning multi-session series, experiential workshops and activities that introduced Narrative-Based Medicine to a wider audience. Learners explored the relevance of visual art to the practice of medicine, honed narrative strategies for building resilience and so much more. Members of our community also shared their own creative work, participated in close reading and reflective writing activities and heard from guest speakers during our 3 drop-in Literary Lunch Hours. The year culminated with an in-person installment of the new Narrative-Based Medicine Speaker Series. Moving forward, we are excited to host writers, clinicians and thinkers for thought-provoking conversations that illuminate creative applications of Narrative-Based Medicine.

Responding to positive learner feedback and interest, planned programming for 2023-24 will continue to highlight the positive impact working with stories can have on both patient care and practitioner fulfillment.

Recognizing the need to adequately prepare health professionals to address challenges posed by environmental changes on human health, CPD launched Taking Action on Planetary Health in February 2023.

Centered on group-based learning, this digital certificate program emphasizes the role health professionals play in responding to the climate crisis. Working in multidisciplinary teams, learners receive guidance as they conceptualize a climate-resilient plan of action with the goal of improving the health of their patients and communities. All components of the program work towards building community and capacity amongst health professionals committed to planetary health promotion and action. Our first cohort of learners will complete the program in June 2023 and begin implementing their interventions in practice.