Program Update Fall 2024
Family Physicians in the Pacific Northwest Division of Family Practice (PNWDoFP) in British Columbia have been building a program of excellence to support patients who are living with Type 2 Diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Collaborating at HEC Workshop: Laurie Flood, Dr. Robert Boushel, Elder MaryLou McKay, Dr. Greg Linton, Coach Linda Lee
Based on results from their 2018 pilot led by Family Physicians, Clinical Exercise Specialists (Kinesiologists), and Dietitians that saw a 32.4% reversal in risk factors that lead to Type 2 diabetes, the program is now available in several Primary Care Networks (PCNs) in Northern BC and is expanding to additional PCNs in the province.
Some exciting recent developments include the following:
· CHANGE BC is deeply invested in exemplary healthcare partnerships, building Family Practice innovation that offers inclusive, and culturally safe care.
· Through this work hundreds of participants have participated in the CHANGE Program reporting positive changes in their lives, even 1-2 years after completing the twelve-month program. Engaged alumni groups are forming to build sustainability and momentum in their communities.
· Partnerships are flourishing with UBC and local colleges to promote learning in kinesiology, nutrition, and oral health as allied health team-based professionals.
· Culturally sensitive programming allows for adaptability of the CHANGE Program in different communities. Land based physical activity is supported through a focus on cultural learning and resources. We are grateful to have been supported by shared access to municipal and academic exercise spaces to increase accessibility to the community.
· CHANGE BC has received National recognition of this important program as a promising practice by Health Excellence Canada. CHANGE BC is honoured to receive coaching and support by HEC to enhance its evaluation framework for PCNs.
· CHANGE is supporting food security and culinary literacy programming through creation of community kitchens and gardens.
· News of the success and applicability of the program to Family Practice Team Based Care has resulted in interest by other PCNs regionally and provincially. The PNWDoFP is sharing best practices with those PCNs and other health care professionals across the country interested in offering the CHANGE Program to their patients.
· CHANGE BC is piloting oral health supports as part of the CHANGE Program, with creation of a mobile dental hygiene unit that supports patients who are unable to access care across 25% of the province. Recent research demonstrates the link between oral health and Type 2 Diabetes, and early detection is an important factor in reversing metabolic conditions.
