(Image Source: https://www.mindtransformations.com/blog/self-reflection-2021/#)
As I enter the midpoint of the first health promotion course in the Master of Health Studies program, I am proud of what has been accomplished so far. I have learned a great deal about what health promotion is and how it benefits the overall health of a population/community. I started this course with a minimal understanding of what health promotion is, but I feel as though the past eight weeks has provided me with a wealth of knowledge on this topic. I have been able to utilize what I have learned about social determinants of health and socioeconomic factors and apply it to course material that has focused on the Ottawa Charter, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and health promotion theories that can be used to address a health concern. It has been interesting to learn about the policies and changes made in Canada to assist in reducing health disparities and providing equitable, reliable, and safe healthcare to all Canadians. While I often feel grateful to live in a country with free healthcare, I am now realizing how much more needs to be done to ensure Canadians are being provided inclusive and easily accessible health care.
While researching the health concern I am studying regarding the number of Canadians who lack access to primary care, I am surprised to find that I am, like most Canadians, resorting to walk in clinics or emergency departments for healthcare treatment. Much of the care required, is not urgent or emergent, but unfortunately, they are the few sources available for those who do not have a family physician. While I am fortunate enough to have the means to obtain primary healthcare, many Canadians are not as privileged. Factors such as living in remote locations, working during physicians’ clinic hours, as well as family physicians limiting the number of patients being seen in their clinic are all resulting in limited access to primary care. Canada is making great strides in advancements in telehealth, which will allow Canadians better access to primary healthcare. This service ensures they are being provided with the appropriate health care required, all the while, reducing the burden on the emergency departments.
I am early in my journey of finding ways to improve Canadians’ access to primary health care and intrigued to see what else can be done to improve the Canadian health system. While I do not feel we are anywhere near attaining all the SDGs, I feel as though if the correct steps are taken, Canada can make great strides in providing a better health system and better health outcomes for all Canadians.Learning more about telehealth has not only allowed me to gain a better understanding of how I can access primary healthcare myself, but also encourage others to utilize the service as well. The more people who utilize telehealth for minor health concerns, will result in decreased emergency room wait times and allow the appropriate time and attention given for those who require urgent care.
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