Top Influential Canadian Women Leaders in Healthcare

M A G A Z I N E The Role of Technology How Digital Health is Transforming Canadian Healthcare TOP INFLUENTIAL CANADIAN LEADERS IN Pharmaceutical Pricing Understanding Canada's Approach to Drug Access Shauna C E O F R A Y M E Innovating Approaches to Enhancing Mental Health Systems Cronin

He who has health has hope, and he who has hope has everything. , ,

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Healthcare Trailblazers in Canada anadian women leaders in healthcare are making significant C practice, research, and advocacy. These leaders are not only breaking barriers but are also dedicated to enhancing patient care and promoting health equity. contributions that are transforming the sector. Their influence is evident in various roles, including administration, clinical Their diverse backgrounds and experiences enrich the healthcare sector, allowing them to address the unique needs of various communities. Many are at the forefront of initiatives to improve access to care for marginalized populations, ensuring that health services are inclusive and equitable. By championing innovative practices and policies, these women are helping to create a more responsive healthcare system. Mentorship is another crucial aspect of their leadership. Many influential women in healthcare actively support and guide the next generation, encouraging young professionals to pursue careers in this vital field. By sharing their experiences and insights, they are paving the way for future leaders and fostering a culture of collaboration and support. The impact of these leaders is significant as Canada faces ongoing healthcare demands. Their ability to advocate for change while maintaining a strong focus on patient outcomes highlights their commitment to the profession. These women serve as role models, demonstrating that strong leadership can lead to meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery. , , Innovation in healthcare is not about fixing broken things, it's about creating something better. In recognizing the achievements of these influential Canadian women, we not only celebrate their contributions but also inspire others to pursue leadership roles in healthcare. Their work is crucial in shaping a healthier future for all Canadians, making it essential to highlight and support their ongoing efforts in this vital sector. - Elizabeth Holmes , , - Kevin Smith Managing Editor

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Shauna Cronin Innovating Approaches to Enhancing Mental Health Systems C O V E R S T O R Y Linxi Mytkolli Shaping the Future of Healthcare Through Patient Engagement CONTENTS P R O F I L E Change is Constant Ai and Accelerating Technology C X O

The Role of Technology How Digital Health is Transforming Canadian Healthcare A R T I C L E CONTENTS Pharmaceutical Pricing Understanding Canada's Approach to Drug Access A R T I C L E

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Cover S TO RY Shauna C E O F R A Y M E Innovating Approaches to Enhancing Mental Health Systems Designing solutions with end-users and from diverse perspectives leads to the creation of the best systems for both the present and the future. www.worldcaremagazine.com 07

In the of mental health, there is a continuous drive towards enhancing systems and practices to better serve individuals and communities. The mental health sector is characterized by its dedication to improving well-being through innovative solutions and a commitment to addressing systemic challenges. This industry thrives on the integration of diverse perspectives, which are crucial and valued, and evidence-based approaches to develop effective strategies that cater to both current and future needs. organizations and 350 lived experts, also known as "Groundbreakers." The organization specializes in helping its clients and partners develop all- encompassing mental health solutions in their respective workplaces and communities by triangulating research expertise, lived expertise and practice expertise. Through its efforts, Frayme continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of Canada's mental health care, a testament to Shauna's vision and commitment. Driving Impact and Innovation in Mental Health Systems Shauna Cronin, as the CEO, has emerged as a central figure in the mental health sector. Her unique approach, deeply rooted in the belief that the best outcomes are achieved when solutions are crafted with the end-users in mind and from a variety of viewpoints, sets her apart. Shauna's leadership is characterized by her efforts to scale and enhance existing systems, drawing on the collective strengths and passions of her team and stakeholders to drive meaningful change. Shauna's personal motivation stems from her belief that designing solutions with end-users and from diverse perspectives leads to the creation of the best systems for both the present and the future. She has always been someone who pursues opportunities to leverage what is being done well across the system, aiming to drive impact and quality. Recognizing that the mental health system across the country is filled with good intentions and extensive expertise, she was inspired and motivated to help scale and improve what is already happening. In her leadership role as CEO of Frayme, she works with a highly skilled technical team and stakeholders who are equally passionate about implementing the best Frayme, the organization she leads, stands as a testament to her vision and commitment. As a charitable non- profit, Frayme has made significant strides in advancing mental health initiatives in partnership with its network of over 500 partner www.worldcaremagazine.com 08

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empathy. This perspective has shaped her approach to partnership development and large-scale system change, and it also informs her person- centered approach to leadership and coaching. Vulnerable leadership can act as a catalyst for building trust and overcoming the challenges of the current system. Growth Through Empathy and Clarity in Mental Health Leadership Frayme has been a period of tremendous growth for her both personally and professionally, allowing her to break down arbitrary distinctions between those living with mental health challenges and the professional world. By engaging with her own personal journey, as well as empowering and amplifying the expertise of others with lived experience of mental health struggles through policy and practice redesign, she has witnessed the strength in experiential evidence. A major learning for her has been to lead with the concept that clarity is kindness. Sometimes, organizations have numerous ambitions and ways of working but lack the capacity, training, or resources. By being clear and upfront about how they can partner and engage with various experts, they manage expectations and demonstrate humility. ideas and bridging the gap between research and practice. Shauna views her role as one of both inspiring that passion in others and being inspired by it from others. sector execute impactful mental health initiatives in their work, organizations or communities. Frayme is constantly working to best serve the needs of an under resourced system. The impact of COVID and national political- economic fragility has made it critical to maintain and sustain impactful work that addresses many of the sector's gaps. Collective Strength and Human- Centered Leadership Shauna's leadership philosophy is always one of being better together. She applies a person-centered approach and delegated leadership both internally and in partnership development with stakeholders. The sector focuses on people, so it is essential to keep the humanity of the work centrally focused. Whether it consists of system transformation efforts or more tailored mental health solutions, the work can be challenging, often involving intersectional, complex problems. Therefore, leveraging the strengths of everyone working together is seen as the only way to tackle what needs to be done. It's also the foundation of Frayme's approach – when we come together and involve multiple intersectional perspectives and forms of expertise, the end result is always more effective and impact- driven. To support transparent and collaborative work, she has leaned into vulnerable leadership, modeling her own willingness to partner and share resources and information. Vulnerable leadership can act as a catalyst for building trust and overcoming the challenges of the current system. Empathy and Grief in System Change and Leadership The most significant influence on her approach to mental health and leadership was shared with her years ago as a way of thinking about system change and impactful solutions. The sentiment was that with every new innovation being implemented, whether across a system or in coaching an employee on a new approach to work, there is often a sense of loss. This loss might pertain to the old way of working, the time invested in learning skills that will no longer be needed, or a sense of pride in what had previously been built. This can be experienced as grief, and it is important to approach all types of change with this acknowledgment and Harmonizing Life and Work for Equitable Attention Time management is always a challenge for her. Recently, she learned about the concept of harmonizing instead of balancing, which resonated deeply with her. With a busy home life, a demanding work life, and numerous individual passions such as poetry and swimming, harmonizing her responsibilities has become essential. By aligning her mission with all facets of her life, she facilitates this harmonization. Her fundamental mission is to have a positive impact on those around her and to continue learning and growing. Guided by this Navigating Challenges with Vulnerable and Collaborative Leadership Frayme is a charitable non-profit that operates a suit of services to help organizations and clients both from within and outside of the mental health www.worldcaremagazine.com 10

mission, both personal and professional aspects can nurture and contribute to one another. On a practical level, harmonization acknowledges that some days require more attention to personal matters, while other days demand focus on professional responsibilities. It is not about equality but about providing equitable attention as needed. Building a Collaborative and Inclusive Future for Mental Health Cover For her, the future envisions a collaborative and thriving mental health system. There is remarkable work occurring across the country in advocacy, service, research, and policy. Her focus is on creating a consolidated national vision that aligns and scales learnings while applying this overarching knowledge to serve as a foundation for each mental health solution her organization develops. Facing complex national issues such as the climate crisis, economic and S TO RY www.worldcaremagazine.com 11

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network of lived experts, Groundbreakers, is now over 350 people strong, all advocating for better mental health solutions across Canada through Frayme. The organization continued to expand, successfully delivering on its strategic plan and establishing many impactful programs that have enhanced the mental health landscape while having successfully delivered over 43 distinct mental health solutions for clients. Building a network of stakeholders that are now all collaborating, resource sharing and working together serves as a testament to how needed and appreciated Frayme has been by the sector. In particular, Shauna recalls the inspiring words from a young Groundbreaker about their experience working alongside Frayme: Approaching all types of change with acknowledgment and empathy helps in addressing the sense of loss experienced during system transformations. housing instability, and the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, there is much work needed to achieve Truth and Reconciliation and ensure health systems are no longer colonizing and oppressive. Recognizing the value of diverse worldviews in mental health solution design and fostering intersectional partnerships is a crucial step toward creating a flourishing mental health system of the future. Frayme is committed to working effectively with experts across the country and leading with transparency and partnership at its core. embedding service users and their experiences in future research. Harnessing Feedback for Effective Leadership and Growth Feedback is considered the most important gift of information she can receive as a leader. Receiving feedback allows her to identify patterns over time and make real-time adjustments. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on how to approach and apply the feedback. For her, feedback is a source of curiosity, prompting further questions about its application in various circumstances or contexts. Feedback has influenced her approach by helping her focus on coaching people in relation to their work rather than doing the work herself. Through feedback, she feels she has become a better leader, learning to delegate leadership, power, and influence to others. "Frayme stands as a cornerstone in the mental health sector. As a driven and passionate young individual who wholeheartedly recognizes the boundless capabilities of our youth, Frayme has been the most important catalyst for me to amplify this belief.” Building Trust and Honesty Through Collaborative Research Building relationships is fundamentally about trust and honesty. One experience that exemplifies this sentiment occurred while Frayme was helping a group of researchers scale up and mobilize their research findings. There was a strong interest in working directly with youth and families throughout the research process, which was new for everyone involved and initially led to some tensions around vision. By acknowledging and being honest about the different perspectives and leveraging the trust that their shared goals provided, they navigated the process and achieved incredible outcomes. The youth involved felt empowered and that their voices mattered, while the researchers saw firsthand the impact of lived expertise on their work and subsequently became champions themselves of Transforming Challenges into Impactful Achievement The story of Frayme is regarded as her standout achievement and the source of her greatest pride, along with the team that helped build it. Frayme evolved from an idea with a very small group of people into a national charitable organization during the challenging years of COVID. They created something meaningful and impactful during remote and isolated times, becoming a beacon of hope for their partners and network. Their premiere www.worldcaremagazine.com 13

How Digital Health is Transforming Healthcare T pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, demonstrating its potential to transform patient interactions and improve health outcomes. he integration of digital health technologies into Canadian healthcare is redefining how services are delivered and experienced. As the demand for accessible and efficient healthcare increases, innovations in technology are playing a crucial role in addressing these needs. From telemedicine to electronic health records, various digital tools are improving patient care and streamlining processes for healthcare providers. Electronic Health Records (EHRs) Electronic health records have become a cornerstone of modern healthcare in Canada. These digital records allow for the efficient storage and sharing of patient information among healthcare providers. EHRs enhance the continuity of care, enabling physicians, nurses, and specialists to access comprehensive patient histories in real- time. Telemedicine Telemedicine has emerged as one of the most impactful advancements in Canadian healthcare. This technology allows patients to consult with healthcare professionals remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. This has been particularly beneficial for individuals living in rural and remote areas where access to healthcare facilities may be limited. The shift from paper records to EHRs has numerous advantages. It reduces the risk of errors associated with handwritten notes, enhances data security, and allows for easier tracking of patient outcomes. Furthermore, EHRs can support data analytics, which healthcare organizations can use to identify trends, measure performance, and improve overall service delivery. By utilizing video conferencing and secure messaging platforms, telemedicine enables timely consultations, follow-ups, and even mental health services. Patients can receive care from the comfort of their homes, which not only enhances convenience but also helps to alleviate transportation barriers. The COVID-19 Mobile Health Applications Mobile health applications, or mHealth, have become increasingly popular among Canadians. These www.worldcaremagazine.com 14

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these disparities, Canada can create a more equitable healthcare system that leverages digital health for everyone. applications provide patients with tools to monitor their health, manage chronic conditions, and communicate with healthcare providers. Many apps offer features such as medication reminders, symptom trackers, and educational resources, empowering individuals to take charge of their health. Remote Monitoring Remote patient monitoring technologies are revolutionizing how chronic conditions are managed in Canada. Devices that track vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose levels, can send data directly to healthcare providers. This continuous stream of information enables timely interventions and reduces the need for frequent office visits. Conclusion The role of technology in transforming Canadian healthcare cannot be overstated. From telemedicine and electronic health records to mobile applications and AI, digital health innovations are reshaping how care is delivered. While challenges remain, the potential for improved access, efficiency, and patient engagement is significant. The convenience of mobile health applications promotes engagement and encourages proactive health management. Patients can share their data with healthcare professionals, leading to more informed decisions regarding treatment and lifestyle changes. As more Canadians embrace these technologies, the potential for improved health outcomes increases. For patients with chronic diseases, such as diabetes or heart disease, remote monitoring offers peace of mind and supports better disease management. Healthcare providers can identify potential issues early, leading to proactive treatment and improved quality of life. The integration of these technologies can also reduce hospital readmissions, lowering healthcare costs overall. As Canada moves forward, a focus on equity, privacy, and continuous innovation will be essential to maximizing the benefits of digital health. By embracing these advancements, Canada can build a healthcare system that is more responsive to the needs of its population, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for all. Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics Artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics are also making significant contributions to Canadian healthcare. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to assist in diagnostics, treatment recommendations, and predictive analytics. For instance, AI tools can help radiologists interpret medical images more accurately, leading to quicker diagnoses and improved patient care. Digital Health Equity While digital health technologies offer immense benefits, it is essential to address issues of equity in access. Not all Canadians have the same level of access to technology or the internet, particularly in rural and Indigenous communities. To ensure that the benefits of digital health are realized by all, initiatives must focus on improving infrastructure, digital literacy, and access to devices. Data analytics provides healthcare organizations with insights into population health trends, allowing for targeted interventions and resource allocation. By understanding patient demographics and health behaviors, providers can develop programs that address specific community needs. This data-driven approach supports more effective healthcare delivery and enhances patient outcomes. Healthcare organizations and policymakers are increasingly aware of the need to bridge these gaps. Programs aimed at providing technology training, internet access, and affordable devices can help promote inclusivity. By addressing www.worldcaremagazine.com 17

, , A STARTS FROM - Robert Urich

Shaping the Future of Healthcare Through Patient Engagement , T he healthcare industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards prioritizing patient engagement. More than ever, healthcare systems are striving to be inclusive and responsive to the needs of those they serve. This evolution reflects a broader movement to address gaps in accessibility, representation, and inclusivity, ensuring that healthcare outcomes align with the lived experiences of patients. patient-oriented research, has been a leader in integrating patient perspectives into healthcare systems. By prioritizing equity and innovative solutions, DAC is driving systemic changes that empower patients and improve outcomes. “In advocating for better diabetes care, I found that reducing assumptions, honoring each person’s dignity, and fostering a collaborative spirit could transform outcomes and patient experiences,” Linxi reflects. One individual at the forefront of this movement is Linxi Mytkolli, Director of Patient Engagement at Diabetes Action Canada (DAC). Her journey into patient advocacy began with a life- changing health crisis in her mid-20s, leading to a diabetes diagnosis. This experience illuminated the disparities within the healthcare system and inspired her to advocate for patient- centered approaches. Linxi now leads groundbreaking initiatives that ensure patient voices are integral to healthcare research and policy. Her work embodies inclusivity, collaboration, and systemic change. As DAC’s Director of Patient Engagement, Linxi integrates her personal experiences with her professional expertise. Her role involves leading initiatives that turn patient narratives into actionable insights for healthcare innovation. From facilitating focus groups to advising policy, Linxi’s work centers on building systems that empower individuals and value their experiences. Transforming Healthcare through Patient Advocacy Linxi’s advocacy journey began in the ICU, grappling with the challenges of navigating a healthcare system as a patient. Initially feeling isolated, she found a sense of purpose and community through DAC. Starting as a patient partner, Linxi quickly became an advocate for including lived experiences in healthcare decision- making. DAC, a national network committed to improving diabetes care through www.worldcaremagazine.com 20

identifying as Indigenous. Fellows receive stipends and funding to attend conferences, removing financial barriers to participation. In 2024, Linxi moderated a historic panel featuring the inaugural cohort at the Diabetes Canada Conference. This was the first time a panel featured 100% lived or loved experience, drawing hundreds of attendees and sparking critical conversations about patient-driven solutions. In 2025, the fellowship will be presented at the International Diabetes Federation World Diabetes Congress, cementing its global influence. The DAC Hub: Building Connections for Better Care Community is an essential enabler of positive mental health and health outcomes—not just for patients but for researchers, healthcare providers, and advocates. Recognizing this, Linxi spearheaded the development of the DAC Hub, the world’s first built-by- community-for-community database of diabetes resources. The DAC Hub began as a repository of resources, organizations, and support networks for Canadians living with type 1 diabetes. Today, it has expanded to include all types of diabetes and serves as a global hub. The goal? To make it easier for people to connect with community—whether they are seeking peer support, navigating their disease, or looking for tools to better care for patients. The Research to Action Fellowship: A Groundbreaking Program ways that reflect their unique lived realities.” One of Linxi’s most impactful initiatives is the Research to Action Fellowship, a nine-month program she co-designed to bridge the gap between the diabetes community and research. This fellowship trains individuals with lived or loved experiences of diabetes to co-create knowledge and share research in ways that resonate with their communities. Fellows collaborate with organizations such as the National Indigenous Diabetes Association, Obesity Canada, and diaTribe to develop culturally relevant resources, including: “You don’t know what you don’t know,” Linxi explains. “The DAC Hub is a one-stop shop where people can find support groups, resources, and communities. It’s also a tool for providers to offer to their patients and for the online community to promote their services, blogs, and education.” • • Indigenous self-advocacy cards Comics on obesity and mental health Educational tools for Afro- Caribbean and South Asian communities • “The fellowship isn’t just about producing resources—it’s about transforming the role of patients in healthcare research and advocacy,” Linxi explains. “We’re equipping individuals to lead systemic change in In its inaugural year, the fellowship drew over 70 applications for eight spots, representing individuals aged 18 to 75. Over 50% of applicants were from equity-denied groups, with 30% Presented at the Diabetes Canada Conference 2024, the DAC Hub will be integrated into a clinical trial in www.worldcaremagazine.com 22

A Vision for Collaborative Patient Engagement Linxi envisions a future where patient engagement is infused with joy, sustainability, and mutual respect. This vision includes: Strengthened community relationships: “When you invest in relationships, the results follow.” Support for operational leaders: Recognizing the contributions of those with learned and laboured experience who drive engagement initiatives. Global collaboration: Leveraging tools like the DAC Hub to connect communities and improve outcomes worldwide. 2025. With a vision of global reach, Linxi envisions the DAC Hub becoming a tool in every provider’s repertoire and a platform that fosters community across continents. , patient community about whether advisory roles can drive meaningful change. Linxi believes they can. “Better health outcomes can be achieved through a variety of approaches,” she says. “Advisory roles ensure patient voices are integral to decision-making without undermining policy structures.” Addressing the Challenges of Meaningful Patient Engagement Despite progress, Linxi identifies significant challenges in the field: Linxi leverages her extensive network, including connections with youth, newcomers, and immigrant communities, to ensure diverse perspectives are represented. By fostering open dialogue and maintaining transparency in decision- making, she helps shape policies that meet the needs of all Canadians. Her work demonstrates that advisory influence is a powerful tool for systemic change. “We need to call each other in, not out,” Linxi emphasizes. “By fostering collaboration and trust, we can create a healthcare system that truly reflects the needs and strengths of everyone it serves.” Tokenization: “Organizations often meet engagement requirements without the infrastructure to do it meaningfully,” Linxi notes. Templates, tools, and training are essential, as are genuine collaborations with trusted entities like DAC. Scope Creep: Patient partners are frequently asked to take on professional responsibilities without adequate support or compensation. “While lived experience is invaluable, it cannot replace learned and laboured expertise,” Linxi asserts. Linxi’s work exemplifies the power of relationships, creativity, and community-driven approaches in transforming healthcare. From the DAC Hub to the Research to Action Fellowship, her initiatives are shaping a future where patient engagement drives systemic change, and everyone’s voice is valued. Guiding Principles for Meaningful Advocacy At DAC, significant time and effort have been invested in building relationships and establishing best practices for patient engagement. Collaborating with organizations like DAC can ensure engagement is conducted with integrity and respect. Addressing these issues requires systemic change, clear roles, fair compensation, and robust frameworks. For those aspiring to make an impact in patient advocacy, Linxi shares three key principles: Map your 4Ls: Understand the value you bring through your lived, loved, learned, and laboured experiences. Build connections: Engage with organizations and mentors aligned with your 4Ls. Be generous with your time, skills, and service. Listen deeply: “Find your place by understanding the values and dialects of those around you. True advocacy is rooted in empathy and reciprocity.” “These principles have guided my career,” Linxi shares. “Advocacy becomes meaningful when it’s reciprocal, driven by humility, and built on listening.” Shaping Healthcare through Advisory Influence Linxi’s influence extends beyond DAC, exemplified by her advisory role with Canada’s Drug Agency’s Patient and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC). Serving in this capacity raises questions within the www.worldcaremagazine.com 23

Diabetes Action Canada (DAC) Visit Diabetes Action Canada's o?cial website to learn more about our work in patient- oriented research, improving the health and wellness of people with diabetes, and initiatives led by patient advocates. DAC Hub The Global Community Resource Discover the DAC Hub, a groundbreaking resource created by and for the diabetes community. This one-stop platform connects individuals, healthcare providers, and researchers with support groups, educational resources, and tools to navigate diabetes. Designed to foster community and collaboration, the DAC Hub enables people worldwide to share their services, promote their blogs and resources, and ?nd the networks they need. Its integration into clinical trials and global healthcare e?orts highlights its impact as a vital tool in diabetes care. Research to Action Fellowship This page highlights the groundbreaking Research to Action Fellowship, a program designed to empower patient advocates to mobilize research and create knowledge products by and for the diabetes community. Patient Advocacy and Thought Leadership Podcasts Listen to insightful discussions about diabetes care, mental health, and patient engagement through these podcast episodes, where Linxi shares her expertise and experiences. Podcast 1: Patient Engagement Podcast Interview about Diabetes Action Canada Podcast 2: Supporting the Mental Health Needs of People with Type 1 Diabetes CADTH Patient and Community Advisory Committee Learn more about the Patient and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC) at CADTH, where Linxi is the youngest member. The PCAC represents the diabetes community and ensures patient voices are embedded in healthcare decisions. –G20 Youth Health Delegate Advocacy for Global Health Policy Read about Linxi's involvement as the Canadian Health Delegate for the G20 Youth Forum, where she advocated for youth health priorities, mental health equity, and digital health inclusion on a global stage. The link includes the global communique adopted by G20 leaders and a report on the community engagement and EDI strategy and consultations that Linxi led. Linxi’s Thought Leadership and Advocacy Visit Linxi's LinkedIn pro?le to explore her thought leadership, media appearances, and advocacy work in diabetes care, healthcare policy, and patient-centered research. www.worldcaremagazine.com 24

I S T H E H I G H E S T F O R M O F H E A L T H .

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UNDERSTANDING Canada's APPROACH TO DRUG ACCESS anada's healthcare system is C medications remains a topic of considerable discussion. The interplay between pharmaceutical pricing, government regulation, and healthcare access is central to understanding how Canadians receive the medications they need. This article explores Canada's approach to drug access, highlighting the mechanisms in place for pricing, regulation, and the challenges faced by patients and policymakers. a price application to the PMPRB. The Board compares the proposed price with those in other jurisdictions, including France, Germany, and the United States. This process aims to ensure that Canadian patients have access to affordable medications while encouraging innovation in drug development. renowned for its universal coverage, yet access to The Role of the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) Another key player in Canada's drug access framework is the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH). This organization assesses the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of new drugs and technologies. CADTH's evaluations are crucial for provincial health plans when deciding which drugs to include in their formularies. The Regulatory Framework In Canada, the regulation of pharmaceutical pricing involves multiple stakeholders, including the federal government, provincial health ministries, and private insurers. The primary agency responsible for reviewing and regulating drug prices is the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board (PMPRB). Established in 1987, the PMPRB ensures that prices for patented medicines are not excessive and that they are consistent with prices in other countries. When a new medication is recommended for reimbursement, CADTH provides a comprehensive report that includes evidence-based analyses. Provinces rely on this information to inform their decisions about which drugs to fund and at what price. This process helps to prioritize When a pharmaceutical company seeks to introduce a new drug, it must submit www.worldcaremagazine.com 29

funding for medications that provide significant health benefits relative to their costs. burden on patients without adequate coverage becomes increasingly significant. awareness of generic options among patients and healthcare providers. Conclusion Provincial Formularies and Public Drug Plans The Cost of Prescription Medications Canada's approach to drug access and pharmaceutical pricing reflects a careful balancing act among various stakeholders, including government regulators, healthcare providers, and pharmaceutical companies. While the system aims to provide affordable access to medications, disparities remain, and ongoing discussions about reform are essential. Canada's healthcare system is decentralized, meaning that each province and territory is responsible for its own healthcare services, including drug access. Each province maintains a formulary, which is a list of drugs covered by its public drug plan. The drugs included in these formularies vary by province, reflecting different healthcare priorities and budgets. The rising cost of prescription medications is a pressing concern in Canada. Many factors contribute to high drug prices, including research and development costs, marketing expenses, and the influence of global pricing strategies. While the PMPRB works to regulate prices, the system still allows for high costs, particularly for brand-name medications. The future of drug access in Canada will depend on continued collaboration among all stakeholders, transparency in pricing, and a commitment to equity in healthcare. By addressing these issues, Canada can work towards a system that ensures all citizens have access to the medications they need, regardless of their financial circumstances. In response to these challenges, there have been calls for reforms to make drug pricing more transparent and accessible. Advocacy groups argue for the need to implement a national pharmacare program, which would provide universal coverage for prescription medications. Such a program could reduce costs through bulk purchasing and ensure that all Canadians have access to necessary drugs, regardless of their financial situation. In general, provinces negotiate prices with pharmaceutical companies based on CADTH assessments and PMPRB guidelines. This negotiation process helps to keep drug costs manageable within provincial budgets. However, disparities can arise. Patients in one province may have access to a medication that is not covered in another, leading to inequities in drug access across the country. The Role of Private Insurance The Impact of Generic Drugs While Canada's public healthcare system covers many medications, it does not cover all drugs. Many Canadians rely on private insurance to supplement their drug costs. These plans vary widely in coverage, co- pays, and overall benefits. The role of private insurance can create a dual system where access to medications is determined not only by public funding but also by individual insurance plans. Generic medications play a crucial role in improving drug access and affordability in Canada. Once the patent on a brand-name drug expires, other companies can produce and sell generic versions, typically at a fraction of the original cost. The increased availability of generics can lead to substantial savings for both patients and the healthcare system. This situation raises questions about equity in access. Canadians with comprehensive private insurance may have no barriers to accessing medications, while those without coverage or with limited plans may struggle to afford necessary treatments. As drug costs continue to rise, the Provinces often encourage the use of generic drugs through formulary listings and prescribing practices. By promoting generics, healthcare systems can stretch their budgets further and provide access to a wider range of medications. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding the www.worldcaremagazine.com 30

AI AND ACCELERATING TECHNOLOGY A THREAT OR OPPORTUNITY? www.worldcaremagazine.com 32

B and exploit opportunities and threats. usinesses rise and fall by their management's ability to recognise change and identify distorted but believable based on the adage that seeing is believing. momentum leaders will have to willing to use AI to help them identify changes in companies in a similar space that have proven successful in implementing AI for visible benefit. Current and future leaders will have to have the ability to identify and manage the misrepresentations and be able to train their staff to gain skills necessary to be able to adapt the benefits and identify and avoid the deceptions. If they can do this, they can drive your business to success by guiding your clients and delivery value and integrity in your business. Many businesses fail due to being slow to recognise the threats in change and deal with them in a timely manner. More businesses stagnate because they fail to look for opportunities. You do not have to be fully responsible for creating change. Global internet searches via AI in countries with a similar culture and economy may reveal successes that can be implemented in your business and be a short cut to new services that keeps your business vital and growing. As a business leader you must ask the question- what is awareness my level? Do you have the discipline to make time to read material that is focused on change and new discoveries in IT, science, and technologies. Are you actively looking for things that may benefit your business and give you a market advantage? So, effective future leaders will have to be very well educated in IT and have a world perspective. They will have to be flexible in their ideas, management style and be excellent communicators. Staff recruitment methods will need to be enhanced with AI to ensure the people you recruit have high quality IT and creativity skills that will keep your business evolving. Dedicating additional time to recruitment will be essential. Staff need clear and precise instructions to enable them to understand and see the reason and benefit in what they are instructed to do. Good leaders aim to have staff committed to the work they do, and this is achieved by leadership example. Staff enjoy working for a leader who has a vision and ability to sell the dream to staff. He or she will have built their own trust and integrity to a level that staff want to follow and be part of change. Do you have the skills to apply identified modern technologies and ideas? It is most important to make these self -examinations so you are not limiting your businesses potential to your own abilities. If you have recruited the right team, you should be able to find the skill sets needed to enable effective delegation of adaption of innovative ideas and technologies into your business. Once a forward review identifies the need for specific staff it is wise for a business to immediately advertise the position-even if the need is not immediate. It is hard to find the right people who are available in a short time frame. Some business even offer a retainer to preferred staff to keep them available until the time to hire. In summary changes that are coming will be on a scale never seen before. This will create excellent opportunities to solve problems and implement innovative ideas because the means of achieving change are now enabled. The success of delegation is a test of your ability as a leader. Unsupervised delegation is unwise as it can lead to wasted time and effort if staff deviate from the original pathway due to lack of clear understating of what you said. The secret is to have a friendly, spaced and encouraging overview that leaves staff with a feeling of ownership and encouragement whilst ensuring your ideas are implemented. In addition to changes caused by Ai and Meta there is the effect of robotics in some workplaces. This change will require skilled management able to convince staff that robots are still machines that are limited to the task they were designed for. That robots can take the boring and repetitive parts of work away and create time and opportunity for creativity and more interesting work. Yes, there will be employment issues for staff who have limited abilities but once these issues are dealt with there are better days ahead. The effective adoption of changes that can benefit a company operation will excite staff and attract quality people who want to work in such an environment. To maintain this Do not be frightened of the changing future. Set about preparing for the changing business world by obtaining the necessary skills to recognise and exploit the benefits of change. Do this and you will enjoy success and lead the way for your employees to have secure employment that provides satisfaction and direct benefits to them. With the escalating rate of the evolution of AI and computer technology the world we live and work in is becoming a scary place. I feel for the current and future children who will grow up in a world where reality is so hard to identify. Where truth is distorted by fake videos and presentation of material. Where truth is Merv Saultry Managing Director Dental Innovations.com.au www.worldcaremagazine.com 33

MOVEMENT IS A MEDICINE FOR CREATING CHANGE IN A PERSON’S PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL, AND MENTAL STATES. , , - Carol Welch , ,

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Top Influential Canadian Women Leaders in Healthcare

Top Influential Canadian Women Leaders in Healthcare

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