On this page you will find many different links to sites that you may find useful, either for your own professional interest or as a resource for your patients. There are sites with information on such health issues as Respiratory, Cardiovascular, Cancer, Mental Health, Immunizations, AIDS/HepC, Disease States, Drug Information, Geriatric Health, Alternative Medicine, Women's Health, Men's Health, as well as Weight Loss Issues. You will find the links to these categories by clicking on the one you are looking for in the button menu to the left.

Listed below are links to a number of Professional Pharmacist Organizations:

SCP: The Saskatchewan College of Pharmacists
Exists so there will be quality pharmacy care in Saskatchewan.website

PAS: Pharmacists Association of Saskatchewan
Dedicated to the advancement of the profession of pharmacy in Saskatchewan. www.skpharmacists.ca/

NAPRA: The National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities
Founded in 1995 by Canada's pharmacy regulatory bodies to enable members to take a national approach in addressing common issues. website (links for all Provincial Regulatory Bodies are on this site)

CPhA: The Canadian Pharmacists Association
The national organization of pharmacists, committed to providing leadership for the profession of pharmacy
National Website  Conference/Events Page

CSHP: The Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists
National voluntaryorganization of pharmacists committed to the advancement of patient-centred pharmacy practice in hospitals and related health care settings.National Website, CSHP Events Page 

  Saskatchewan Branch of CSHP: www.cshp-sk.org

NCPA: National Community Pharmacists Association (American site)
Represents the pharmacist owners, managers, and employees of independent community pharmacies across the United States
www.ncpanet.org

FIP: International Pharmaceutical Federation(International site)
A world-wide federation of national pharmaceutical (professional and scientific) associations, with a mission to represent and serve pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences around the globe. Through its member associations, FIP connects, represents and serves more a million pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists around the world. FIP was founded in The Hague, The Netherlands, in 1912 and still has its central office in The Hague.
Although FIP is a federation of associations, any pharmacist or pharmaceutical scientist can apply to become an Individual Member ofFIP.
FIP activities are designed to improve the long-term effectiveness of patient care. It has actively worked towards the WHO goal of health for all, and intends to continue to do so. Website: http://www.fip.org

Pharmacists Without Borders - Canada
This is the Canadian branch of an international organization, called PSF-Canada, it was founded by Quebec pharmacist Hubert Brault, and is situated at the head office of the Quebec Association of Pharmacy Owners. Pharmacists Without Borders (PSF) is a humanitarian organization that is widely recognized by the international health community for its distribution of medications to vulnerable populations who are enduring situations of armed conflict, distress, or natural disaster. PSF is comprised mainly of pharmacists who wish to help populations in need to organize their medical distribution networks, and to assure the proper management of essential medications. The goal of PSF is to provide access to quality essential medications, as well, it is setting the standards for other NGOs concerning pharmaceutical care. To visit the Canadian website click http://www.psfcanada.org/en/index.html to visit the International website click http://www.psfci.org/

Respiratory resources/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated August 2010)

• Canadian Lung Association
  Dedicated to do everything possible to improve respiratory health.  National Website, Provincial Website
  
  The Lung Associations of Manitoba and Saskatchewan have created a professional development program to teach health care professionals to better educate people with asthma and COPD. For more information: webpage
  
  
• Canadian Thoracic Society (CTS)
  The medical section of the Canadian Lung Association. It advises the Lung Association on the scientific matters and programs including policies regarding support for research and professional education. Website  Professional Development Link
• Asthma Society of Canada
  A national organization whose mandate is to help Canadians live well with asthma through education and research. Seeks to provide 'evidence-based,' market tested, age appropriate asthma information, education, management tools and support programs for Canadians with asthma. National Website
• Pulmonary Hypertension Society of Canada (PHS)
  A non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for pulmonary hypertension patients. National Website
• PHCentral (PHC) (American site with information on Pulmonary Hypertension)
  internet resource for pulmonary hypertension-related information for patients, caregivers, and Medical Professionals
  Website

Cardiovascular resources/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated August 2010)

• Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
  National voluntary non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the health of Canadians by preventing and reducing disability and death from heart disease and stroke. Provincial Website
• The Canadian Hypertension Society
  Formed by Canadian health professional interested in improving hypertension research, education and patient care. Promotes the prevention and control of hypertension through research and education. National Website
• Cardiovascular Health Awareness Program
  The information provided on this page is to help Pharmacists better understand their role in the Cardiovascular Health Awareness Program, as well as overall information about CHAP. Website

Cancer resources/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated August 2010)

• SCA: Saskatchewan Cancer Agency
  Delivers effective and sustainable research, education, prevention, early detection, treatment and supportive care programs for the control of cancer in Saskatchewan. www.saskcancer.ca/
• Canadian Cancer Society
  National community based organization of volunteers whose mission is the eradication of cancer and the enhancement of the quality of life of people living with cancer. National Website, Provincial Website
• The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
  T he world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. The Society's mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. (This organization's head office is in White Plains,New York but there are also Canadian Chapters...just enter postal code in the Chapter Finder at the top right of the Home Page.) HomeSite, Canadian Site

Immunization resources/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated August 20, 2009)

• Canadian Coalition for Immunization Awareness & Promotion (CCIAP)
  The goal of the CCIAP is to contribute to the control/elimination/eradication of vaccine preventable diseases in Canada by increasing awareness of the benefits and risks of immunization for all ages via education, promotion, advocacy and media relations.The CCIAP is a partnership of national non-governmental, professional, health, consumer, government and private sector organizations with a specific interest in promoting the understanding and use of vaccines recommended by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization.  Website
  
  Other links to Immunization Information:

• Institute of Infection and Immunity (III) [is one of the 13 virtual institutes that make up the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)]
  Supports research and helps to build research capacity in the areas of infectious disease and the body's immune system. Through the Institute's programs, researchers address a wide range of health concerns related to infection and immunity including disease mechanisms, disease prevention and treatment, and health promotion through public policy.
  Through a global network of researchers, stakeholders and partners the III plays an important role in generating and disseminating information on infectious disease and immunity. In addition, the III plays an important leadership role on infectious disease issues in Canada, including helping to coordinate Canada's rapid research response to infectious disease outbreaks, especially those caused by new, emerging pathogens. Website

AIDS/HepC Resources/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated September 7, 2010)

• Canadian AIDS Society (CAS)
  A national coalition of over 125 community-based AIDS organizations across Canada. Dedicated to strengthening the response to HIV/AIDS across all sectors of society, and to enriching the lives of people and communities living with HIV/AIDS.  Website
  
  Several Saskatchewan HIV/AIDS sites:

• Canadian AIDS Treatment Information Exchange (CATIE)
  Canada's gateway to information about HIV/AIDS. National Website  Annual General Meeting and Educational Conference page
• Canadian Public Health Association - Seniors and HIV/AIDS
  In a documentary "Seniors and Sex" that aired on CBC's program The Current, the incidence of HIV among seniors has doubled in the past decade. When it comes to seniors, the discussion is usually centred around other health issues and not much talk about sexually active seniors. There is the incorrect assumption that safer sex discussion does not really apply to them. With the advent of drugs that treat erectile dysfunction, sex is possible again for many seniors. See CPHA's page. See also an article entitled "Senior citizens and HIV over 50" which includes a free online Safer Sex Course.
• The Hepatitis C Society of Canada, Victoria Chapter
  This link has been provided in lieu of a National website, after many searches it seems as though one no longer exists. The Victoria chapter is non-profit and provides hepatitis C awareness, education and support. Victoria Chapter website
• The Canadian Liver Foundation
  A national, charitable health organization with chapters across the country, dedicated to liver health and to eliminate the over 100 forms of liver disease, including hepatitis. The foundation looks at treatment, research, and provides professional eduation, patient information and support. National Website  
• The Hepatitis Information Network website

Disease States resources/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated September 7, 2010)

• Alzheimer's Society of Canada
  Not-for-profit health organization working nationwide to improve the quality of life for Canadians affected by Alzheimer's disease and advance the search for the cause and cure. They provide support, information and education to people with Alzheimer's disease, families, physicians and health-care providers. National Website
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Society of Canada (ALS is also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease)
  An organization that supports research towards a cure for ALS, supports provincial ALS societies in their provision of quality care for persons living with ALS and builds public awareness of ALS and its impact. National Website
• Arthritis Society of Canada
  A not-for-profit organization devoted solely to funding and promoting arthritis research, programs and patient care. National Website
• Centre for Chronic Disease Prevention and Control (CCDPC)
  Works with stakeholders at all levels to provide pan-Canadian and international leadership in chronic disease prevention and control through integrated policy and program development, surveillance, and knowledge development and dissemination. Website
• Canadian Diabetes Association
  Serves the needs of people with diabetes. National Website, Provincial Website
• Fibromyalgia Syndrome.
  There is an information site in Ottawa; very useful with articles and links, explanations of syndrome, an on-line support group and it updated fairly regularly. Website. Another site gives information about the signs and symptoms, diagnosis and tests, medical and alternative treatments, diet, exercise and self-care. webpage
• Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
  A leading charitable funder and advocate for Type 1 diabetes and its complications. Website
• Huntington Society of Canada (HSC)
  A national network of volunteers and professionals united in the fight against HD. Their goal is to find new treatments and ultimately a cure for Huntington disease, and to improve the quality of life for people with HD and their families.  National Website
• The Kidney Foundation of Canada
  A national volunteer organization committed to reducing the burden of kidney disease. National Website, Provincial Website
• Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation
  The web site is compiled for the purpose of informing community members of resources and information pertaining to Lyme Borreliosis Disease and its coinfections. Information on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, tick removal methods, lyme disease in Canada, and a section for physicians. Website
• Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada
  An organization working towards finding a cure for multiple sclerosis and enabling people affected by MS to enhance their quality of life. Two major programs provide hope for the future through the support of MS research into the cause, treatment and cure of the disease and hope for today through our many services that assist people with MS and their families. National Website
• Osteoporosis Canada
  National organization serving people who have, or are at risk for, osteoporosis. The organization works to educate, empower and support individuals and communities in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
  National Website
• Parkinson Society of Canada
  A not for profit, national charitable organization whose mission is to find the cause and cure for Parkinson's disease. Their purpose is to ease the burden and find a cure through research, education, advocacy and support services. National Website
• Psoriasis Society of Canada
  A National Organization dedicated to the people who have psoriasis in Canada. Assists those who have psoriasis by providing up-to-date information on treatment, programs and services. National Website
• Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders (CORD)
  A national network for organizations representing all those with rare disorders. Provides a strong common voice to advocate for health policy and a healthcare system that works for those with rare disorders. CORD works with governments, researchers, clinicians and industry to promote research, diagnosis, treatment and services for all rare disorders in Canada. National Website
• Scleroderma Society of Canada (SSC)
  Promote awareness of scleroderma (a connective tissue disease that is characterized by fibrosis (thickening and hardening) of the skin and other organs, to support research toward finding a cure and to provide support and information to those affected by the disease. National Website

Drug Information resources & SDIS recommended sites/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated August 2010)

• medSask 
  Provides consumer and professional drug information services.
  Consumer Drug Information is a service for the public, funded by Saskatchewan Health, to encourage responsible use of medications, and supplement information and advice provided by pharmacists and physicians.
  Healthcare Professional Drug Information is a service for pharmacists, physicians and other health care professionals throughout Saskatchewan. It is funded by grants from the province, SCP, CSHP, the College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, donations from practitioners, and the pharmaceutical industry. http://medsask.usask.ca/  **to see their recommended sites, scroll down to the bottom of the page.
• The RxFiles
  Objective comparative drug information. www.rxfiles.ca
• MedEffect Canada: Adverse Reaction Database
  Computerized database that houses Canadian suspected adverse reactions which have been reported to Health Canada. The reports are for suspected adverse reactions to drugs and health products, such as prescription and non-prescription medication, natural health products and radiopharmaceuticals.. The Aadverse Reaction database only contains reports of reactions that have occurred in Canada with Canadian marketed health products, this online database is updated on a quarterly basis. www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/medeff/databasdon/index_e.html
• Health Canada: Advisories, Warnings and Recalls
  This web-page is intended to provide timely information for public advisories, both past and current; public warnings; and consumer product recalls, including foreign product alerts -- see page
• CADTH: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health
  National body that provides health care decision makers with credible, impartial advice and evidence-based information about the effectiveness & efficiency of drugs and other health technologies. Information is provided through three programs: Health Technology Assessment (HTA), the Common Drug Review (CDR) and the Canadian Optimal Medication Prescribing & Utilization Service (COMPUS). www.cadth.ca
• Be MedWise
  This site was created with the participation of the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) and the Drug Information and Research Centre (DIRC).This site is part of a North American campaign educating Canadians about proper over-the-counter (OTC) drug use.  Website
• Drug Information Resources (Dalhousie University)
  Reference resources particularly useful to pharmacists are organized under category headings. These resources were selected by the authors or by pharmacists and/or health professionals who have expertise in specialty areas. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information.

Geriatric Health resources/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated September 7, 2010)

• Aging and Seniors (Health Canada)
  The Division of Aging and Seniors, provides information on health issues related to aging and seniors. The Division also serves as a centre of expertise in this area. It shows "what's new" in a month by month format, along with articles related to seniors. Website
• Seniors and HIV/AIDS - Canadian Public Health Association
  In a documentary "Seniors and Sex" that aired on CBC's program The Current, the incidence of HIV among seniors has doubled in the past decade. When it comes to seniors, the discussion is usually regarding other health issues and not much talk about sexually active seniors. With the advent of drugs that treat erectile dysfunction, sex is possible again for many seniors. See CPHA's page. See also an article entitled "Senior citizens and HIV over 50" which includes a free online Safer Sex Course.
• Health Quality Council Year-long study with Seniors
  Involving pharmacists more closely in the drug treatment of Saskatchewan seniors living in long-term care yields better, safer care. That's the key finding from a year-long demonstration project designed to measure the impact of giving pharmacists a bigger role on care teams working in long-term care homes. The initiative was led by the province's Health Quality Council. The report on the demonstration project measured the impact of an expanded role for pharmacists on care teams, a Quality Improvement Workbook was produced and the 2004 version is posted on their website. QI Workbook. As well, there is now a 2007 Long-term care demo report which builds on the above while using a team approach. Or go to the Health Quality care website and do a search of the heading "Drug Management in Long-Term Care": www.hqc.sk.ca.
• National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly (NICE)
  The website for this network has information on upcoming conferences, partner organizations, e-newsletters posted, Aging in the News and more. Visit the website.
• Canadian Coalition for Seniors' Mental Health
  The CCSMH initiatives are based on the belief that mental illness is not a normal part of aging; as well, all seniors have the right and deserve to receive services and care that promotes their mental health and responds to their mental illness needs. They also promote Public Awareness and Education, Best Practices, Advocacy, Research and Caregiving. Their second annual national conference is in September. Visit the website.
• The Geriatric Patient
  This is a web-blog about different issues for aging and health, as well as the different drugs that are prescribed to the elderly. Go to the blog.
• Medication & Falls in the Elderly
  This is an article published by the Drug Information and Research centre by Brent Ruddock. It also contains a table of Adverse drug effects and the medications that cause them. Go to article.
• Commission for Certification in Geriatric Pharmacy (American site)
  The goal of the commission is to promote excellence in Geriatric health care through education and certification to American and International candidates. Part of the reason for certification is the emergence of public awareness of medication-related problems. A pharmacist who is certified has demonstrated knowledge and skills in geriatric pharmaceutical care and will be better prepared to advise patients on their drug therapy needs. CCGP provides a self-assessment program and exam. For more information see their web page.

Alternative Medicine resources/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated September 7, 2010)

• CAMline
  An Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative medicine website for Healthcare professionals and the public. It provides information on the safety and efficacy of CAM from healthcare professionals and to peer-review and present this information. Website
• Health Canada - Natural Health Products
  As part of the Natural Health Products Directorate, Health Canada ensures that all Canadians have ready access to natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality, while respecting freedom of choice and philosophical and cultural diversity. This site discusses Natural Health Products: what they are, frequently asked questions, research, and includes electronic bulletins and communiqués. Website
• Resource Guide for Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Pharmacy
  This page is on the University of Alberta Libraries site, the page is focused on pharmaceutical aspects of Complementary and Alternative Medicine but many of the suggested resources will also apply to other alternative therapies. Web page
• Herbal Materia Medica (American site)
  A site that lists different herbs (alphabetically) used in medicine. Click on the herb you're interested in to see parts used, constituents, actions, indications, preparations and dosage. Website
• NCCAM: National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine(American site)
  Dedicated to exploring complementary and alternative healing practices in the context of rigorous science, training complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) researchers, and disseminating authoritative information to the public and professionals.
  http://nccam.nih.gov/

Women's Health resources/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated September 7, 2010)

• Women's Mid-Life Health Centre of Saskatchewan
  Provides reliable information, treatment and support to pre-, post- and menopausal women. www.menopausecentre.org
• Women's Healthy Living Fact Sheet Site (Health Canada)
  This site contains links to Fact Sheets on women's health issues such as Breast Cancer, Breast Implants, Women and Cancer, Cervical cancer, Gender - based Analysis, Women and Heart Health, Hormone replacement therapy, Lesbian Health - Tip Sheet for Health Care Providers, Mammography and Women's Health, The Health of Senior Women, Women and Sexual and Reproductive Health, Women and Tobacco and Violence against Women. Website
• Women's Health Matters
  Canadian source for reliable, evidence-based and up-to-date information on women's health and lifestyle issues. Women's health experts from Women's College Hospital and the Women’s College Research Institute developed this site and play an ongoing role in its expansion and review.  Website
• What Older Women Want
  This website came about in response to the findings from the WOW Knowledge Translation Project that was set up to answer questions related to women's health. Dr. Cara Tannenbaum’s WOW study asked 2,500 older women in Canada which of their health needs were not being met. Three of the themes most often mentioned were: 1) Screening and treating urinary incontinence 2) Counselling about memory loss (or perceived memory loss) 3) Exercise strategies to address concerns such as falls and functional decline. Website

Men's Health resources/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated September 7, 2010)

• CSSAM: Canadian Society for the Study of the Aging Male
  An association of physicians and allied health care professionals working together for the promotion of research, education and increased awareness about the medical, sociological, psychological and physical changes in aging men. The Society's aim is to disseminate information on the andropause and on all other conditions that impact on the health of the male as he ages. To achieve this goal, the Society promotes workshops, lectures and publications, and encourages and supports relevant research endeavours. Website
• Men's Health: Just For You (Health Canada)
  Health Canada and the New window Public Health Agency of Canada have many online resources on Men's health issues such as Diseases & Conditions, Family Violence, Healthy Living, Heart Health, Risky Behaviours, Sexual & Reproductive Health & Survivors of Abuse. This site has links to information on these issues and more.  Website
• Men'sHealthCanada.com
  The material on this site contributed by a team of health care professionals with a Canadian perspective. Learn about medical conditions that could affect you or a family member. The site is designed to provide the latest medical information. Website
• Prostate Cancer Canada
  This site is a comprehensive site, where one can find medical and support resources, a newsletter, a glossary, plus advocacy, research and prevention information. Website
• The Canadian Prostate Cancer Network
  "The Voice of prostate cancer in Canada". This is a Canadian association of prostate cancer support groups, information on recovery after surgery, list of on-line resources available on this site. Website
• Men's Health, Nutrition, etc on MedBroadcast
  Stay up-to-date with the latest information on the men's health, nutrition, fitness and illness. A comprehensive guide. Website

Weight Loss Issues resources/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated September 7, 2010)

• Nutrition and Healthy Eating
  A Health Canada site, their philosophy is that healthy eating is fundamental to good health and is a key element in healthy human development, from the prenatal and early childhood years to later life stages. Nutritional information, Dietary Guidance and information on Healthy Weights is some of the information that can be found on this site.
• Canada's Food Guide
  This site contains the Food Guide Basics, how to use the Food Guide, and tips for maintaining healthy eating habits. There is also a Food Guide for First Nations, Inuit and Metis. Website
• Rx Files Weight Loss Information
  This is information that was presented at the Winter 2007 CPDP Sunday Seminar; the newsletter article on Weight Loss Drugs and the Comparison Chart, both in pdf.
• It's Your Health: The Safe Use of Health Products for Weight Loss"
  It's Your Health articles, plus the safe use of Natural Health products. A Health Canada page. see the Website
• Exercise & Weight Loss (International site)
  This is a website for the Vardaan Hospital, their endeavour is to help people be healthy so that they can be productive members of society. There are 3 pages that give information on determining if a person is overweight (hip to waist ratio), suggestions to lose weight and keep it off, tips on starting an exercise program. Website
• National Eating Disorder Information Centre
  A Canadian non-profit organization established in 1985 to provide information and resources on eating disorders and weight preoccupation. Their goal is to promote healthy lifestyles that allow people to be fully engaged in their lives. There is information about their conferences, giving help, discussion and articles about body image, a resource library, prevention & promotion, knowing the facts and a what's new section. Website

Other resources & Tidbits/Health Professional Agencies Directory
(last updated September 7, 2010)

• TIDBIT -- "People Taking Diuretics Should Avoid Natural Licorice Products!" People with blood pressure issues and/or who take diuretics should avoid any products containing natural licorice. According to a Harvard Health Letter, a Natural licorice -- usually an imported product -- can raise blood pressure, sometimes significantly. It contains the chemical glycyrrhizin, which causes the body to retain sodium (and therefore fluids) and to lose potassium. (Read more)
• Information Update -- Health Canada reminds Consumers about the Risks of buying prescription drugs on-line. To read the update.
• ScienceDaily is a research news website which has Health & Medicine tab to information on that page