With over two decades of excellence in cardiovascular care, Dr. Ratika Parkash has not only demonstrated clinical proficiency but also embodied a commitment to people-centered care. Dr. Parkash’s journey, marked by unwavering dedication and a thirst for knowledge, has shaped her into a renowned figure in her field.
Dr. Steve Wilton, a distinguished Cardiac Electrophysiologist and Associate Professor at the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine, embodies excellence in patient experience. With a fervent commitment to advancing cardiovascular health, Dr. Wilton's research program spans both clinical and health services domains. His focus lies in the prevention and treatment of prevalent cardiovascular diseases, aiming to alleviate their significant burden on individuals and communities alike. Moreover, Dr. Wilton assumes the pivotal role of Scientific Director for Alberta Health Services’ Cardiovascular Health and Stroke Strategic Clinical Network (SCN), a Network bringing together programs and services to improve the prevention, treatment, and management of cardiovascular disease.
In the realm of cardiology, where every heartbeat counts, the patient experience is paramount. Dr. Sarah Blissett, Cardiologist with the London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), Assistant Professor and Co-Program Director of the Cardiology Subspecialty Residency Program at Western University, stands as a beacon of people-centred care and innovation in her field.
Dr. Anthony Tang, a seasoned cardiologist with a wealth of experience, has impacts that reach far beyond medicine. His compassionate approach and clinical acumen have touched the lives of countless individuals. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Tang’s steady commitment to pushing the boundaries of cardiovascular medicine has helped to shape the future of cardiac care in Canada and beyond. A prolific researcher, his contributions to the field of cardiology are unparalleled. With over 100 peer-reviewed papers and more than 200 abstracts and presentations to his credit, he has cemented his reputation as a leading authority in device therapy for cardiac arrhythmias and heart failure. His ground-breaking work continues to pave the way for innovative treatment modalities that enhance patient outcomes.
For Canadians living with atrial fibrillation and heart failure, managing daily symptoms can be a constant challenge. But a groundbreaking study – RAFT-P&A for short – led by Dr. Habib Khan, Associate Scientist at the London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute (LHSCRI) and Cardiologist at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), could change that.
Creating educational materials (in both text and video format) that meet the needs of patients and caregivers is no easy task. It requires not only translational and medical expertise but also a deep understanding of how to incorporate the voices of the community they serve. Sarah Whibley and Thea Lee - key members of the CANet operations team - are doing just that. In partnership with the VIRTUES Patient Working Group, Sarah and Thea empower patients and caregivers to help shape the information they rely on to make informed decisions about their cardiovascular health. The outcome is educational materials that are more relevant and tailored to patients, a support appreciated by the patient community:
What if there was a tool that could bridge the gap between clinical research and patient preferences? How could a structured framework make it easier for patients to feel heard, understood, and involved? CANet’s Patient Advisory Council (PAC), a group of partners who’s goal is to amplify the voices of patients and caregivers, had those same questions. Enter the patient criteria grid, empowering CANet patient and caregiver partners to take a more active role in which research proposals get funded - outcomes of which could directly impact care for themselves and their loved ones. Hugh Winsor, patient and integral member of the PAC, jumped at the chance to work alongside his fellow council members to develop this formal patient criteria grid which established minimums for each research proposal seeking funding through CANet to proceed to the next stage.
