Some of the most substantial opportunities for transformative care, QI and research lie within primary care. Clinical research in primary care means that results are more generalizable to daily practice. Primary care practice-based learning and research networks are key building blocks for knowledge production, dissemination and practice improvement.
This research poster was presented at the North American Primary Care Research Group (NAPCRG) Practice-Based Research Network Conference in June 2022. It presents the results of the Alliance's first learning collaborative, which supported member centres in equitably clearing their cancer screening backlogs built up through the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Alliance for Healthier Communities, a network of team-based comprehensive primary health care organizations across Ontario, is implementing the Community Vaccination Promotion – Ontario (CVP-ON) project to promote equitable access to and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines for in marginalized communities most affected by the pandemic. 12 Alliance member organizations are being resourced to provide tailored vaccine promotion communication and outreach initiatives.
It is recommended that individuals living with diabetes have their eyes examined for signs of retinopathy annually. Even with access to eye care resources across Canada, including tele-ophthalmology, many individuals with diabetes remain unscreened with screening rates lowest in vulnerable populations. A population-based approach to identify, engage, and provide screening is needed.
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of blindness in working age Canadians. Despite all eye care resources, including tele-ophthalmology, DR screening rates remain low; 35% of individuals with diabetes are unscreened for DR. New strategies are required to identify, engage and provide ongoing monitoring to those requiring DR screening.
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a public health issue, potentially impacting the lives of 3 million or more Canadians (7.9% of the population). If DR is detected early, vision loss can be averted. It is currently impossible to systematically identify individuals living with diabetes who have not had an annual eye examination using only primary care electronic medical records. A different approach is required.
