Michener MAGAZINE A publication for Alumni & Friends • Summer 2010 IMPACT

The Internet Self-diagnosis Phenomenon New Physician Assistant Program at Michener • Student Impact in this issue 2 The changing face of health care

3 Michener on the front line From Guest Editor Dr. Peter Lin

4 2009 Alumni of Distinction – Cathy Babiak

5 Student Alumni profile – Abby Sirisegaram 6 Informed or obsessed? The Internet Self-diagnosis Phenomenon

upcoming continuing education courses 6 10 Physician Assistant program helps improve ’s Informed or obsessed? access to health care The Internet self-diagnosis 8IFUIFSZPVBSFMPPLJOHGPSQSPGFTTJPOBMEFWFMPQNFOUPSDBSFFSBEWBODFNFOU .JDIFOFSJTUIFPOMZ phenomenon 13 Celebrating student achievement at Michener, QMBDFZPVOFFEUPMPPLGPSDPOUJOVJOHFEVDBUJPO8FIBWFPWFSIFBMUIDBSFDPVSTFTUPDIPPTFGSPN inside and outside the classroom

16 Stronger, Smarter, Better: Campus Transformation at PRIMARY & CRITICAL CARE MEDICAL EDUCATION 222 St. Patrick Street t1FEJBUSJD&NFSHFODZ"TTFTTNFOU3FDPHOJUJPO t$MJOJDBM&EVDBUPS$FSUJöDBUF UPDATED! BOE4UBCJMJ[BUJPO_1&"34NEW! May 1, 2010 t*OUFSQSPGFTTJPOBM$PMMBCPSBUJPO$FSUJöDBUF UPDATED! 20 Radiological Technology: Preparing our students for t"$-41"-41SPWJEFSBOE3FDFSUJöDBUJPO t4MFFQ.FEJDJOF 5IFPSZPOMZXPSLTIPQ clinical education t#-4GPS)FBMUI$BSF1SPWJEFSBOE3FDFSUJöDBUJPO t4MFFQ.FEJDJOF 4DPSJOHPOMZXPSLTIPQ NEW! t*OTUSVDUPS$PVSTFT_1"-4/31"$-4 t$PNNVOJDBUJPOBOE$PNQBTTJPO4VQQPSUJOH1FPQMF 22 Building alliances for a bright future t1FEJBUSJD&NFSHFODZ"TTFTTNFOU XJUI5FSNJOBM*MMOFTTNEW! t4USBUFHJFTGPS#FIBWJPVS$IBOHFJO$ISPOJD*MMOFTT t&$( MJWFPSPOMJOFDPVSTFTUPNFFUZPVSOFFET 25 Michener celebrates Deloitte/IPAC Award win MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCES Free for Michener Status Appointees 22 26 Honorary Diploma recipient Dr. C. Joseph Kurian t$MJOJDBM-BCPSBUPSZ2VBMJUZ.BOBHFS(SBEVBUF Building alliances for $FSUJöDBUF1SPHSBN LEADERSHIP FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS a bright future t$MJOJDBM3FTFBSDI"TTPDJBUF(SBEVBUF 27 Alumni Happenings t'VOEBNFOUBMTPG-FBEFSTIJQ&òFDUJWFOFTT $FSUJöDBUF1SPHSBN t&UIJDBM-FBEFSTIJQJO)FBMUI$BSF0SHBOJ[BUJPOT t#BTJDBOE"EWBODFE7FOJQVODUVSF5FDIOJRVFT 28 Students making a difference a world away t)FBMUI$BSF-FBEFSTBOE0SHBOJ[BUJPOBM&òFDUJWFOFTT t*OGFDUJPO$POUSPMBOE&QJEFNJPMPHZ 29 Simulation possibilities take flight for students IMAGING Most courses available for delivery at your site t$POUSBTU*OKFDUJPO t*NBHJOH*OGPSNBUJDT(SBEVBUF$FSUJöDBUF1SPHSBN register today! DIABETES EDUCATION www.michener.ca/ce t%JBCFUFT&EVDBUPS(SBEVBUF$FSUJöDBUF1SPHSBN t%JBCFUFTJO$IJMESFO 28 t%JBCFUFTBOE1SFHOBODZ Students making a difference On the Cover: Chiropodist Megan Grantham (Chiropody, 2008) examines a patient while her a world away patient finds another diagnosis online.

Clarification: The two photographs used in the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) article in the Winter 2010 edition of Michener Magazine were of actors. In the interests of confidentiality, actual candidates are not photographed at any point during the MMI process. 4U1BUSJDL4USFFU 5PSPOUP 0/tttDF!NJDIFOFSDB Michener Magazine Summer 2010 1 # &45 & 9 1&3*&/ $&t#&45 & %6$"5*0/ Michener on the EDITORIAL TEAM Sarah Eyton, Editor Katie Schrank, Editor Wudasie Efrem, Alumni Editor

GUEST EDITOR Dr. Peter Lin front line ART DIRECTOR Vatche Atikian Guest Editor – Dr. Peter Lin

ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPHY Robert Brodey Tim Chipman Michener’s Impact on Alex DeOliveira s I lay on the emergency room stretcher, I never thought care system, using simulations where multiple disciplines interact Vertual Ltd. that I would be writing this editorial from the patient’s and learn together. At my moment of need, I realized why that ADVISORY BOARD perspective, but as luck would have it, I suffered a was unique. The students of The Michener Institute graduate Donald Bartlett health care A Sherry Dizon fracture dislocation of my ankle. This unfortunate incident with front line experience and would be able to meld into this Sheena Bhimji-Hewitt Jordan Holmes The Internet has created a new The V-Day group at Michener enabled me to witness some of the impact Michener and its seemingly chaotic health care system we so cherish in . Lissa Manganaro generation of patients who go online supports women affected by violence graduates are having on our health care system. Due to their educational experience at Michener, they were truly Lisa Mantifel Sean McCluskey to diagnose themselves before with the message that violence I watched as the emergency room was bustling. I saw prepared to work as an integrated member of the health care team. Kelly McPherson seeking medical attention. What is against women has to stop. They respiratory therapists, lab technologists, and radiological In this edition, there are features on new technologies, Amy Mok Ann Russell the impact of self-diagnosis on the support local charities, as well as technologists moving around in organized chaos and all for the new programs, and updates on the new initiatives going on at Abby Sirisegaram health care system? How does it affect those in need internationally. Our sole purpose of bringing the best care for us, the patients. My Michener this year. One piece in this issue that has personal Special thanks to our patients when they go to their health students’ stories have global reach. radiological technologist single handedly moved me into position interest for me is the piece on Dr. C. Joseph Kurian, whom I contributors: Andrew Berthiaume care provider thinking they have a By donating to the Scholarships so that he could get the pictures that the surgeons needed to have known for many years. Dr. Kurian is Michener’s Honorary Ann Gorwill Lissa Manganaro rare skin disease and are diagnosed and Bursaries fund, Michener’s alumni decide if the reduction was proper. It was at that moment that Diploma recipient for 2009 and he is much deserving of the Kathleen Sandusky with a simple allergic reaction? and friends give many students I was reminded of The Michener Institute tour that I had been honour. I also had the pleasure of being interviewed for the Katie Schrank Dana Yates How does it affect their health care the opportunity to focus on their on. How they talked about educating their students, who would feature article on self-diagnosis and found it a great experience. provider? And most of all, what does education without financial worry. soon be technologists, therapists and practitioners in our health This is an exciting issue and I hope that you enjoy reading it. Michener Magazine is produced for all that do to their relationship? Other partners like GE Healthcare friends, alumni, donors, and partners to foster our community, strengthen loyalty, That is just one of the topics and Vertual Ltd. donate equipment engender Michener pride and inspire Email sent on Feb. 18, 2010 investment. covered in this issue of Michener and software that play a part in the Magazine. We are looking at who and advanced learning of our students. Source name withheld by request STAY CONNECTED what impacts the health care industry. Finally, we introduce the members Has your name or address changed? Keep In response to the 3D Ultrasound equipment are using the vulnerability us up-to-date by calling 416.596.3101 More specifically, we’ll examine of our Capital Campaign Cabinet. The ext. 3406 or e-mail [email protected]. article in the Michener Magazine Winter of people in all their excitement of the role our inaugural class of Campaign for Michener will do much 2010 edition, my answer is short and conceiving a child to fatten their own The Michener Institute respects your physician assistants will have in more than transform our campus, it privacy and doesn’t divulge your mailing to the point. Yes, 3D ultrasounds are pocket books. The sole fact that the information to any other party. If you filling gaps in our current health will fundamentally transform health would like more information about exciting, but in the proper setting. That ultrasound profession is not legislated care system. Upon graduating, the education in Canada. Michener’s Privacy Policy contact Bill is, it should be used in the hospital, in Canada does not give individuals the Pitman, Privacy Officer at bpitman@ physician assistants will provide We hope you enjoy reading this michener.ca directed by professional health care right to abuse this. Why are they not Ontarians with better access to health edition of Michener Magazine on Impact. providers to help assess in a diagnosis entertaining people with 3D images care, particularly in rural areas. Comments and Letters to the Editors are to aid a patient. They are unnecessary of their liver, kidneys, or pelvises? Next, we focus on our students, welcome via [email protected]. as an entertainment source. The There should be no difference. The particularly the V-Day group. sonographers purchasing medical government should control this.

The Editorial Team

Michener Magazine Summer 2010 3 2009 Alumni of Student Alumni profile Distinction Cathy Babiak By Katie Schrank Abby SirisegaramBy Katie Schrank

bby Sirisegaram, a second year Sirisegaram is well-known around the cruise, and the great turnout made Radiation Therapy student, the campus, and it’s not hard to it even better,” she shared. Afirst learned about Michener understand why. She is on the Alumni Sirisegaram also spearheaded at an Open House she attended while Association Board and the Michener the planning for Michener’s first

Cathy Babiak receives her Alumni of Distinction award from 2008 recipient Michele Henry in high school. Years later, when she Magazine Advisory Board, has annual Talent Show, which received weighed her options around what participated in Student Council and an overwhelming response from ichener’s Alumni of Distinction for 2009 is of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, the international to do after finishing her Biology and the Medical Radiation Science Society, Michener’s talented student body. multiple graduate, Cathy Babiak. In 1976, Babiak certification for ultrasonographers and vascular technologists. Psychology degree from McMaster, is a member of the Diversity Steering Thanks to her planning efforts, the Mgraduated from the Radiography program and in Last year, she received Fellowship status with the American Sirisegaram knew Michener and Team, works part-time at the reception student lounge was packed and she 1980, she completed the Ultrasound program. Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM). This fellow Radiation Therapy were right for her. desk in the front lobby, and the list entertained the crowd by showcasing Babiak spent the first part of her career at the Hospital membership is a way to recognize individuals who have Sirisegaram was drawn to goes on. her talent as a great MC. for Sick Children (SickKids) in . After 15 years at contributed in a most distinguished fashion to the field of Radiation Therapy because she saw Another Student Council event SickKids, Babiak decided it was time for a change and she ultrasound. the opportunity to positively impact It is obvious that lead by Sirisegaram was the ‘What’s came back to Michener as a faculty member. Babiak enjoyed Babiak looks back on her time at Michener fondly because her patient’s therapy by applying her Your Type?’ blood typing event. her teaching opportunities while at SickKids and saw a natural of her great classmates, the pub nights, and her wonderful positive attitude to support them in Sirisegaram is a “Student Council partnered with the progression into becoming a full-time educator. instructors. “One of my favourite instructors was Denis Poulin troubling times. That attitude goes Toronto branch of Canadian Blood During her time as an educator, Babiak has continued to because of his obvious passion for teaching and his students,” beyond just being involved with “people person” Services to blood type people at add to her impressive academic credentials. She has obtained remembers Babiak. her patients, but carries through Michener and to encourage them to her Bachelor of Health Administration from Ryerson and her Babiak was nominated for the Alumni of Distinction her involvement in supporting the within five minutes donate blood on a regular basis,” she Masters of Education from the University of British Columbia. Award by her favourite professor, Denis Poulin. In his Michener community as well. says. “Over 100 people participated, Most recently, Babiak completed the Stepping Stones nominating letter, Poulin said, “Cathy has a well-deserved It is obvious that Sirisegaram is a of meeting her. which is great for a first time event.” Certificate through the Centre for Faculty Development at the reputation as a person that is always ready to assist “people person” within five minutes All three events will continue in ’s Faculty of Medicine. organizations to improve the profile of sonography around the of meeting her. You can’t get more While at Michener, Sirisegaram 2010. Throughout her career, Babiak has been extremely active world. She is well-known internationally as a sonographer and involved than she is, and that’s how has played a part in planning many With all that she has going on, within the ultrasound professional community. She has as an educator. She is always prepared to give her own time to she likes it. “I’m involved in so many student events. Her most significant Sirisegaram still manages to excel been President of the Ontario Society of Diagnostic Medical better her profession.” things because I really enjoy it,” she undertaking at Michener was the in her studies, and will be starting Sonographers and a board member for both the Society of Her quest to constantly educate herself and use her skills says. “I was engaged in different organization of the Orientation 2009 her clinical placement at The Ottawa Diagnostic Medical Sonography and the American Institute of to the benefit of the health care community and her profession aspects of student life during my Boat Cruise on behalf of Student Hospital this September. Best of luck Ultrasound in Medicine. are just some of the qualities that made her the perfect undergrad, and I knew I wanted Council, which was on the biggest to Abby as she moves on to the next In 1999, Babiak was the first Canadian Sonographer recipient for the 2009 Alumni of Distinction Award. to continue that when I came to boat to date and was sold out in record phase in her career! to hold the position of Chair of the American Registry Michener.” time. “I had an amazing time planning

4 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 5 Informed OR obsessed? The Internet self-diagnosis phenomenon By Dana Yates

t’s a scenario that no health cancerous tumour in the patient’s at St. Joseph’s Health Centre. There, professional wants for a patient. prostate gland. he plays a leadership role in the areas I A 50-something man visits the “In this case, the Internet turned out to of family medicine, obstetrics and doctor, complaining of problems with be good thing because it brought the patient continuing medical education. The co- urination. Online research has led the into my office for a formal diagnosis,” says host of Doctor in the House on the Slice patient to suspect that he has benign Toronto-based family physician Dr. David Network, Greenberg also served as the prostatic hyperplasia (an enlarged Greenberg. “On the other hand, if the chief medical practitioner for The Mom prostate) – a common and relatively patient had gone online to diagnose himself Show, where he discussed health issues harmless condition – and he expects his and then ignored his condition, the cancer affecting mothers and children. In his hunch will be confirmed by the doctor. might have killed him.” private practice, Greenberg has come After conducting a physical examination, Greenberg (or “Dr. Dave,” as he to see patients’ use of the Internet as a however, the doctor discovers a large, is known to his patients) is on staff reality of modern medicine.

6 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 7 necessary to bring in reams of research to the Canadian government (e.g. Health offended by a patient’s desire to know explain or justify the position. At the end Canada can be found at hc-sc.gc.ca). more about their health. At the same of the day, the doctor is going to know Greenberg goes one step further, time, patients need to be more objective more about the condition from every advising patients to stick to Canadian about the information they read online perspective.” websites whenever possible. and see a professional whenever needed,” On that note, he says, the “The British and Canadian health Grantham says. information on credible health websites care systems tend to be more judicious in Lin agrees. provides a good starting point for a the medical tests they recommend. And “In the end, we are all working on medical appointment. Patients, however, their websites reflect that perspective. In the same team to provide the best care should not expect that their newfound contrast, American websites will often and advice to the patient.” knowledge offers them admission into a list worst-case scenario illnesses first bona fide peer-to-peer discussion with a and urge patients to get tested for them. health professional. That’s because the health care system In light of this reality, what can in the United States is quite litigious. be done to preserve the patient- Websites don’t want to be sued for not And that isn’t necessarily a bad armed with possible diagnoses that have something that differs from what they doctor working relationship and still informing someone if he or she turns out thing, says Dr. Peter Lin, a general been gleaned from Google. have found online.” help patients satisfy their need for to have a serious illness.” practitioner who, for seven years, served “Sometimes they are right, Another problem that arises from information? The answer comes in the That said, BabyCentre.ca is as the medical director for the Health sometimes they are wrong,” Grantham Web-surfing patients: they may have form of education. Greenberg’s go-to website north of the and Wellness Centre of the University says. “What [patient use of the Internet] a negative impact on clinical research “In medical school, doctors learn border. The site, which is supported of Toronto at Scarborough. Today, shows is that people are on board trials. Lin points to the example of a how to discern useful information from by Johnson & Johnson, is overseen by Lin has two family practices and is a with their health and self-care. It also study involving patients with ALS or details that are less-than-useful,” Lin a Canadian medical advisory board health columnist on CBC Radio’s Metro demonstrates that patients expect more Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Through online explains. “So when it comes to searching that includes doctors, midwives, Morning. The latter role enables him to information. They aren’t content to just support networks, study participants for health information online, we need to breastfeeding specialists and dietitians. translate medical journal information for get a diagnosis and go on their way. were able to determine who had received teach patients how to separate the wheat In fact, one of those advisory members a lay audience. They want to know all about causes and a new drug treatment and who had been from the chaff.” is Greenberg’s colleague Suzanne Wong, “Once a patient has received a treatments, too.” prescribed a placebo. Upset with their On the Internet, he continues, every medical director of obstetrics at St. diagnosis, the Internet is great because In fact, Grantham continues, assigned category, many participants website can seem authoritative. But looks Joseph’s Health Centre. Knowing the it helps patients get up to speed, patients’ thirst for knowledge helped who had been given a sugar pill quit the are deceiving; uninformed opinions can online specialist provides peace of mind, learn terminology and stay informed prompt an overhaul of her clinic’s study. As a result of insufficient sample masquerade as proven facts. Patients Greenberg says. about their conditions. They can also website. Whereas before the site only size, the trial had to be abandoned. should be cautious when surfing the Web “When I recommend BabyCentre. find blogs and support groups run by offered contact information, it now The bottom line? Lin, Greenberg and must carefully rank health-related ca or a similar expert-driven website to people who have the same illness,” says provides details about proper foot care and Grantham all say patients must keep websites, from those impartially reporting my patients, I know that I won’t have to Lin, who is also director of primary and various foot-related conditions. an open mind and should remember on clinical research to sites that are based undo any of the information they read.” care initiatives at the Canadian Heart Where things can go awry, she says, that their caregivers are highly trained on speculation and personal bias. Ultimately, Grantham says patients Research Centre. is when patients read less-than-accurate medical professionals. That is, they know With regards to reputable websites, and health professionals are equally To be sure, though, doctors aren’t information online and then try to assume what they are doing and are on the same Lin suggests the Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic. responsible for sourcing credible health the only health professionals who are the role of the health professional. side as patients. com), Harvard Medical School (health. information and solving the problem of witnessing the persuasive power of the “Some patients want quick-fixes “All successful relationships are harvard.edu), and sites affiliated with self-diagnoses. Web among patients. Chiropodist Megan and it leads them to jump the gun. based on mutual respect and trust. hospitals (e.g. sunnybrook.ca) and “Medical professionals shouldn’t be Grantham, a 2008 Michener graduate, They will come in and say, ‘Here’s my The relationships between patients and works out of the Omni Foot Clinic and diagnosis. Now I want this treatment.’ health professionals are no different,” Orthotic Center in Burlington, Ontario. They see themselves as experts and Greenberg says. “A patient may bring an Do you have an opinion on the self-diagnosis phenomenon? As a health care professional Grantham’s patients regularly come will get frustrated when you say illness to a doctor’s attention, but it’s not have you encountered this type of situation? Let us know at [email protected]

8 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 9

Physician Assistant program helps improve Ontario’s access to health care By Katie Schrank

Physician Assistant students learn how to properly put on surgical gloves

s talk of Physician Assistants might not have access to a physician on NOSM, U of T and Michener program is a mix of residential blocks (PAs) becomes more frequent a regular basis and reduces their wait worked together to create a distinctive at Michener, distance education and Ain the media, many people are times to get to those physicians. curriculum that would prepare students clinical experience, with the majority left wondering what PAs are and what In order to integrate PAs into for their new career and set them apart of their time spent in clinical settings. kind of role they will play in the Ontario the Ontario health care system, the from students of other PA programs. Students will spend time in Northern health care system. provincial government went to the deans One of the major differences between and Southern Ontario during their The PA students Working under the direct supervision of the Ontario medical schools to discuss this program and other PA programs is clinical blocks. of a licensed physician, PAs will play a their interest in creating undergraduate that students are specifically educated “The PA students will make good will make good critical role in alleviating some the pressure PA programs. Dr. Catharine Whiteside, in the challenges they will face when use of Michener’s new simulation centre on the current health care system as they the Dean of the University of Toronto working in Northern Ontario, a largely during their residential blocks,” says “ will support doctors in a range of health Medical School, saw the creation of a PA under-serviced community where PAs Dr. Paul Gamble, President & CEO, use of Michener’s care settings to provide patient care. Most program as an opportunity to partner are needed. Michener. “We believe the facilities as notably, PAs will enable more people to with Michener. “This is a unique collaboration they are designed, the curriculum as new simulation obtain medical care, especially those in After talks began between Michener between three partners who all bring it has been built, and the faculty and rural areas where it is harder to get time and the University of Toronto (U of T), a different perspective and a range of the contributions they’re making will with a doctor. both parties realized that another expertise that will ensure the program make this a truly 21st century learning centre during their While the introduction of PAs may be component was needed to create a is multi-dimensional, consistent with experience for our students.” new in Ontario, it is not a new profession really robust PA program. The Northern social accountability, and has a focus on At Michener, there is a lot of residential blocks in Canada. PAs have been practicing in Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) being responsive to the rural, remote and excitement around this new program, Manitoba since 2002 and the Canadian was approached, and the Consortium under-serviced communities in Ontario,” but in the Ontario health care community military has supported and utilized PAs for PA Education was born. says Roger Strasser, Dean, NOSM. there is some disagreement around the for many years very successfully. South of “The collaborative nature of a PAs The PA program is structured so implementation of PAs. ” the border, the U.S. has had PAs working work, and the need to focus on under- that students will focus on academics in The opposition comes from the in their system since the 1960s. serviced care settings, made a partnership their first year and on clinical education Registered Nurses’ Association of In 2006, HealthForceOntario among The Michener Institute, the in their second year. The first year is a Ontario (RNAO) who believe that Nurse introduced the PA as part of a new Northern Ontario School of Medicine mix of residential blocks at Michener Practitioners (NPs) would be better interprofessional approach to medicine and the Faculty of Medicine at the and distance education courses that give utilized in the same type of position. – one that ensures that the right care University of Toronto an ideal alignment students an academic foundation upon NPs can work independently, whereas is provided to patients who otherwise of strengths,” says Dr. Whiteside. which to build. The second year of the PAs work as an extension of the services

10 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 11 offered by a physician and can only work makes becoming a PA a diverse career Celebrating student under the guide of a physician. The path. The application deadline for RNAO also takes issue with the amount the second class of PAs passed in May of education and work experience (two 2010, and if demand is anything like years of university and 1680 hours of that of the inaugural class, there may achievement at Michener, patient contact) required to be admitted again be four people applying for each to a PA program, saying that it is not available spot. The opportunity to learn enough, and far less than an NP. in a curriculum collaboratively created inside and outside the classroom Even with the resistance from by three well-respected institutions is By Kathleen Sandusky the RNAO, there are numerous more than enough to attract the best other organizations, like the Ontario and brightest students. Hospital Association and the Canadian The inaugural class of the PA hanks to the generosity of individuals, organizations and foundations who fund our scholarships Association of Physician Assistants, Consortium program began their studies and bursaries, each year Michener offers over $50,000 in student awards. Available to full- and part- who fully support the introduction of in January 2010 and will graduate in time students, the awards recognize student achievement, both inside and outside the classroom. this new profession into Ontario and December 2011. T Below are profiles of some recent award recipients whose bright futures in health care began at Michener. These students were the program under the PA Consortium. Additional information on the PAs recognized, along with over 40 of their peers, at the 2009 Student Awards Ceremony on November 18, 2009. The prospect of working in a can be found at PAConsortium.ca and myriad of settings, including acute care at healthforceontario.ca by searching facilities and primary care organizations, Physician Assistants. Laura Wahab, Ultrasound Dr. Norah Michener Scholarship

The daughter of a nurse, Laura contact sonographers have with patients Wahab always planned a future in at important milestones in their lives. health care. “I love working with “With pregnancies, I enjoy showing people in a meaningful way, helping the parents the baby, sharing their them through a difficult time in their excitement at seeing that little jumping lives,” says Wahab. After completing bean moving around inside. And then an undergraduate degree, she decided with diagnosis, you’re focused on to take a break from academics, saving getting a good history of the patient, money while working as a surgical putting it all together and looking as assistant in a private clinic, later hard as you can to find anything that’s travelling to Bolivia as a volunteer out of place. Either way, you’re right with a pregnancy crisis centre. During there with the patients, helping them.” these years Wahab debated a number Wahab was thrilled to get the of future career choices including news about the Dr. Norah Michener On Wednesday, January 6, 2010, including Sarita Verma (Deputy Dean, into the PA profession. As a symbol of the physiotherapy and nursing. She chose Scholarship. “It’s very nice to have that Michener, the University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, UofT), Roger beginning of their journey, the students ultrasound. extra support for tuition, but what is (UofT), and the Northern Ontario School Strasser (Dean, NOSM), and Dr. Paul received their name tags and recited the “Ultrasound is a really rewarding, probably even more important is the of Medicine (NOSM) came together to Gamble (President & CEO, Michener). Physician Assistant Code of Ethics for hands-on field,” explains Wahab, encouragement you get. It’s a way of welcome the inaugural class of Physician During the ceremony the students the crowd. now completing her placement at saying, ‘We’re there with you, keep Assistants (PAs) to our joint program. heard from all three academic leaders The event was covered by CTV Credit Valley Hospital, and about to going.’ I’m very thankful to the family In attendance was the inaugural who recalled how the PA Consortium News in Toronto and Sudbury. begin vascular training at St. Michael’s of Dr. Norah Michener for providing class of PAs, journalists, senior leaders came to be and congratulated the class Hospital. She treasures the direct this support.” and supporters from all three schools for being adventurous enough to jump

12 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 13 Crystal Ho, Radiation Therapy Matthew Chang, Podiatric Medicine Dorothy A. Hubbs & Family Scholarship Entrance Scholarship

“My parents taught me that it’s patients over a course of treatment. Matthew Chang credits many Biomedical Engineering at the University important to give back to the community, She acknowledges that the work individuals as his inspiration in of Toronto. “There was this one boy, who and to the school at which you’re can be stressful, particularly when choosing Podiatric Medicine as his progressed from crawling to walking studying,” says Radiation Therapy she’s treating children who are ill, or career, including his late grandmother. which was really fun to see,” he recalls. graduate Crystal Ho, who in addition someone facing a difficult prognosis. Growing up in a multigenerational “Watching someone grow up and take his to achieving strong academic results at She’s thankful to her instructors at household, Chang witnessed his first steps—I realized that must be how Michener, also sat on Student Council Michener for helping to prepare her for grandmother’s struggle with mobility parents feel. It was really exciting.” for her full three years of study, as well as this aspect of her work. every day. “My grandma had a bad Chang’s first glimpse of participating on the Health and Wellness “I’ve learned that it helps to talk with fall and although she had a hip came as a patient, receiving treatment Committee and as a student representative colleagues, because they’re often going replacement, she was mostly chair for flat feet. Although he has many on the newly-formed Medical Radiation through the same thing,” she says. “It’s bound afterwards,” explains Chang. “I complications associated with his Sciences Society. “I gained a lot out of also important to take time for myself, to tried my best to assist her while she was condition, he stays active, participating the experiences, such as learning how to de-stress by going for runs and staying in on her feet.” Sadly, his grandmother in Michener intramural sports including balance responsibilities, and it broadened shape with lots of physical activities. My passed away a few years ago. “It’s too basketball and volleyball. He hopes to my perspective on everything that’s going instructors at Michener taught me to keep late to help my grandmother now, but open his own podiatric clinic one day, on around me.” my focus diversified, to look at the big I know that there are a lot of people out helping people of all ages. “We tend to Today, practicing radiation therapy picture and not get overwhelmed. It’s just there who I can help in the future.” take walking for granted,” says Chang. at Hamilton’s Juravinski Cancer one of many ways that they prepared me Also inspiring to Chang are the “We do it every day and we don’t think Centre, Ho enjoys getting to know her well for my work.” children of Bloorview Kids Rehab, where about it, until something hurts. It’s when he completed a volunteer placement something goes wrong that you realize Danielle Nelson, Medical Laboratory Science while pursuing his Master’s degree in how important your feet actually are.” Life Labs Medical Laboratory Science Scholarship & President’s Scholarship Michener is committed to increasing the financial aid and awards available to its students. We are pleased to Danielle Nelson discovered her to Dr. Karim Bandali, Associate VP announce that the following new scholarships and endowments were recently established and thank the donors for their passion for governance while at Michener, Business Development, with a focus on generosity. Anyone interested in making a gift to our general scholarship fund or creating an award may contact us at with roles on Student Council and the the use of digital slide technology as a (416) 596-3101, ext. 3406 or [email protected]. Board of Governors. “It was all new to me, simulation tool in medical laboratory The Alpha Charitable Foundation Scholarship and radiosurgery, as well as workflow enhancing software and I had a lot of questions at first,” says science education. “It was exciting to be This endowed award was established in 2009 by the systems. A new strategic alliance between Michener and Nelson. “The staff and faculty, including part of Dr. Bandali’s new research,” says foundation of Dr. C. Joseph Kurian, the 2009 recipient of Elekta will result in an investment of $15 million worth Dr. Paul Gamble, President & CEO, were Nelson, who was recently hired at Mount Michener’s Honorary Diploma. Beginning in 2010, the Alpha of technology towards Michener’s academic teaching really generous with their time. They Sinai Hospital, where she completed her Charitable Foundation Scholarship will grant two awards environment. Beginning in 2010, this $2000 scholarship encouraged me to ask questions and be clinical placement. of $1000 annually. The recipients will have demonstrated will be awarded annually to a Radiation Therapy student actively engaged in decision-making.” Nelson is appreciative of the community volunteerism, a commitment to continuing that who is proficient in French, among other criteria. Nelson worked with the Student Council scholarships available at Michener. “I involvement, and financial need, among other criteria. Dr. Clarence Redekop Memorial Scholarship to launch a food drive at Michener, think they add value to the education. The Elekta Radiation Therapy Scholarship The Dr. Clarence Redekop Memorial Scholarship was generating approximately 1,100 food Scholarships are not the reason we work This award was established in late 2009 by Elekta, a established by friends of Dr. Redekop, to recognize his items for the Daily Bread Food Bank. so hard, and even though the money major strategic partner of Michener. Elekta is a human commitment to Michener and to academic excellence. In “It was an amazingly empowering really helps, that’s not the point either,” care company pioneering significant innovations and December 2009, Mrs. Redekop made a significant gift to experience, knowing that we could she says. “It’s really nice to have the clinical solutions for treating cancer and brain disorders. Michener to endow the scholarship and ensure it could be achieve that,” she says. recognition and the added opportunities The company develops sophisticated, state-of-the-art tools awarded in perpetuity. In her final year, Nelson secured that scholarships make possible. I’m and treatment planning systems for radiation therapy a research opportunity as lab assistant very grateful.”

14 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 15 Paul Bertin Stronger, Smarter, Better: Paul Bertin is the President and CEO of No Limit operations and field management of companies such Technologies and the Chair of Michener’s Board of as ComputerLand and General DataComm Ltd. Governors. In a thirty year career, he has developed He volunteers with several organizations Campus Transformation at 222 St. Patrick Street and implemented corporate visions to facilitate rapid and currently holds advisory and/or director Compiled by Ann Gorwill and profitable growth as CEO of Genticity Inc., as positions with the Sunnybrook Foundation Board he Campaign For Michener: Stronger, Smarter, Better has launched with the goal of raising $20 million in support of Michener’s President and CEO of Burntsand Inc., as President of Governors, - Research and Campus Transformation project. To achieve this organizational fundraising milestone, we have assembled an impressive of Sprint Canada’s Business Services Group, and as Innovation, and Plexxus Inc. Bertin holds a Bachelor collection of volunteers to form our Campaign Cabinet. These individuals come from a range of industries and professions, T President and CEO of Integrated Network Services of Arts from York University and a Bachelor of with extensive experience and a shared interest in health care, education and technology. Together we will raise the funds to build Inc. He has also been responsible for marketing, Education from the University of Toronto. Canada’s most innovative health education campus. We proudly acknowledge the following members of Michener’s Campaign Cabinet and thank them for their commitment to help us build the campus of the future.

Guillaume Hervé

Dr. Diana Schatz (Honorary Chair) Guillaume Hervé is President of CAE Healthcare, Senior Director Engineering, Vice President Aviation Dr. Diana Schatz was the founder of The Michener Medical Association committees, participating which provides simulation-based solutions to health Training, Vice President Technical Services, and Vice Institute and its first CEO from 1958 until 1994. in the Canadian Medical Association Conjoint care professionals worldwide. CAE is a Michener President, New Products and Services Solutions. In She has played a leadership role in many health care Accreditation process, and chairing the Provincial strategic partner and the newly opened CAE/ 2007, he launched CAE’s health care initiative and initiatives throughout her impressive career. These Advisory Laboratory Committee. In 2003, Dr. Schatz Michener Centre for the Advancement of Simulation was promoted to President, CAE Healthcare. positions include serving on numerous Ontario was awarded Michener’s Honorary Diploma. and Education is named in recognition of its leading Hervé holds a Bachelor of Engineering from the support of The Campaign for Michener. Royal Military College of Canada, has a post-graduate Hervé served as an officer in the Canadian Air degree in Equipment Acquisition and Aerospace Paul Duffy (Acting Chair) Force from 1983-1995 prior to joining CAE. He has Systems from the Air Force, and a Master of Science held many key leadership roles within CAE including in Business from the State University of New York. The Acting Chair of Michener’s Campaign Cabinet, and numerous mid-size corporations, governments Paul Duffy is also a member of Michener’s Board and not-for-profit organizations. of Governors. He was the co-founder, President A recognized expert in the field of and Chief Software Architect of Corporate commercializing knowledge, Duffy frequently George N. Hood Communications Interactive Inc., which provides speaks at corporate events and conferences in internet and wireless-based, custom product addition to sitting on a number of public and private George Hood is President of ECTA Ltd., which Associate Vice-Principal Research from 1995-1998 knowledge and learning solutions for organizations. boards. He has a Bachelor of Science in Applied provides organizational transition services to the and Director of the Centre for Resource Studies Established in 1992 and successfully sold in 2007, Computer Science from . private and public sectors. Currently, he is the from 1994-1995. Before joining Queen’s, Hood CCI’s clients include many Fortune 500 companies Senior Advisor to the President, Department of spent more than a decade with the Government of Advancement of . He is also Saskatchewan. active in the management of INI Power Systems He is an active volunteer in Kingston and Blair Baxter Inc., Scholars First Ltd., and assists two venture Gananoque, serving on the Kingston FebFest Vice-Chair of Michener’s Board of Governors, Chief Financial Officer at Burntsand Inc., JumpTV capital funds. Organizing Committee and on a number of private Blair Baxter is an experienced financial executive. Inc. and Versa Systems Inc. Hood was Vice-Principal Advancement at company boards. Hood is a graduate of Queen’s Over his twenty year career, Baxter has held senior He has been active in a number of volunteer Queen’s University from 1998 to 2006, raising a total University, BA (Hon.), MPA and the University of executive positions in a number of companies in organizations, including the Carleton University of $400 million during his tenure. He also served as Western Ontario, MA. the information technology, media and biotech High School Business Competition, the Centretown sectors including President of Choreo Systems Emergency Food Centre, and the Royal York Baseball Inc, a software reseller, Vice President of Finance League. Baxter holds a Bachelor of Commerce from at Iogen Corporation, a biotech company, and as Carleton University.

16 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 17 Neena Kanwar William M. Tatham

Neena Kanwar is founder, President and CEO of KMH the 2009 New Pioneer Award In Entrepreneurship. William Tatham is founder, chairman and CEO of Advisory Board of the Joseph L. Rotman School Cardiology and Diagnostic Centres. Established in Currently, she is a board member of ECHO and the NexJ Systems Inc., a leading provider of customer- of Management, the Board of the Canadian 1989, KMH is North America’s largest provider of Toronto East General Hospital Foundation, and centered enterprise solutions for the financial Association for People-Centred Health, and, the nuclear cardiology services. In 1990, she formed chairs the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario’s services, insurance and health care industries. Prior Board of Stewards for Open Health Tools. He is the the Independent Diagnostic Clinics Association Leadership Council. to establishing NexJ in 2003, he was the founder, Chair of the Technology, Innovation & Equipment and served as President of the Independent Health In 2006, she established The Vijay Jeet and chairman and CEO of Janna Systems. Project, Embracing Health Campaign at North York Facility owners until 2008. Neena Kanwar Ambulatory Care Centre at the Tatham is the recipient of the 2001 Ernst General Hospital and is also the Honorary Co-Chair, Kanwar and her husband Vijay have received Credit Valley Hospital and recently the KMH Family & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Building the Vision Campaign with the Woodstock numerous awards for health care innovation, Assistance Services Foundation. A graduate of the Software and Information Systems, the 2006 NAO General Hospital. The William M. Tatham Centre including the 2006 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of Nuclear Medicine program at The Michener Institute, Distinguished Angel Award by the National Angel for Co-operative Education & Career Services at the Year Award In Health Services for Ontario and Kanwar was named the 2004 Alumni of Distinction. Organization for Angel Investors, and was inducted UW is named in recognition of his support. into the National Commission for Co-operative Tatham is a graduate from the University of Education Co-op Hall of Fame in 2005-06. Waterloo, with a Bachelor of Applied Science in He serves on the Board of Governors at Systems Design Engineering and options in Socio- Dr. C. Joseph Kurian the , the Entrepreneurial economic Systems and Management Science.

Dr. Kurian is the President of Alpha Laboratories Inc. Group, and an advocate for Responsible Healthcare (1971) and Alpha Global IT (2000). Both companies for Ontarians. Dr. Amitai Ziv, MD, MHA were founded with his wife Kuttimol. Alpha provides In 1993, he established the Alpha Charitable leading edge clinical solutions and is a leader in the Foundation with the dual goals of building a hospital Dr. Amitai Ziv is the Deputy Director of the Sheba Dr. Ziv was a veteran combat pilot and instructor provision of medical technology. for the marginalized in India and a centre for “street Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, Israel responsible in the Israeli Air-Force. He graduated medical school Dr. Kurian is the founding patron of the Canadian kids” in Toronto. Dr. Kurian received his PhD in for risk management, quality assurance and medical and trained as a pediatrician in Israel (Hebrew Association of Physicians of Indian Heritage, the Chemistry from the Indian Institute of Technology education. He is also founder and director of MSR - University- Hadassah Medical Center) with sub- first President of the Toronto Chapter of The Indian and postdoctoral fellowships from the University of the Israel Center for Medical Simulation. specialties in adolescent medicine (University of Entrepreneurs, founder of the Toronto Eclectic Society Toronto and University of Pennsylvania. In 2009, Dr. Ziv is a clinical senior lecturer at the Pennsylvania, USA) and in medical management and the Policy Initiative and Election Readiness he was awarded Michener’s Honorary Diploma. Department of Medical Education of the Tel Aviv (Sheba Medical Center). He also holds a Masters degree University Medical School. He also holds an (Tel-Aviv University) in Health Administration. Adjunct Associate Professor position at Mayo Clinic Dr. Ziv is the recipient of the 2007 Charles school of Medicine (Medical Education) and at Case Bronfman Prize and the 2007 Michener Honorary Susan A. O’Dowd Western Reserve University (Pediatrics). Diploma.

Susan O’Dowd is Senior Vice-President, Human was Vice President, Human Resources at Hoffmann- Resources of LifeLabs Medical Laboratory Services, La Roche from 2000-2008. Here she led successful The campaign for michener which has been providing laboratory testing services employee engagement strategies, resulting in their in Canada for nearly 50 years. achieving “Top 50 Employer to Work for in Canada” Stronger. Smarter. Better. O’Dowd possesses over twenty years of designation for five years out of seven, plus the top experience in the human resources field, acquired pharmaceutical company ranking within that group. www.michener.ca during her tenure at a broad range of businesses in O’Dowd holds an Honors Bachelor of Arts from the transportation, retail, consumer package goods, the University of Toronto, her C.H.R.P. designation, financial services, pharmaceutical and medical and a certificate in Advanced Organization Design diagnostic industries. Prior to joining LifeLabs, she from the University of Southern California.

18 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 Michener Magazine Spring 2010 17 Program in profile: Radiological Technology Preparing our students for clinical education

adiological technology is in their clinical internship. In the procedure according to the requisition. natural step for the students in their enables technologists to provide high- placements,” says Professor Crowley. an imaging modality using 38 weeks of clinical education, the Some of these simulated procedures journey to practicing in the clinical resolution 2 and 3-Dimensional images The Radiological Technology RX-radiation to provide medical students are under direct supervision will also come with challenging environment. “Many students have of the human body. program is awaiting delivery of two images to help radiologists and other when working with patients. patient scenarios that a student may said that they can’t imagine going The GE Healthcare-Michener full-size articulated anthropomorphic physician specialists with patient Students are required to demonstrate encounter in real life such as a patient into clinical education without having Advanced CT Imaging Centre of radiography phantoms. These diagnoses and treatment. Radiological proficiency in a wide variety of clinical that is upset or has special needs. the experience of a clinical simulation Excellence on the 11th floor contains phantoms are manufactured to technologists work with sophisticated competencies in order to successfully Sue Crowley, Radiological course,” he says. a four-slice CT scanner and a simulate the tissue densities of the and expensive medical imaging complete the program. Technology Professor at Michener, The practice of Radiological computer lab featuring the latest in anatomical structures in the human equipment to provide their patients A new addition to the curriculum believes working through real-world Technology requires operation of 3-D image reconstruction technology body. These phantoms, like the with optimum care by producing is the Clinical Simulation Experience scenarios enables students to improve a wide variety of image acquisition and an electronic image library (see Computerized Axial Tomography (CT) diagnostic quality images using the course, which requires students their communication and problem X-Ray equipment. One of the biggest related story on page 22). The GE phantom already in use, will serve as minimum amount of radiation. to integrate their radiographic solving skills, which should ease their challenges facing this program is Healthcare-Michener Advanced CT stand-in patients. That is, phantoms can The Michener Institute for Applied knowledge, and imaging, transition to real clinical settings. “We keeping laboratory resources current so Imaging Centre is used by all Medical be positioned and scanned / X-rayed Health Sciences/University of Toronto, communication and patient care skills are hoping that students will be better that students can acquire the necessary Radiation Sciences students (those in by the students. As students review Faculty of Medicine Joint Diploma/ to demonstrate readiness for clinical prepared to hit the ground running, knowledge and skills in preparation for Nuclear Medicine, Radiation Therapy and critique the resultant images they Degree in Medical Radiation Sciences education. This course includes a by minimizing their transition into placements at clinical sites. and Radiological Technology). The learn to improve their positioning and program is comprised of academic, series of comprehensive imaging the clinical setting,” says Professor The resources currently in place in Centre provides students with imaging technique. This simulated laboratory (skills-based), clinical and patient care scenarios. After Crowley. “Students will be expected to the labs at Michener include Computed an excellent foundation in CT environment allows students to simulation and clinical education practicing the required procedures participate and contribute right from Radiography, Digital Radiography, a scanning, imaging and diagnostic practice safely and to make mistakes courses. The academic courses on each other, students are required the start rather than taking weeks to Radiology Information System and a capabilities, prior to the start of with no risk of harm to a real patient. provide the basis for practice, while to apply their knowledge and skills get oriented to workflow and process.” Picture Archiving and Communication their clinical education. Feedback The Radiological Technology the laboratory and clinical simulation on Standardized Patients (actors) in Students are required to show a System. These resources enable from our clinical partners on this program does much more than courses prepare the students for the a setting that simulates the clinical minimum level of competency prior students to learn how digital images new competency for the Medical educate students on medical imaging clinical education courses. Only after environment. For instance, students to progressing into clinical education. are acquired and shared using a Radiation Sciences (MRS) has been modalities, it teaches students how to successful completion of the clinical will pick up a requisition, call for their Students’ skills are assessed using wide medical imaging network. Knowledge positive. “Our final year students be flexible and responsive in real-life simulation course, can students “patient” in the waiting room, explain variety of methods, including self- of these modalities also provides are currently working at various scenarios. The program recognizes begin clinical education in a hospital. the procedure that will be conducted, reflection, video review of practice, and students with the basis for CT imaging, clinical sites and these students are the changing nature of the field and is The progressive evaluations in this and gain their consent. The student evaluations by faculty. Radiological and prepares them for learning to well-prepared to integrate their constantly evolving to ensure students course ensure that students are ready will then obtain pertinent patient Technology Professor Alex Gontar sees operate the CT scanner. Manipulation simulated CT experience to the real- are always getting the best experience to practice competently and safely history and perform a mock imaging the clinical simulation semester as a of the CT data acquired during a scan life CT environments in hospital and best education.

20 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 21 By Dana Yates

What students will encounter when they are in the Virtual Environment Radiotherapy Training System (VERT) labs at Michener

hroughout its 52 year history, Michener has Manager of GE Healthcare Canada. “The centre of excellence centre of excellence will provide radiologists, radiological therapy treatment room. Through 3-D computer graphics played a critical role in the health care system is integral to our overall strategy to provide our Canadian technologists, and Michener Medical Radiation Sciences and life-size visualizations, VERT provides radiation Tthrough the education of highly-skilled applied customers with a world-class learning experience and (MRS) students with exceptional hands-on training. As a therapists and interprofessional teams with unprecedented health professionals. Currently, we are poised to further continually improve the quality of health care provided to result, MRS students will gain better working knowledge opportunities for experiential learning. Specifically, VERT strengthen our position as a leading health education Canadians.” of, and practical experience in, CT scanning, imaging and illustrates how theoretical concepts can be translated into institution through the launch of new strategic alliances “Establishing a strategic alliance with a global innovator diagnostic capabilities – skills that are now a vital part clinical practice, enabling students in the Medical Radiation with three progressive organizations. such as GE Healthcare Canada provides an extraordinary of the core competencies needed by all MRS disciplines Sciences program to acquire and refine their skills in a safe, The most recent alliance involves GE HealthCare Canada. opportunity to advance medical imaging,” says Brad Niblett, writing national exams. In addition, Michener graduates, risk-free environment. Earlier this year, the company celebrated the opening Michener’s Chief Information Officer. “Advanced imaging and particularly those in Radiological Technology (X-ray), “This is a proud moment for Michener as we introduce of a new centre of excellence at Michener. This state-of- represents a significant component of the intercollaborative will be well prepared to work with patients in the midst of new state-of-the art technology to support student learning the-art learning and training environment will be used by electronic health record and this new relationship further treatments for various conditions or diseases. within our innovative interprofessional and simulation- current and future generations of health care specialists enables Michener to provide students with a leading-edge A commitment to enriched student learning is a based curriculum,” says Niblett. in computed tomography (CT). Located on the newly curriculum and simulated training experience.” hallmark of Michener. On that note, the Institute has also In working with Michener, Vertual will gain new insights modernized 11th floor at Michener, the GE Healthcare- That learning process will be facilitated by the donation partnered with Vertual Ltd., a United Kingdom-based that will assist the company with future product innovation, Michener Advanced CT Imaging Centre of Excellence of a CT system, the purchase of modern workstations, and company that develops training and education systems according to Vertual’s co-founders Andy Beavis and Roger combines the best contributions from each partner – the the use of additional advanced software and an electronic for radiation therapy professionals. The groundbreaking Phillips. latest CT imaging technology from GE Healthcare, and image library. This library contains a contemporary database partnership, which was announced in 2009, will mark a first “We are fortunate to partner with such an innovative and Michener’s interprofessional, collaborative curriculum and with more than 450 anatomical scans, depicting everything for North America – the introduction of immersive (or virtual forward-thinking educational institution as The Michener simulated clinical workflow. from normal scans to a wide range of pathologies. reality) simulation-based education in radiation therapy. Institute,” says Beavis, Vertual’s Chief Science Officer. “GE Healthcare is extremely proud to collaborate with Gaining access to these leading-edge resources will Simply put, the Virtual Environment Radiotherapy To be sure though, corporations like Vertual and GE The Michener Institute,” says Peter Robertson, General further enhance the learning process. That is to say, the Training System (VERT) simulates a real-world radiation Healthcare aren’t the only types of organizations that have

22 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 23 Michener celebrates Deloitte/IPAC

What students will encounter when they are in the Virtual Environment Radiotherapy Training System (VERT) labs at Michener Award win A virtual scenario that will give students hands on experience before heading to clinical practice By Lissa Manganaro been keen to partner with Michener; government agencies will gain access to further training opportunities, learning to When Michener embarked on a Transformational have also signed up. Health Canada is now working with apply the principles, processes and analysis strategies used Journey in 2004, a journey that would lead to a complete the Institute on a National Biological Dosimetry Response in biological dosimetry testing. redesign of its curriculum, it was responding to a need in the Plan (NBDRP). Without overstating its importance, the “This unique alliance is an innovative example of how health care sector to improve patient care. collaboration is vital to the safety of Canadians. That is, in collective resources can be leveraged to benefit the larger In 2005, a new model of education that embedded the event of a large-scale radiological or nuclear emergency, community in the event of a large-scale disaster,” explains interprofessional collaboration, simulation-based education, Michener’s Genetics Technology (GT) department will help Dr. Karim Bandali, Michener’s Associate Vice President and assessment of readiness for clinical into Michener’s screen those affected by the disaster. of Business Development. “Michener students have the Sylvia Schipke, VP Academic, and Dr. Paul Gamble, President & CEO, curriculum was implemented. The objectives of the academic accept the Leadership Award a ceremony in January 2010 “This co-operation will be of great benefit to both knowledge, skills and competencies to be effective, efficient innovation were to strive to better educate students, and organizations, while providing invaluable support to the and accurate in a crisis.” n the fall of 2009, Michener’s academic efforts were to extend this learning opportunity to Michener’s clinical response to radiological emergencies in Canada,” says This critical partnership was made possible through funding recognized and awarded with the silver IPAC/Deloitte partners and, eventually, beyond. Robert Bradley, Director, Health Canada Consumer and from the Chemical, Biological, Radiological-Nuclear and Explosive IPublic Sector Leadership Award in the Education “Michener is proud of its success and as we continue to Clinical Radiation Protection Bureau. Research and Technology Initiative, part of Defence and Research Category for its project titled – Innovation Strategy: strive for Best Experience, Best Education, we realize that this In particular, now that Michener is a centre for Development Canada’s Centre for Security Science. Future Transforming Education in the Applied Health Sciences. journey continues,” says Sylvia Schippke, Vice-President, emergency response within the NBDRP, the Institute’s activities undertaken through this alliance will include continued From examining the needs and challenges facing Academic. “Evaluation of the academic innovation strategy physical resources, including equipment and space, will be student training, a table-top exercise to assess the logistics of the health care facilities, it was apparent that the traditional and early indicators are validating that students are entering used during a crisis situation to help process large numbers arrival and processing of specimens at Michener, and upgrading education model was no longer preparing students to meet the clinical sites better prepared.” of blood samples to assess radiation exposure levels. equipment to meet testing requirements. the challenges faced in a clinical setting. Michener took on Michener believes a solid foundation has been laid that Transferring samples to Michener during an incident will the role of transformational leader and challenged existing will continue to transform health care delivery towards Dr. Paul Gamble, President & CEO Michener, and help alleviate strain on other NBDRP laboratories that may Peter Robertson, GM GE Healthcare Canada, celebrate boundaries in developing a vision for a new future. interprofessionalism for years to come. the opening of the new Advanced CT be overwhelmed, or unavailable due to the Imaging Centre of Excellence scale of the emergency. Without a doubt, the partnership between Michener and Health Canada Get into offers many advantages – to both organizations. First, the Canadian Michener government will benefit from the GT wear program’s expertise in cytogenetic analysis and sample processing. Second, the GT program will build its capacity. And third, students

Interested in purchasing the very latest in Michener wear? Go to the online store at www.michener.ca/michenerwear and get into Michener wear.

Michener Magazine Summer 2010 25

O F G alumni happenings

Weddings Achievements Announcement

Honorary Calling all Graduates of 2009 The Michener Institute’s Applied Educational Research Department Diploma is conducting its annual Graduate Satisfaction Study. The Graduate recipient Satisfaction Survey measures the satisfaction level of recent graduates’ experiences at Michener. We are Dr. C. looking for the class of 2009 to share their thoughts about their programs. Jana Charyk (Chiropody 2003) Christine Nielsen Please go to my.michener.ca/gradsat Joseph Congratulations to Jana Charyk who (Medical Laboratory Sciences 1997) and complete the online survey. In was married on November 1, 2009 to On January 11, 2010, Christine appreciation for your time, your name will David Dworetzky. Nielsen returned to the Canadian be entered into a $100 cash prize draw. Kurian Society for Medical Laboratory Science For more information please contact Compiled by Katie Schrank Achievements to become Executive Director. She is [email protected]. looking forward to this challenging and rewarding opportunity. The Alumni Association is looking for new members to r. C. Joseph Kurian is a Alpha Laboratories, a company that In addition to his foundation In Memory join its Board of Directors. dedicated supporter of he founded with his wife, Kuttimol, in work, Dr. Kurian has published in Email us at Dinnovation and research in 1971. He received his PhD in Chemistry international scientific journals and Bronwen Roberts [email protected]. the applied health sciences, and was from the Indian Institute of Technology holds several patents. He is the (Respiratory Therapy, 1981) the recipient of The Michener Institute and came to the University of Toronto founding patron of the Canadian Bronwen Roberts passed away If you’ve gotten married, for Applied Health Sciences Honorary in 1961. He completed postdoctoral Association of Physicians of Indian on December 12, 2009. Bronwen had a baby or achieved a Diploma of Health Science for 2009. fellowships at the University of Toronto Heritage, the first President of the worked as a respiratory therapist career milestone, we want to “Dr. Kurian received his honorary and the University of Pennsylvania. Toronto Chapter of The Indian at the Henderson site of Hamilton hear from you. Email us at diploma in recognition of his leadership His commitment to research and Entrepreneurs, founder of the Toronto Jane Hilton (Medical Laboratory Health Sciences for 25 years. Her [email protected]. in the medical community, and innovation prompted Dr. Kurian to Eclectic Society and the Policy Initiative Technology 1979) colleagues remember her love of his selfless approach to sharing his venture into e-health with the founding and Election Readiness Group, and an Jane Hilton became the 2010 animals, travel, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats knowledge and time with those in the of Alpha Global IT in 2000. Alpha advocate for Responsible Healthcare for President of the Ontario Library Board football team and her quiet support of applied health sciences, and beyond,” attracts faculty and students from Ontarians. Association (OLBA). The association many charitable causes. She will be Key dates 2010 says Cathy Fooks, former Chair, Canadian universities to undertake Michener Honorary Diplomas of represents public library board members remembered by all for her courage, Michener Board of Governors. graduate work. Social justice, fairness Health Science are awarded to individuals who govern over 360 library systems in strength and dedication to patient care. Orientation Week The contributions Dr. Kurian has and compassion for the underprivileged who demonstrate leadership and Ontario. Jane was recently re-elected as Bronwen was loved by her family and September 1 - September 3 made to the applied health sciences motivate his activities. His dream is to commitment to the applied health sciences, the Chair of the Whitby Public Library friends and will be missed dearly. Annual Student Awards align with two of Michener’s core values build a hospital for the marginalized as well as dedication to health care Board and also serves as the Chair of Ceremony - transforming lives and embodying in India and a centre for street kids innovation and the advancement of applied Southern Ontario Library’s Trustee October 20 excellence – and made him an in Toronto. He established the Alpha health sciences education. The Michener Council #5 with representation from the Convocation outstanding candidate for this honour. Charitable Foundation in 1993 to help Institute is proud to have recognized Dr. Central East Region. November 13 Dr. Kurian is the President of achieve this dream. Kurian with this Honorary Diploma.

26 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 Michener Magazine Summer 2010 27

Simulation possibilities takeBy Andy Berthiaume flight for students Students making a n Wednesday, September 16th, 2009, eight of Simulation and Education will play in their education. difference a world away students from various programs, including The students saw the parallels between aviation and health care, By Katie Schrank OUltrasound, Genetics Technology and the Medical including the importance of communication and teamwork. Radiation Sciences, visited the CAE flight simulation centre “The simulation allowed us to practice teamwork in a n 2009, Michener was taken by storm by a group of With events such as bake sales and “lunch and learns,” to experience the world of aviation training. The lucky high-stress crisis situation, without the real-life consequences students with passion for a cause: V-Day, a global as well as a presence at almost all student council events, the participants won this unique opportunity at the 2009 of making a mistake,” said Tony Ho-Tong, a first year Imovement to end violence against women and girls. V-Day committee has raised awareness and money since they Michener student orientation assembly. Ultrasound student. “I can now see that the potential for This enthusiastic group of students brought a wave of were established at Michener in 2008. The signature event The students, accompanied by Respiratory Therapy simulation in educating health care professionals is huge.” awareness to the student body, as well as the faculty and staff of many V-Day campaigns is the presentation of Eve Ensler’s faculty member Susan Dunington, were welcomed to the Many in the group also saw numerous other benefits to of Michener. The Vagina Monologues. Michener’s V-Day Committee put CAE flight simulation centre by Erica Walker, Instructor simulation. Every year, the V-Day Organization focuses on a on the Institute’s first-ever rendition in 2009, and followed Pilot, and Mark Gaudet, Lead Ground School Instructor. “Health care simulation will be very effective in particular group in need of support. In 2009, it was the it with an even more engaging performance in 2010. Both During their five hour visit, the students were organized developing competencies for Michener students,” stated women of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and, due shows were performed in front of packed houses to rave into small collaborative groups to participate in realistic Sharlene Koroscil, a first year Genetics Technology student. to the civil unrest in that country, the women of the DRC reviews by the Michener community. flight scenarios in CAE’s state-of-the-art simulator. The “The realism and variety of these scenarios will prepare continue to be the focus of V-Day events in 2010. All events Thanks to the support of student council and the crisis scenarios they experienced included assisting a sick students to handle anything that comes their way in the also support a local cause that provides assistance to women Michener community, the V-Day Committee raised $4,000 passenger on board, dealing with close flying aircrafts, and health care setting. Judging from our experience with the and girls who have experienced violence in their lives. The in 2009 for women in the DRC and the Fred Victor Centre guiding the aircraft through extreme weather conditions. flight simulator, I think that the CAE-Michener alliance will ultimate goal of supporting both local and international Women’s Hostel in Toronto. They hope to improve on After the flight sessions, Walker lead a debrief discussion greatly contribute to how students learn.” groups is to raise awareness that violence against women their monetary total by the end of 2010, and to educate and with the participants. The students were amazed by the This once-in-a-lifetime experience has contributed to the happens at home and abroad. involve even more students and staff in the cause. realistic nature of the flight simulator, and discussed how excitement surrounding the opening of theCAE/Michener the experience had increased their understanding of the Centre for the Advancement of Simulation and Education important role the CAE/Michener Centre for the Advancement and has left the participants with indelible memories.

If you would like to learn more about V-Day please visit www.vday.org or email Michener’s V-Day Committee at [email protected]. Group home and auto insurance Insurance as simple as

for members of The Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences

Insurance doesn’t need to be complicated. As a member of The Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences, you deserve – and receive – special care when you deal with TD Insurance Meloche Monnex.

First, you enjoy savings through preferred group rates.

Second, you benefit from great coverage and you get the flexibility to choose the level of protection that suits your needs.1

Third, you receive outstanding service.

At TD Insurance Meloche Monnex our goal is to make insurance easy for you to understand, Request a quote so you can choose your coverage with confidence. and you could After all, we’ve been doing it for 60 years!

Insurance program recommended by 1 866 352 6187 Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. www.melochemonnex.com/michener

TD Insurance Meloche Monnex is the trade name of SECURITY NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY which also underwrites the home and auto insurance program. The program is distributed by Meloche Monnex Insurance and Financial Services Inc. in Quebec and by Meloche Monnex Financial Services Inc. in the rest of Canada. Due to provincial legislation, our auto insurance program is not offered in British Columbia, Manitoba or Saskatchewan. 1 Certain conditions and restrictions may apply. * No purchase required. Contest ends on January 14, 2011. Total value of each prize is $30,000 which includes the Honda Insight EX (excluding applicable taxes, preparation and transportation fees) and a $3,000 gas voucher. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Skill-testing question required. Contest organized jointly with Primmum Insurance Company and open to members, employees and other eligible people of all employer and professional and alumni groups who have an agreement with and are entitled to group rates from the organizers. Complete contest rules and eligibility information available at www.melochemonnex.com. Actual prize may differ from picture shown. Honda is a trade-mark of Honda Canada Inc., who is not a participant in or a sponsor of this promotion. Meloche Monnex is a trade-mark of Meloche Monnex Inc., used under license. TD Insurance is a trade-mark of The Toronto-Dominion Bank, used under license.

2 -- --)%.sMICHENERX INDD 6/1/10 11:32:43 AM

Projet : Annonce MMI 2010 Province : /NTARIO Épreuve # :3 Client : Meloche Monnex Publication : -ICHENER Date de tombée : 02/03/10 No de dossier : Format : X 2 -- --)%.sMICHENERX Couleur : COULEUR Graphiste : 9ANNICK$ECOSSE

Publication Agreement(AMELIN-ARTINEAUs BOULDE-AISONNEUVE/"UREAUs-ONTRÏAL1UÏBEC (!#s4& #40007048 ATTENTION : Merci de vérifier attentivement cette épreuve afin d’éviter toute erreur.