The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan, or AHCIP, is a publicly administered and funded health care system run by AHS Alberta Health Services. It provides residents with access to medically-necessary hospital and health care services. In addition, it covers health care costs such as doctor-provided medical services, diagnostic services (x-rays, lab tests, etc.) and hospital accommodation. The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) provides eligible Alberta residents with full coverage for medically necessary physician services and dental and oral surgical health services. What’s Covered Nursing services Laboratory, x-ray and diagnostic procedures Accommodations at a standard level and meals Medications Operating room, care room, radiotherapy, physiotherapy and anesthetic facilities Routine surgical equipment and supplies Inter-facility transfer in Alberta by ambulance What’s Partly Covered The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan provides partial coverage for podiatry, optometry, and some specialized dental services only in Alberta. These services are not covered outside of Alberta. These services have benefit limits or maximums per benefit year. What’s Maybe Covered The physician will determine if the following insured services are considered medically necessary. If they are, they will be covered under AHCIP Physician visits Psychiatrist visits Diagnostic services including laboratory, radiological (x-rays) Oral and maxillofacial surgery services Bariatric surgery for Albertans who are eligible under the Wise Weight program Breast augmentation and mastectomy for transgender surgery Hospital visits and stays What’s Not Covered Complementary or alternative medical treatments, such as a chiropractor, massage therapist, naturopath, nutritionist or social worker Psychologist Cosmetic surgery (e.g. tummy tuck), unless medically required. Prescription drugs other than those prescribed during a hospital stay Eye examinations for adults aged 19-64, unless medically necessary Eyeglasses, contacts or laser eye surgery Medical appliances or mobility devices, such as wheelchair Hearing aids Dental treatments Ambulance services, unless transferring from one medical facility to another. Eligibility Requirement legally entitled to be in and remain in Canada and make your permanent home in Alberta committed to being physically present in Alberta for at least 183 days in any 12 months not claiming residency or obtaining benefits under a claim of residence in another province, territory or country any other person deemed by the regulations to be a resident or temporary resident, not including a tourist, transient or visitor to Alberta How To Apply Application for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (gov.ab.ca)
OHIP – Ontario Health Insurance Plan
Ontario Health Insurance Plan covers many emergencies and preventative medical care costs. While many people are aware of the basics covered by OHIP, such as doctor visits and emergency health care, costs that are not covered can sometimes cause misunderstanding. What’s Covered (Partially or Fully) Doctor visits Hospital visits and stays Medical or surgical abortions Eligible dental surgery Eligible eye-health/optometry services Ambulance services Travel for health services if you live in Northern Ontario What’s Not Covered Prescription drugs are provided in non-hospital settings for individuals under the age of 65 Alternative medicine consultation treatments, including Chinese medicine, homeopathy and Reiki Chiropractic services Dental services provided in a dentist’s office Eyeglasses, contact lenses Laser eye surgery Cosmetic procedures Immunizations for travel (Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Twinrix, HPV) OHIP Plus (+) OHIP+ provides drug products for patients 24 years and under who are not covered by a private plan at no cost. Those who are eligible for OHIP Plus do not need to enroll. All they need is a health card number and a valid prescription for an eligible medication. Medication Covered under OHIP Plus Antibiotics to treat infections Inhalers for asthma Medications for diabetics such as insulin and diabetes test strips Medications to treat arthritis, epilepsy and other chronic conditions Medication/drugs for attention deficit disorder (ADHD) Medications/drugs to treat childhood cancers or other rare conditions Epinephrine injectable products Medications/drugs to treat mental health conditions Help to quit smoking: This can include up to a year of pharmacist-assisted counselling and medication for those who are 18 years or older. OHIP For Seniors All OHIP-insured seniors aged 65 years and over automatically qualify for the Ontario Drug Benefit Program, commonly referred to as the ODB program. This program provides seniors with expanded coverage to ensure they have access to the healthcare they need. Additional benefits for seniors include: Coverage for visits to the optometrist every two years Coverage for most prescription medications Important Home care, massage, physiotherapy and dental services are not covered. Eligibility Requirement (Any One of The Following) You are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered as an Indian under the Indian Act. You have submitted an application for permanent residence in Canada, and Citizenship and immigration in Canada have confirmed that you meet the eligibility requirements to apply for permanent residence. You are a “protected person,” such as a refugee or a person in need of protection. Additionally, you must be in Ontario for at least 153 days of the first 183 days immediately following the date you established residence in Ontario. You also need to be sure you are in Ontario for at least 153 days in any 12-month period. How To Apply Book an Appointment at Service Ontario Centre Proof of ID and residency in Ontario will be required.
Importance of Empathetic Work Environment
Defining Empathy In The Workplace Empathy is the ability to understand and relate to other people’s thoughts, emotions, or experiences. Furthermore, people with high levels of empathy are skilled at understanding a situation from another person’s perspective and reacting with compassion. Moreover, empathy at the workplace means that your employees can establish genuine, empathetic connections with one another, which helps build strong peer relationships and enhance productivity and performance. In this Medical Resource by the Canada Medical Exams Society, we will explore the importance of empathy in the workplace, clarifying the difference between sympathy and empathy. Followed by providing techniques and steps to help you encourage empathy within your organization and become an empathetic leader. Lastly, how an emphatic environment can increase productivity and help business growth will also be highlighted. The estimated read time is 4-6 minutes. Sympathy Or Empathy It is essential to understand the differentiation between Sympathy and Empathy, which are often confused and considered in the same context. Sympathy is when you feel pity for someone without understanding the feeling they are going through by putting yourself in their situation. On the other hand, Empathy is your ability to imagine yourself in one’s situation and feel the pain, ideas or emotions of that person. Empathy in the workplace is vital as it increases productivity and builds a supportive environment. How You Can Encourage Empathy In Your Organization Empathy is a skill set which can be learned. To some leaders, it comes naturally, which helps them build a strong relationship with their team members and gain an advantage over other managers. However, most leaders fall in people with low to no empathy. However, if enough time is given, one can learn this skill with training and development opportunities and initiatives. Thus, to help you encourage empathy within your organization, we have selected the following five (5) ways and techniques you can adapt. Openly Talk About Empathy – Signal Its Value Teach Listening Skills Encourage Genuine Perspective-Taking Cultivate Compassion Practice Global Hiring How You Can Become An Emphatic Leader Empathetic leaders are assets to organizations. A compassionate working environment is essential to effectively build and maintain relationships, which is a critical part of leading organizations anywhere globally. Furthermore, displaying empathetic leadership can take many shapes and forms. Therefore, we recommend leaders take the following four (4) steps to show greater empathy in the workplace and become emphatic leaders to the team. Watch Burnouts Signs In Others Show Sincere Interest In the Needs, Hopes And Desires Of Your Colleagues Demonstrate A Willingness To Help Show Compassion At Other’s Loss Empathy Leads Towards Business Growth Encouraging Empathy in the workplace is the way forward. Especially during these post-pandemic times, when your employees are in most need of your support, leaders who excel in empathy will more easily build long-lasting relationships with their employees. Furthermore, if your workers feel safe and supported within your organization, they will reciprocate with loyalty and dedication. Thus, empathy within the workplace is important; it’s good for your team and will undoubtedly result in advanced productivity and business growth. Help Your Colleague When In Need of Support When you find your colleague in times of distress, the best you can do is empathize with their pain or loss. However, emphasizing them will not be the solution to their hard times. They may require medical help to recover. Therefore, we have gathered some of the best go-to help centres that specialize in helping people suffering through a distressing phase of life. Please check our selection below and find a centre near you. Canadian Mental Health Association BC Mental Health & Substance Use Services Crisis Intervention & Suicide Prevention Centre of BC Coast Mental Health Access & Assessment Centre Homewood Health Did You Know? CMHA Mental Health Week is May 2nd – 8th, 2022. Individuals and Businesses throughout Canada are supporting this cause and raising awareness of the Mental Well-being of Canadians. The Canada Medical Exams Society advocates the wellness and growth of individuals, employees and students across Canada. Therefore, we strongly support Mental Health awareness raised by CMHA and urge all our readers to provide their support too. Utilize the power of social media. Share your support! #GetReal #MentalHealthWeek Thank You for reading our Medical Resource on the Importance of Empathetic Work Environment. We hope you found our article informative and important. We have more blogs for you to read, gain information and enjoy. Feedback and Suggestions for other blog topics are warmly welcome.
Spots during Summer: Can they be a sign of Skin Cancer?
Sunspots vs Skin Cancer Is this your first summer in Vancouver, B.C.? You will fall in love with the sunshine and warmer temperature the city has to offer. There is no better time to stay outside in Vancouver than the hot summer days. Furthermore, we all know the importance of staying hydrated, applying sunscreens and wearing a hat is important. However, you will be no new to sunspots during summer in Vancouver. Additionally, as sunspots are normal, do not overlook them, as they may signify skin cancer. This article will firstly help you understand how to detect possibilities of skin cancer as characterized by the Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation. Then, how you can self-assess your skin. Lastly, we will help you determine when to see a skincare specialist. The read time is estimated to be 4-5 minutes. Look out for a Melanoma during Summer Melanoma is a very common and one of the most serious types of skin cancer. While Melanoma is most common in people with lighter skin, those with darker skin colour can develop it too. Moreover, Melanoma can develop anywhere in your body. However, the most common places where Melanoma develops are body parts most exposed to direct sun, such as; the face, back, arms and legs. Furthermore, it can also form inside your body like the eyes, nose or throat, but very rarely. Thus, as you detect any of the following symptoms, you must visit a skincare specialist for prevention measures immediately. Early Detection of Skin Cancer The following are the characteristics of skin moles that you should look out for on your skin for the early detection of skin cancer. A = Asymmetry – one half is unlike the other B = Border – blurry or jagged edges C = Colour – more than one shade or colour D = Diameter – Bigger than six millimetres E = Evolution – if a mole or birthmark changes in size, shape or colour, it might be serious Note: The Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation presents the above early detection of Skin Cancer indicators. Other Possible Detection of Skin Cancer Apart from the possibilities mentioned above, you must visit a skin care specialist if you see any of the following changes in your skin conditions; A sore that stayed in for a long time Regular sores at the same body part A mole or sore that bleeds or produces pus Rough or scaly red patches Small, smooth and shiny lumps that are pearly white, pink or red Pale or yellow flat areas that look like scars Learn More about how to detect Skin Cancer at an early stage. Self-Assess Your Skin We have gathered some tips on assessing your skin health yourself and detecting any possibilities of growing skin disease. Firstly, scan your skin under bright lighting. Next, use a full-length mirror and prepare to turn and twist to see every inch of your body. Start with your upper body. Scan your front and arms first. Then raise your hands to see your underarms area. Then twist around to scan the back of your body. Lastly, look for any moles or spots on your hands and fingers. Moving on to scanning the lower part of your body, start with checking your feet. Look at the tops and soles of your feet, including toenails and spaces between your toes. Moreover, move on to assess your legs (front and back) and then to your genital area and between your buttocks. Lastly, examine your face, neck (front then back) and scalp area. Using a comb to scan your scalp area would be a good idea. Also, asking someone, maybe a friend or family member, to help you scan your body would be ideal, especially for parts where it is hard to reach an eye out. When to See a Skincare Specialist & What to Expect It is good to see a skincare specialist immediately as soon as you detect any irregularities in your skin conditions. You can also visit your family practice for an early assessment of your skin condition. Your family practitioner will refer you to a skincare specialist if your condition seems abnormal. Furthermore, you can directly visit a skin clinic near you for expert advice. However, the great news is that your full body screening, including examining your skin condition, is included in the Student Medical Exam. Furthermore, other than the physical screening of your body, the SME doctor will also provide you with suggestions on taking blood tests, X-rays, and further medical treatments (if required). Lastly, the doctor’s report will provide you with recommendations for health improvements and wellness (if needed). Thus, to stay healthy physically and mentally, book your SME today to detect growing viruses and diseases in your body. Thank you for reading our blog. We have more blogs for you to read, gain information and enjoy. Feedback and Suggestions for other blog topics are warmly welcome.
Tips for dealing with homesickness – Feel at home in Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby and other parts of B.C. Canada
Welcome to Canada. Studying abroad, far away from your family, can be challenging and, at times, upsetting. We understand. However, if surrounded by the right people in a supportive environment, the journey can be joyful. Firstly, if you have just moved to Canada in recent weeks, you may be finding yourself disconnected from your friends and family. This feeling of being lonely and away from loved ones is homesickness. Homesickness Is An Illness That Can Be Very Harmful Homesickness can affect not only your mental health but also your physical wellness. Various occasions and events can trigger homesickness. However, homesickness can be harmful; it is very common and completely normal. Anyone moving away from their loved ones feels the same as any other person. Thus, although homesickness is not easy to tackle, it can be dealt with. We have gathered some tips on dealing with homesickness faster and how you can feel at home in Vancouver, B.C. The estimated read time of this article is 6-8 Minutes. Explore the New City Firstly, explore the beauty of your new home city. Vancouver, in fact, the whole of British Columbia, is beautiful. Explore new places, restaurants, bars and public places near you. Experiencing new things to do can help you feel good and avoid homesickness. Furthermore, find something to do nearby that attracts your interest. Maybe find a local go-to cafe or a park. Staying outdoors during free time can help you stay fresh. Avoid Homesickness by Looking Forward to New Things A new city means new people, new friends. Thus, plan new adventures in Vancouver and other surrounding towns with your friends. Weekly city getaways and meet-ups can help you get through the rough periods of homesickness. Try visiting the following most popular attractions in Metro Vancouver; Bloedel Conservatory Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Flyover Canada Day trip to Whistler Grouse Mountain Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours Sea to Sky Gondola Science World Stay Busy with Enjoying the Present You are young and have moved to a new city, enjoy the best of it. Alongside your studies, make time out for yourself and things you have never done before. For Example, trying out traditional recipes or learning a new language can help you stay busy and avoid homesickness. Develop a Feeling of Home to Avoid Homesickness Although it’s important to stay in touch with your friends and family at home, but try to find a balance between catching up and focussing on your new life. Furthermore, if you spend hours on Skype or checking your Facebook feed looking at things you are missing, you will never fully settle in your new environment. Thus, focus on what you have right now, get out and explore so you can develop a feeling of home. Lastly, Limit your social media time to a few hours per week. Continue or Find a New Hobby is there something you really enjoyed doing in your home country? Then why stop now. Keep up with your hobby to stay busy and interested in things you do during your free time. Furthermore, when you are in a new city, why not try new activities. Cycling, hiking, boating and skiing are very popular among Vancouverites. Be Active Which city can be better than Vancouver for a healthy lifestyle! Stay fit and healthy in your new city. Join a fitness centre near you. Go for a daily walk or job in the parks, beaches or mountains nearby. This way, you can stay fresh physically and mentally, which will help you in your studies and avoid homesickness. Treat Yourself to Reduce Homesickness Lastly, you might be missing food, drinks and candies from your home country. For sure you will here and then. So why not treat yourself with those items occasionally. However, it might be expensive to buy imported goods in Vancouver. Yet, treating yourself once in a while can give you immense pleasure. Furthermore, asking your friends and family to bring you your favourite items when they travel would be a great idea. However, depending on them is not ideal. Thus, explore new things and enjoy new flavours when you are in Vancouver. Try out the following amazing markets to visit in Vancouver, BC Granville Island Public Market Lonsdale Quay Market The Fair at PNE (only in summer) Richmond Night Market (only in summer) Talk to a specialist. To conclude, homesickness is expected when you recently move out of home town. It’s Normal! However, if it has been months since you have moved to Canada and still feel isolated in your apartment with feelings of loneliness, you may be suffering from homesickness. This feeling can be very harmful and can affect your studies and growth. So it is best to get advice from others. Firstly, start with sharing it with friends. They may share their experience too and together you can find activities to overcome homesickness. However, if that doesn’t help, seek expert advice immediately. Here2Talk launched in April 2020 as a free mental health counselling and referral service providing year-round, 24/7 mental health support services for all B.C. post-secondary students, whether they live in Canada or abroad. Learn More about Here2Talk Canada-wide toll free, dial: 1-877-857-3397 Canada-wide direct, dial: 604-642-5212 If you are accessing from outside Canada. International calling charges may apply; dial: +1-604-642-5212 Thank you for reading our blog. We have more blogs for you to read, gain information and enjoy. Feedback and Suggestions for other blog topics are warmly welcome.
Live Stress-Free Student Life in Canada; Enjoy Amazing Student Discounts and Perks
Student life can be stressful in general, especially when you are an international student moved abroad, away from friends and family. Additionally, it can be hard to pay off your expenses with high college fees and accommodation costs. Thus, it can build stress and affect your mental and physical health. Moreover, to ease your stress level, we have listed below some great student discounts you can enjoy as a student in Canada. Crack Amazing Student Discounts in Canada To help you stay stress-free during your student life, we have gathered some amazing deals and perks you can enjoy in Canada. So whether you want to get a new laptop for education, or want to save on streaming channels, travel at a discount or even want deals on fashion, we have got you covered.Here are some amazing student discounts you can crack in CanadaThe estimated read time is 4-5 minutes Save With Student Discount Programs in Canada ISIC – International Student Identity Card is best to avail best student discounts globally as it have more than 150,000 students discounts from brands around the world. SPC – Student Price Card (SPC) gives you more than 500 unique and amazing discounts. *Most popular is Canada* UNiDAYS – Another very popular free membership program is UNiDAYS that gives you amazing discounts and deals. Studentbeans – Digital loyalty platform to avail discounts on products and services from international brands Save on Computers and Electronics Apple – Discounts on Mac, iPad and Accessories and Apple Music Samsung – Deals on Phones, Computers, TVs and More on rotational basis Microsoft – Wide variety of discounts on Microsoft Student Store HP – Great student discounts on hardware bundles, laptops, printers, PCs and more via “HPAcademy” Dell – 5% student discounts on Dell products and accessories Lenovo – Differet discounts on Laptops and PCs for students and teachers Staples – Back to school deals on various student essentials Save on Online Streaming Channels & Services Amazon Prime – Free 6 months, then after 50% off regular price Adobe – 60% off on Adobe creative cloud subscription Spotify – Free 1 month, then after $4.99/month Disney+ – Varies between 15-30 % Student Discounts on Fashion Addidas – 30% off regular priced, 15% off outlet stores Nike – 10% off Reebok – 30% off full priced, 15% off sale items New Balance – 15% off full priced, 5% off clearance items Old Navy – 10% off Roots – 15% off Bath & Body Works – 10% off Mac Cosmetics – 15% off SoftMoc – 10% off on footwear and accessories Travel and Transit; Student Discount Air Canada – Dicounted multi-trip pass for students, earn more travel points GO Transit – 22.5% off Via Rail – Discounted rates for youth pass Save More With Credit Cards for Students in Canada BMO Cashback – Best for Cashback Tangerine Moeny Back – Best for Cashback BMO Air Miles – Best for Air Miles TD Rewards – Best overall Signature RBC Rewads – Best overall Scotiaback SCENE – Best for free movies and discounts at cineplex theatres PC Financial Mastercard – Best for reward points at Real Canadian Superstore, Loblaws and Shoppers Drug Mart, Pharmaprix and Esso Triangle – Best for Canadian Tire, Sport Check, Gas+ and Husky Studnet Discount at Restaurants & Bars Aroma Espresso Bar – 15% off their purchase of $10 and above Audrey Moment – 10% off Bear Sushi – 10% off . N/A during Hungry Hour Blenz Coffee – Free upsize on drinks at participating Blenz Coffee shops in Canada. Buddha-Full – 10% off Bulk Barn -10% discount every Wednesday Burger King – 10% off on selected Burger Meal combos Church’s Chicken – 20% off regular price menu items Golden Gecko Coffee – 10% student discount on handmade drinks Kernels Popcorn – Free large upsize upgrade for the price of a medium popcorn. KFC -10% student discount on Big Box Meals Lindt Chocolate – 20% student discount on regular price ietms Marble Slab Creamery – 10% off Papa Johns Pizza – Upto 25% student discount Pizza Pizza – Special occasional deals Pizza Hut – 10% off regular price items at Pizza Hut Taco Bell – Free fries supreme upgrade on combo meals Zolas Restaurant – 20% off. N/A holidays Studnet Discounts on Must See Attractions Near You BC Sports Hall of Fame – $12.00 Beaty Biodiversity Museum – $12.00 Capilano Suspension Bridge Park – $46.95 Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden – $12.00 Museum of Anthropology at UBC – $12.40 Vancouver Aquarium – $34.90 Art Gallery Vancouver – $19.05 Vancouver Maritime Museum – $11.00 Good to Have Student Discounts NYTimes – 90% off on Digital access Wall Street Journal – US$1.00 for 15 weeks. There are many more student discounts available for students in Canada. Although, we have tried to gather the best of deals. Unfortunately, we must have missed a few great ones! Moreover, our list above must at least get you started saving more as a student in Canada.Lastly, we aim to keep our list of amazing student discounts in Canada updated regularly. However, if you think we have missed a great deal for students or have any other money-saving tips for others, please feel free to share your suggestions in the comments section below. Thank you for reading our blog. We have more blogs for you to read, gain information and enjoy. Feedback and Suggestions for other blog topics are warmly welcome.
Quit Smoking In Vancouver with supportive programs provided by B.C. Gov.
Deciding on Quitting Smoking is the Best Decision you can ever make for Yourself. The process to Quit Smoking will not be easy. However, it will be worth millions, and you will surely be happy later with the decision made today.Quitting smoking is a process and will not happen overnight. It will require commitment and support. Furthermore, the difficulties will come through early on. However, you will achieve the goals—supportive programs provided by the Government of British Columbia is available for your help. Recovery from nicotine addiction is doable, once and forever. This blog article will guide you on the importance of being nicotine-free for a healthy lifestyle, highlighting the programs available in B.C. to help you stop smoking. The estimated read time of this blog article is 7 & 9 minutes. Why Quit Smoking The majority well receives smoking as a slow poison. It may not show its effects on your health today, but it will indeed affect your overall physical strength in time. Apart from physical effects, the mental effects of smoking are neither vague.There are many reasons why you should consider quitting smoking at the earliest. A few of the reasons are; Increase self-confidence level and self-control Decrease risk of smoking-caused illness; heart and lung diseases, throat and oral cancer, and emphysema Improved sense of taste and smell Become a role model for friends and family More Savings When Should You Quit Smoking Quitting smoking is the best gift one can give to himself. You can choose the best time to treat yourself to this best gift of healthy life. The health benefits of quitting smoking start the first day you give up. You increase your oxygen intake and lower your blood pressure with this act. After one year of nicotine-free life, you decrease your chances of heart-related problems by half. With ten years of nicotine-free life, you reduce your chances of lungs related issues by half. So when should you give up on smoking? Well, it is never too late and never too early. So decide a date today and act upon your goals. Stay committed! Get Ready to Quit Plan your steps. List your goals. We have gathered a few steps for you to consider while planning your actions to achieve your goal of a smoke-free lifestyle; List your goals for motivation. Choose your day and time. (earlier the better – try to choose one in the next two weeks) Choose the methods you will follow to help you quit. (NRT, prescription medications or counselling) Ask your friends and family to help you stay committed to achieving your goal. Exercise and eat healthy to minimize nicotine cravings Go easy. If you give up on your goal and light a cigarette, don’t consider it a failure. Instead, think about what made you do it and how you can avoid it in future. Start Again. Quit Methods Quitting can be challenging. However, with the help of the following methods, the process can be less complex, which can help reduce nicotine cravings and symptoms of withdrawal; Use of NRT (Nicotine Replacement Therapies) – patch or gum Prescribed medication Counselling Support – via in-person, phone or text Programs available in B.C. to help quit smoking QuitNow QuitNow is a program offered to people who consume tobacco or e-cigarettes. You can use this service to quit or reduce your tobacco intake. Moreover, you can also use this service if you are in the process of planning to have a nicotine-free life. Trained quit coaches will help you achieve your goals. Key Information; Personalized Online Quit Plan Text QUITNOW to 654321 Call Toll-Free 1 877 455-2233 Live Chat B.C. Smoking Cessation Program The PharmaCare BC Smoking Cessation Program helps eligible B.C. residents who want to stop smoking or using other tobacco products. It covers the cost of one of two treatment options outlined below: Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) products (patch or gum) Prescription smoking cessation medications Fore more information, Click here Furthermore, your pharmacist, dentist, counsellor or another health care provider may also advise you on the best option or combination of options. Will Vaping Help? Electronic cigarettes, also known as vapes or e-cigarettes, are not technically considered tobacco products. However, they still do contain nicotine and other chemicals. In comparison, some people have found that switching to vaping has helped them quit smoking. Yet vaping is not harmless too. There is no safe tobacco product. The Effects of vaping can be as harmful as any other tobacco product. And it is addictive too. So once you decide upon quitting smoking, do not go for vaping. Instead, consider the other safe and proven quit-smoking methods like combining NRT with quit coaching. For more details on measures to quit smoking, please do not hesitate to ask your doctor during the Student Medical Exam, or get in touch with us today. We are here to help. Thank you for reading our blog. We have more blogs for you to read, gain information and enjoy. Feedback and Suggestions for other blog topics are warmly welcome.
Nutrition & Healthy Life – Why It Matters. Find a Nutritionist in Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby and other parts of B.C.
Nutrition is an essential aspect of a healthy lifestyle and the importance of getting it right cannot be overstated. Most of us do know what healthy eating and nutrition diet is all about; Less fried food Less sugar More vegetables More fruits However, when it comes to having good nutrition, too many of us don’t know the full details; The benefits of good nutrition How to go about achieving it. “The best six doctors anywhere and no one can deny it are; sunshine, water, rest, air, exercise and above all healthy diet.” – Wayne Fields In this article, we will cover the following topics for you to learn about why nutrition matters. how good nutrition boost your physical and mental health how to acieve good nutrition in your diet indicators of nutritious diet why and when to consider seeing a nutritionist choosing the right nutritionist The read time is estimated between 6 and 8 minutes. Good Nutrition Boost your Overall health Health is the first and most important wealth. To maintain a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle, you must follow a nutritious diet. In addition, you’ve probably heard a lot of people talk about how important it is to eat healthfully. Thus, it would not be wrong to say that “A nutritious and balanced diet is essential for excellent health and nourishment. It helps to guard against chronic illnesses such as heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and cancer”. The benefits of having a nutritious diet include; weight management protection from chronic diseases stronger immune system protection against onset of aging support mental well-being Achieve Good Nutrition in your Diet As each food group provides different nutrients and benefits. So eating a balanced diet that includes foods from all of the following four groups is essential. Thus, these are the different food groups that you should keep in mind; Fruits and Vegetables Protein Whole Grains Dairy Registered panel physicians at IME Clinic Inc. are here to help you with more information, get in touch. Adopt Healthy Eating Habits – Add Nutrition Apart from eating foods from the above-mentioned food groups, there are three other healthy eating habits to maintain in order to keep your nutrition plan on point. Eat Fresh Regulate your portion size Add healthy seasoning to your food How About Fat and Sugar Dietary fat (such as the kind you get from fish and olive oil) is essential for good health as they regulate cholesterol levels in your body while promoting healthy cell function. Monounsaturated, polyunsaturated and saturated fat all play a role in this aspect of good health. On the other hand, the additional fat you often find in fried food should be minimized as they are largely polyunsaturated fat derived from processed vegetable oils such as soybean and rapeseed. Due to their low threshold for oxidization, overconsumption of polyunsaturated fat can lead to inflammatory conditions and the formation of free radicals. Artificial trans fat is also a strict “no-no”. Furthermore, sugar should also be limited – while the natural sugars present in fruits and whole grains are healthy, the refined sort you get with cakes and snacks can affect your weight and lead to metabolic diseases if consumed in excess. Indicators of Nutritious Diet As maintaining a nutritious eating plan is simple enough; evaluating whether it’s nutritious enough can be straightforward as well. Just look out for five simple enough indicators of whether you are getting enough from your food. Body Composition Healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels Sleep and energy levels Healthy skin and hair Healthy digestive system Consider Seeing a Nutritionist Although the above five indicators of a nutritious diet may give you a decent idea of how to go about achieving your nutrition goals. Yet, getting the help of a certified nutritionist can help improve your odds of success while avoiding the common pitfalls. One should see a nutritionist for; Advice and meal plans Adaptation of plans Help to stick to the plans Moreover, apart from diet-related advice, certified nutritionists can also offer emotional support when you are struggling to maintain your diet. Choosing the Right Nutritionist If you’ve decided that seeing a nutritionist is a worthy investment, it’s important to consider the different types of nutritionists. Not all nutritionists are equally qualified, so do a background check before you engage one. Some nutritionists are also registered dietitians who can help you create a tailor-made eating plan. Moreover, nutritionists who are not registered dietitians can usually only give advice in specific areas, such as sports nutrition. We have listed down the following nutritionist in Lower Mainland, BC. for your consideration; Vancouver Nutritionist (Vancouver, BC) Yaletown Nutrition (Vancouver, BC) Adrienne Ngai, Registered Dietitian, Nutritionist, CDE, MSc- Healthy Eating and Weight Loss Coach (Vancouver, BC) Impulse Health and Wellness (Surrey, BC) The Nutrition Well (Burnaby, BC) WestCoast Nutrition (Langley, BC) BetterByDesign Nutrition Ltd. – Registered Dietitian (Coquitlam, BC) Veritas Wellness (New Westminster, BC) Furthermore, HealthLink BC’s registered dietitians offer telephone, email and web-based based food and nutrition services to support the information, education and counselling needs of B.C. residents and health professionals. For more details on Nutrition and Why It Matters, please don’t hesitate to ask your doctor during the Student Medical Exam, or get in touch with us today. We at IME Clinic Inc. are here to help. Thank you for reading our blog. We have more blogs for you to read, gain information and enjoy. Feedback and Suggestions for other blog topics are warmly welcome.
Mental Health Support in Vancouver and Other Parts of Lower Mainland, B.C.
Mental Health Is Important! Mental health is an important part of your physical healthcare and personal well-being. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, mental illnesses are characterized by changes in thinking, mood, or behaviour associated with significant distress and impaired functioning. Moreover, mental illness can take many forms. Examples: mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, or substance dependency. It is important to know that no matter how you are feeling, you are not alone. There is help out there. In this article, we will learn about mental health issues, the benefits of seeking help and mental wellness supporting societies in Lower Mainland B.C. The estimated read time is 6 – 8 minutes. Mental and Behaviour Health Learning Centre Firstly, mental health can refer to a wide range of conditions that affect how you think, feel, or interact with other people. In fact, the list of conditions that fall under the mental hygiene umbrella is extensive, and finding the information you need may be overwhelming. Furthermore, the Mental and Behaviour Health Learning Centre has mental health information in one place so that you can easily find what you are looking for. Hence, you can visit the website or alternatively call 811 to speak with a health services navigator, available 24/7. Ongoing Coronavirus Disease and Mental Wellness COVID-19 can make us feel confused, sad and anxious. Self-isolation may make us feel separate from the things and activities we use to help manage our feelings. For this reason, it is good to learn about resources and supports to help you take care of yourself and your family. Learn More It is Hard to Seek Help, We Understand According to government statistics, nearly half of all youth ages 8 to 15 with a mental illness receive no treatment. Although a lot of studies have been conducted to determine the reasons for this disparity. Yet, there is no single answer. Actually, some reasons have to do with the environment, economics, and other overarching factors. In some cases, the mental disorder itself may create conditions that prevent the individual from seeking help. The following were identified as particular issues that made it hard to reach out: Stigma and Embarrassment. Difficulty Recognizing Symptoms. Preference for Self-Reliance. Lack of Trust. Feelings of Hopelessness. Ask for Help – Tips Remember, there is nothing shameful about seeking help. Initially, you may feel vulnerable and unsure, but asking for help is essential. Good mental health treatment will set you on a path of recovery that enables you to enjoy your life truly. Hence, here are some basic tips to help you overcome your reluctance in seeking assistance: Ask for help before frustration and anger take over. Leave behind feelings of weakness, shame, and embarrassment. Talk to someone you trust. Be clear and direct when asking for help. Be as positive as you can. To learn more about mental care treatment and services, contact us Benefits of Getting Treatment for Mental Health Thankfully, identifying the benefits of treatment is easier than figuring out why it’s hard to ask for help. If you understand how much you have to gain, you will be more inclined to seek help. Depending on your specific situation, there will be particular advantages to getting treatment. But considering the overall benefits of mental health treatment is a great place to start: Improved quality of life. Improved relationships. Reduced chance for complications. Better performance at school or work. Reduced risk for medical issues. Encouragement and Support. Is It Covered by MSP? Mental health services like counselling or therapy may be covered by your BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) when you access the service through a hospital or mental health clinic. Find your local health authority to learn more about counselling services in your area. HealthLink BC’s Find Services tool and Locator app can also help you find services. Although you often need a doctor’s referral to access these types of programs. However, without a doctor’s referral, you need to access care through the private system, which is not funded by the government. Reach Out – Mental Health Support Societies The following are the organizations that provide treatment, support, education, and hope of recovery for people living with Mental Health Disorders. Reach out to them United Way British Columbia Mood Disorder Association of British Columbia Canadian Mental Health Association Stigma-Free Society Pathways Serious Mental Illness Society H. R. Mnetal Welness Centre Coast Mental Health Lastly, in case you are going through a mental disorder or require assistance for your mental wellness, Contact Us and we can provide you with complete care and guidance. Thank you for reading our blog, for more click here. Feedback and Suggestions are warmly welcome.
A Guide – How to Choose; Best Pharmacies in Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby and other parts of Lower Mainland B.C.
Choose the Best Pharmacy Near You There are a lot of Pharmacies in Lower Mainland available to choose from. However, it can be difficult to know which one will give you the best customer experience and the best rates. Thus, this blog will help you choose the best pharmacy in the Lower Mainland to save money on your prescription drugs. This article will only take roughly 5 to 7 minutes to read and will cover the following topics; Medical Coverage by Medical Service Plan (MSP) PharmaCare plan for extra coverage Key features of Costco Pharmacy Why Costco pharmacy is the best of all in market of pharmacies in Lower Mainland Medical service plan Firstly, MSP is public health insurance in B.C., available to all Canadian citizens and permanent residents of B.C. It covers the doctor’s service fees. Similarly, you can also benefit from additional coverage, with the PharmaCare program. It covers the prescription medication, medical supplies as well as other pharmacy services. Read More PharmaCare Firstly, British Columbia’s publicly funded program Pharmacare by MSP covers a wide range of prescription drugs for extra medical coverage. Moreover, you can choose the following, as per your eligible conditions; Fair PharmaCare Plan Coverage for eligible prescription drugs and designated medical supplies, based on patients’ net income. Thus, protection from catastrophic drug costs for all B.C. residents, regardless of income. Read Plan B Covers the full cost of eligible prescription drugs and designated medical supplies for permanent residents of licensed residential care facilities. Read Plan C Covers full eligible prescription costs for B.C. residents receiving benefits and income assistance through the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. Read Plan D Coverage of digestive enzymes for individuals who are registered with a provincial cystic fibrosis clinic. Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs, digestive system and other organs in the body. Read Plan F Full coverage of eligible prescription drugs and designated medical supplies for severely handicapped children. Read Plan G Coverage of certain psychiatric medications for B.C. residents of any age who demonstrate clinical and financial need. Read Plan P 100% coverage of eligible cost for medications used in palliative care, other medical supplies and equipment through the local health authority for B.C. residents who have reached the end stage of a life-threatening disease or illness, regardless of age. Read Plan W Funded by First Nations Health Authority, this plan covers costs of eligible prescriptions, pharmacy services and medical supplies including over-the-counter drugs, devices as well as health products. Read In addition, the maximum limit of reimbursement for a drug will be in accordance with the chosen PharmaCare plan. While in some other cases, it may be limited due to general limitations regardless of what PharmaCare plan has been chosen. Costco Pharmacies in the Lower Mainland With hundreds of pharmacies in the Lower Mainland providing healthcare services in the region, choosing the best one with great prices and customer support service can be a difficult task. Thus, we have compared the pricing of the leading pharmacies in the Lower Mainland. Finally, we have chosen Costco Pharmacy to be the best pharmacy in Canada. Also, to save more money on prescriptions, Costco Pharmacy is the best provider. In relation, the following are seven (7) key highlights of Costco Pharmacy; Costco pharmacy prices are Great Costco pharmacy’s prices on pet medications are worth a look You don’t have to be a Costco Member to fill a prescription Costco pharmacy’s auto-refill program is very convenient Avail additional savings through Costco Member Prescription Program Offers full-service travel immunization program (selected areas) Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) Accredited Finally, if you are out seeking the best pharmacy in the Lower Mainland to save money on your prescription drugs along with the above-mentioned highlights, Costco pharmacy is a great place to shop. Best of all, you don’t even have to be a Costco member to take advantage of the savings. Furthermore, if you need more information regarding Pharmacies in Lower Mainland, Contact Us or Read our other article about Pharmacare! Thank you for reading our blog. For more click here Also, feedback and suggestions for other blog topics are warmly welcome.