Prescription for Primary Care

The Healthcare Taboo: Private Options You Didn't Know Existed

In this episode of Prescription for Primary Care, we tackle the controversial topic of private healthcare options in Canada. We sit down with insurance professional Ingrid Gahsner from IMI Canada and Dr. Raymond Rupert from RCM Health and Healtheon to discuss how Canadians can access faster medical care options through private insurance.
Key Topics Covered:
Why Canada already has a two-tier healthcare system
How private medical insurance works alongside public healthcare
Real-world examples: From hernia clinics in Vienna to global medical options
Who's buying private healthcare (spoiler: 50% are physicians themselves)
Addressing concerns about healthcare equality and access
The difference between creating inequality vs. leveling the playing field
Whether you're frustrated with wait times, curious about your options, or wondering how private healthcare fits into Canada's universal system, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and open your eyes to possibilities you may not have known existed.
Guests:
Ingrid Gahsner- Founder, IMI Canada
Dr. Raymond Rupert, MD MBA - Founder and CEO | RCM Health Consultancy and Healtheon
Key Takeaways:
Canada already operates a two-tier healthcare system through employer benefits and private options
Private medical insurance is available to everyone, not just the wealthy
50% of private healthcare insurance buyers are physicians
The system works like any other insurance claim process
Private options can actually reduce public system wait times by moving people out of queues
Resources Mentioned:
IMI Canada: www.imicanada.co
RCM Health: www.rcmhealth.ca
Contact Information:
Ingrid Gahsner (IMI Canada): imicanada.co | LinkedIn
Dr. Rupert (RCM Health | Healtheon): rcmhealth.ca | healtheon.ca  

New Brunswick's Primary Care Transformation - Stephane Robichaud, CEO, New Brunswick Health Council

In this episode, we speak with Stephane Robichaud about New Brunswick's healthcare transformation, with a special focus on primary care challenges and the newly released Population Health Survey.
Key Topics Discussed
Primary Care Provider Access
Significant drop from 93% (2017) to 79% (2023) in residents with permanent primary care providers
Challenges in managing primary care compared to hospital-based services
Lack of clear accountability structures in the primary care sector
Emergency Department Utilization
51.9% of emergency department visits are for less urgent conditions (levels 4 and 5)
Discussion of how these cases might be better handled in primary care settings
The Population Health Survey
Recent release to New Brunswick residents
Potential to address healthcare challenges, particularly around emergency department utilization
Specific health indicators being tracked that weren't previously monitored
Digital Healthcare Solutions
MyHealthNB initiative expansion
How digital solutions can help the 21% of New Brunswickers without a primary care provider
Healthcare Professional Recruitment
Importance of community initiatives in attracting and retaining healthcare workers
Non-clinical approaches to building a stronger healthcare system
Highlighted Insights
Stephane emphasized the need for clear management structures in primary care
Regional health authorities should be ultimately responsible for primary care
Currently "no one really manages primary care" with providers working independently
Need for accountability frameworks for each health zone
About Our Guest
Stephane Robichaud is the CEO of the New Brunswick Health Council, an independent organization mandated to measure, monitor, and report on healthcare system performance in the province. Under his leadership, the Council conducts regular surveys including the Primary Care Survey and the newly released Population Health Survey. Stephane brings valuable insights on healthcare metrics, accountability frameworks, and system performance, with a particular focus on addressing New Brunswick's primary care challenges.
Call to Action
New Brunswick residents are encouraged to complete the new Population Health Survey to help shape better healthcare policies. 

Healtheon's Healthcare Master Plan for Towns and Rural Communities

Welcome back to Prescription for Primary Care.
 
Today’s episode is a little different—we used AI to generate this discussion on Canadian rural and town healthcare shortages. While the voices may sound unfamiliar, the content reflects real challenges and insights.
 
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this format!
Podcast Show Notes
Episode Overview
This deep dive explores the critical challenges facing rural communities when they lose primary healthcare providers, and the innovative solutions being implemented.
Key Topics Discussed
The Rural Healthcare Crisis
Small towns facing healthcare deserts when doctors retire
Communities spending $481 million annually filling provincial gaps
150,000 people in Ottawa lacking family doctors
Healthcare Master Plans
8 components for sustainable healthcare systems
Moving from reactive to proactive community health
Case Study: Community-Led Solutions
Town of 5,200 that doubled patient capacity after losing its doctor
Cost-effective model at just $1.95 per resident per year
Healtheon's Role
Successful Models for Healthcare Access
Addressing Systemic Issues
Based on research from Healthon.ca

Healing Canada with Advocacy with Cheryl Petruk, Founder of Heal Canada

Episode Show Notes
Patient Advocacy and Healthcare Transformation
Guest:
Cheryl Petruk, CEO and Founder of Heal Canada, discusses her journey from caregiver to passionate patient advocate, and shares how Heal Canada is working to amplify patient voices and create meaningful change in the healthcare system.
Key Discussion Points:
Cheryl's journey from caregiver to patient advocate
The mission and vision of Heal Canada
How Heal Canada collaborates with various patient advocacy groups
Building communities of support in healthcare
The importance of resource sharing in patient advocacy
Notable Quotes:
"All we ask is that they send the link out to the digital magazine to their community, because you never know when it will help one person... Then we've helped one more person, right? Then we've amplified the voice of the greater community."
"That's really what we're here for is to help one another."
"Whether you're a healthcare professional or a patient or a caregiver and you want to contribute to a meaningful change in our healthcare system, just reach out to us."
Key Takeaways:
Patient advocacy organizations like Heal Canada play a crucial role in transforming healthcare systems
Digital resources like E3 magazine provide accessible information for patients and caregivers
Collaboration between different advocacy groups creates greater impact
Small actions can have significant effects when helping even one person access needed information
Community building is essential for effective healthcare advocacy
Contact:
Website: www.healcanada.org
Past digital magazine issues available on the website
Reach out to Cheryl directly at Heal Canada for collaboration opportunities

Navigating the Path to Canadian Medical Practice With Dr. Rohini Patel

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rohini Patel from Can-Am Physician Recruiting to discuss the critical physician shortage in Canada and innovative solutions for international medical graduate (IMG) recruitment.
Dr. Patel, with over 12 years of experience in healthcare and physician recruitment, shares her expertise on navigating the complex landscape of bringing international physicians to Canada, while addressing the growing crisis of unattached patients across the country.
Key Points Discussed:
Current Physician Crisis in Canada
Provincial Licensing Landscape
International Medical Graduate Pathways
Approved vs. non-approved jurisdictions
Licensing requirements and examinations
Provincial variations in acceptance criteria
Streamlined Recruitment Solutions
Can-Am's comprehensive support system
Reducing administrative burden for healthcare facilities
Step-by-step guidance for international physicians
Team-Based Healthcare Approach
Integration with existing healthcare teams
Community-focused care delivery
Long-term sustainability strategies
Guest Information
Dr. Rohini Patel is a physician recruiter at Can-Am Physician Recruiting, bringing a unique perspective with her MD from Windsor School of Medicine and extensive experience in clinic operations management and EMR systems. Her focus is on bridging the gap between international medical graduates and Canadian healthcare needs.
Useful Links
Connect with Dr. Rohini Patel - linkedin.com/in/patelrohini
Can-Am Physician Recruiting - www.canamrecruiting.com
CanAm Physician Blog on Concierge Medicine - https://canamrecruiting.com/revolutionizing-healthcare-workforce-challenges-with-the-concierge-medicine-model/
Healtheon Partnership Announcement - https://canamrecruiting.com/exciting-partnership-announcement-canam-physician-recruiting-teams-up-with-healtheon/

Rationed Care: A Candid Conversation with Dr. Brian Day

In this episode, former Canadian Medical Association President Dr. Brian Day discusses the systemic challenges within Canada's healthcare system and potential solutions for reform. Drawing from his extensive experience as a surgeon and healthcare advocate, Dr. Day provides unique insights into the current state of Canadian healthcare.
Key Points Discussed:
Healthcare System Design
International Comparisons
Doctor Compensation & Access
Reform Proposals
Guest Information:
Dr. Brian Day served as President of the Canadian Medical Association and has been a leading voice in Canadian healthcare reform. As a practicing orthopedic surgeon and healthcare policy advocate, he has been instrumental in challenging existing healthcare delivery models through both legal and policy channels.
Twitter / X - @DrBrianDay
CBC News - Supreme Court dismisses B.C. doctor's appeal in challenge over access to private health care
Notable Quotes:
"We're paying in our country to stop people getting treated."
"The best and worst doctors are paid the same."
"Wait times flow from government rationing of healthcare" - BC Court of Appeal ruling
#HealthcareReform #CanadianHealthcare #WaitTimes #PrimaryCare #HealthcarePolicy

Better Primary Care in Nova Scotia

Episode Show Notes:
In this episode, we sit down with April Susin, President of the Nurse Practitioners Association of Nova Scotia, to discuss the crucial role of nurse practitioners in addressing Nova Scotia's primary care challenges. April shares her perspective on the positive impact nurse practitioners can have on health outcomes and advocates for every Nova Scotia resident to have the opportunity to involve a nurse practitioner in their care.
Key Points Discussed:
Understanding the positive impacts of nurse practitioners
Access to nurse practitioners for all Nova Scotians
Empowering nurse practitioners
The future of nurse practitioners in Nova Scotia
Guest Information:
April Susin is the President of the Nurse Practitioners Association of Nova Scotia. As a passionate advocate for the role of nurse practitioners in improving healthcare access and outcomes, April brings valuable insights to the discussion on addressing Nova Scotia's primary care challenges.
You can reach Aprill or the Association at President@npans.ca
Useful Links:
Nurse Practitioners Association of Nova Scotia - http://www.npans.ca/
Facebook

Patient Empowerment in Cancer Care with Karen Malkin-Lazarovitz

Episode Show Notes: Patient Empowerment in Cancer Care
Guest: Karen Malkin-Lazarovitz
Patient Health Advocate
Founder of EMPOWERink
Founder of BRCA Sisterhood
Advocate for personal empowerment and redefinition of beauty
Context: At a time when 6.5 million Canadians lack access to a family doctor, understanding how to navigate genetic health risks within our primary care system is more crucial than ever.
Key Discussion Points:
Patient Self-Advocacy
Importance of trusting one's instincts
Finding the right healthcare professionals
Balance between respect and assertiveness
Role of various healthcare providers, including nurses
Genetic Testing in Primary Care
Evolution of cancer genetics knowledge
Continuing education for healthcare providers
Challenges with keeping up with new developments
Healthcare Navigation
Working with multiple healthcare providers
Getting second opinions
Patient-provider relationship dynamics
Notable Quotes:
"Every doctor is just a person and they've all learned in a different way and they've been taught in a different system."
"There's the old school way of thinking as doctor knows best, but as a patient, we are learning that our voice matters too."
"It's your life and it's your body and you're the most important."
Key Takeaways:
Patients should feel empowered to advocate for themselves
The importance of seeking second opinions when needed
Medical knowledge, especially in genetics, is constantly evolving
Multiple healthcare professionals can be valuable resources
You can contact Karen through:
 
Website: www.empowerink.ca
email: karenlazarovitz@gmail.com
Instagram: @empowerink_ca
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EMPOWERinktattoos

International Doctors as Part of Canada's Healthcare Solution

Episode Notes
Navigating the Path: International Medical Graduates in Canada
Guest: Dr. Mariana da Silva Jardim, Vice-Chair, Internationally Trained Physicians of Ontario (ITPO).
Key Discussion Points:
Understanding Canadian Healthcare Roles
Unique aspects of Canadian healthcare system
Nurse practitioner role not common in other countries
Some international doctors pursuing NP pathway as an alternative
Pathways to Practice
Focus on utilizing physicians already in Canada
Limited residency spots (267 spots for family medicine vs 1,500 ITP applicants)
Special challenges for internationally trained physicians vs Canadians studying abroad
System Navigation Challenges
Cultural differences in application process
Importance of personal statements and reference letters
Need for Canadian-specific knowledge and experience
Alternative Pathways
Clinical Assistant role in Manitoba as an example
Practice-based assessment programs
Limited spots in existing programs (e.g., BC assessing only 30 people per year)
Support Systems
Mental health challenges during the process
Economic barriers
Importance of mentorship and networking
Notable Quotes:
"It's not about skills but about knowing how to work inside the system"
"Getting the support system in place for people who have knowledge, but also the personal experience is extremely important"
Key Takeaways:
Current system has limited pathways for international physicians
Need for more spots and alternative routes to practice
Importance of system knowledge and cultural understanding
Critical need for support systems and mentorship
About Our Guest:
Dr. da Silva Jardim brings both personal experience and professional expertise to this discussion. As someone who has successfully navigated the path from international medical graduate to practicing family physician in Canada, she now helps others through her role at ITPO. Her journey from Brazil to becoming a chief resident at the University of Toronto offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for internationally trained physicians in Canada.
Resources Mentioned:
International Trained Physicians of Ontario
Manitoba Clinical Assistant Program
BC Practice-Based Assessment
Resources & Links Mentioned:
International Trained Physicians of Ontario (ITPO): www.itpo.ca
Direct support and advocacy for internationally trained physicians in Ontario and across Canada
Alberta International Medical Graduates Association (AIMGA): www.aimga.ca
Resources and support for international medical graduates in Alberta
International Trained Physicians Association of Canada (ITPAC): www.itpac.ca
National organization supporting internationally trained physicians
Additional Resources Discussed:
Manitoba Clinical Assistant Program
BC Practice-Based Assessment
Contact Information: For direct inquiries about ITPO's work and support services, visit: www.itpo.ca
This episode highlights the challenges and potential solutions for integrating internationally trained physicians into the Canadian healthcare system, with a focus on creating more accessible pathways while maintaining quality of care.

Nurse Practitioners in New Brunswick: A Provincial Perspective on Primary Care

Episode Description
It's Season 2 of Prescription for Primary Care, and we're starting off with a chat with our friends in Eastern Canada!
In this episode, we explore the transformative potential of nurse practitioners in addressing New Brunswick's healthcare crisis with Sharon Hamilton, President of the Nurse Practitioners of New Brunswick.
Sharon shares her expertise on how nurse practitioners are positioned to revolutionize primary care access in New Brunswick and discusses the critical need for inclusive collaborative care models.
Key Points Discussed:
New Brunswick's Healthcare Landscape
Current state of primary care access in the region
180,000 residents without primary care providers
Potential solutions through nurse practitioner integration
Growing NP Workforce
Nurse practitioners as second-fastest growing profession nationally
45 new NP graduates expected in New Brunswick by 2025
Potential impact: serving up to 45,000 patients from current waitlists
Collaborative Care Models
Historical challenges in healthcare collaboration
Need for inclusive planning with healthcare professionals
Importance of developing sustainable funding models
Future of Healthcare Delivery
Role of nurse practitioners in primary care
Advocacy for publicly funded collaborative care clinics
Vision for accessible healthcare for all New Brunswick residents
Guest Information
Sharon Hamilton is the President of the Nurse Practitioners of New Brunswick. She completed her nurse practitioner training at Yale University in 2005, specializing in oncology and palliative care, before pursuing additional primary care education at the University of New Brunswick. Currently, she serves at the Fredericton Downtown Community Health Clinic and contributes to medical education as a lecturer at Dalhousie University's Faculty of Medicine.
You can find find the Nurse Practitioners of New Brunswick on:
Website: https://www.npnb.ca/
Facebook: @NPNBpublic
LinkedIn: @npnb-ipnb
Notable Quotes
"Nurse practitioners commonly secure rosters of nine hundred to one thousand patients within three years."
"Get the people at the table who are working on the ground, who know what needs to be done so that our healthcare system can thrive."