We toured the STARS Ambulance in Regina
When it comes to transporting patients in need of emergent medical care, the stars are the limit!
New opportunities open with hospital
As the Jim Pattison Children's Hospital opens its doors, there may also be a window opening for new research opportunities in children's health.
Expanding the boundaries of collaboration
Achieving success by crossing traditional lines of collaboration, two partnerships at the College of Medicine offer insights into why these alliances are needed and how they can be fostered.
MS researcher dedicated to improving lives
In nearly 40 years of investigating how the body repairs its nervous system, Dr. Valerie Verge (PhD) hasn’t found all of the answers yet, but she’s getting closer.
Global impact begins at local level for Muhajarine
Dr. Nazeem Muhajarine (PhD) felt his family always wanted him to go into medicine, but he decided to follow in his father’s footsteps.
Expanding the boundaries of collaboration
Achieving success by crossing traditional lines of collaboration, two partnerships at the College of Medicine offer insights into why these alliances are needed and how they can be fostered.
How Writing an Essay Deepened My Interest in Anesthesiology
"It is without question in anesthesia that the adverse effects of obesity have complicated the work of the profession and new strategies can be undertaken to deal with the effect of these."
USask app helps read medicine labels
New USask smartphone app helps visualize and “translate” difficult information on over-the-counter drug labels in way that is accessible to everyone.
Driving healthcare innovation
A health emergency changed the trajectory of Melinda Richter’s career, launching her from telecommunications into medical innovations.
Grade 9 students try out a career in medicine for a day
What if you could get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into a day in the life of a doctor?
Creating a Cartoon to Engage Patients About Their Health
Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency globally. Some studies indicate a 79% prevalence rate in remote areas in Canada. It’s also particularly common in children.
College of Medicine researchers recognized for excellence in research
Five College of Medicine researchers and their teams have been recognized for their excellence in research by the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (SHRF).
Meet the new Vice-Dean Faculty Engagement
Serving as a liaison between the College of Medicine and all faculty, Dr. Marilyn Baetz (MD’93, FRCPC’98) is already a leader in both the academic and clinical worlds.
Oncology division head focusing on developing research, collaborative network
As division head of oncology at the College of Medicine, Dr. Shahid Ahmed (MD) is looking for ways to encourage more research with cancer patients.
Academic path leads LaFleur around world
Jamie LaFleur’s road to convocation has featured a few stops and starts and twists and turns, but most importantly, a long list of life-changing experiences.
2019 Fall Convocation award recipients
More than 900 degrees, diplomas and certificates will be awarded to University of Saskatchewan (USask) students at the annual Fall Convocation ceremonies on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at Merlis Belsher Place.
The 21st Century Physician: Technology is Changing, Why Aren’t We?
Medicine is constantly evolving. Physicians in the 21st century will have diagnostic, screening, and preventative equipment with far greater capabilities than their 20th century predecessors.
When pain in children is caused by more than just an injury
If a child experiences pain after an injury for a longer amount of time than expected, it could be due to a pain disorder called complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).
Therapy dogs give One Health benefits
Meet Womble. He’s part of the “PAWS Your Stress” therapy dog program at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).
Understanding and advocating for miyo-māhcihowin (good health and well-being) among Indigenous Peoples living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Despite research about inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the general population, there is limited-to-no evidence about IBD among Indigenous peoples in Canada.
Beyond a Diagnosis: Looking at New Ways to Support Patients and Caregivers Living with Dementia in Rural and Remote Saskatchewan
Those who are living with dementia in Saskatchewan’s rural and remote areas face many challenges, beginning with receiving a proper diagnosis, and continuing with disease management, care and support.
People Living with MS Eager to Take Part in Research for Increased Physical Activity
College of Medicine researchers Sarah Donkers and Katherine Knox are seeing high recruitment rates for their latest research project -- investigating how people with multiple sclerosis (MS) overcome barriers to stay physically active.
The domino effect
“Something I could discover may lead to someone else to discover another thing and could lead to a revolutionary change in our understanding of a subject…” Prapti Patel shares her insights and inspirations from a summer of research.
Finding a concussion hack in 48 hours
University of Saskatchewan (USask) medical students Richard Ngo and Brandon Spink teamed up with biomedical and mechanical engineering students to win a 48-hour hackathon with their invention that could prevent concussions in sports.
Graduate college awards recognize Indigenous student leadership
University of Saskatchewan (USask) Indigenous students Indiana Best and Cindy Deschenes have been awarded $20,000 each by the College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (CGPS) to honour their leadership in the areas of public health and mental health.
Thinking and working on a global scale
The time Claire Roberts Lamont spent within the Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (CH&E) helped launch her global health career path at the United Nations.
Nutrien Chair to lead improved cancer diagnosis and image-guided surgeries
University of Saskatchewan (Usask) medical researcher Dr. Ron Geyer (PhD) has been named the Nutrien Chair in Clinical Research to lead a cutting-edge five-year research program with potential to transform cancer care.
New Indigenous Health and Wellness team to support health needs in First Nations and Métis communities
A new research group aims to change the narrative around Indigenous health and wellness by giving a stronger voice to Indigenous people.
Building Capacity for Rural and Remote Dementia Care
Maybe she’s been having trouble finding the right words or managing bills; or her normally cheerful disposition has been replaced by someone who is often confused and easily upset. These early signs that something may be wrong trigger a trip to your local family doctor or nurse practitioner.
New program opens doors for student start-ups
A University of Saskatchewan student entrepreneur team has applied to incorporate as a business to commercialize a new medical oral airway device that could help save patient lives.
Keynote speaker credits CH&E as catalyst for current success
Data scientist Liyan Liu credits the Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (CH&E) with giving her the education and confidence she needed to get to where she is today.
Medical student receives Canadian Medical Hall of Fame Award
A University of Saskatchewan (USask) medical student is among 17 individuals who are part of a new generation of health leaders and innovators.
7 Tips for a Successful Year in Medical School
As the morning air on my walk to school becomes a hint cooler, it rings in the promise of a new school year. Reflecting on the past 365 days, I realise how far I’ve come on a journey that has challenged me more than anything else in my life.
CFI awards USask researchers $1.3M for new tools to advance health, environment and the economy
SASKATOON — Eight University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers have been awarded $1.3 million by the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) for state-of-the-art equipment to support leading-edge projects in human health, food security, environmental protection, public safety and computer technology.
USask researchers looking to help transgender patients
A University of Saskatchewan (USask)-led research team is looking to make navigating the health-care system easier for transgender people in Saskatchewan.
USask medical team receives $987,000 to test new imaging agents for improved cancer diagnosis
A University of Saskatchewan medical research team will receive $987,000 from Western Economic Diversification (WD) towards a $4.55-million project aimed at producing and testing new imaging agents for diagnosing lung and colorectal cancers in humans.
USask medical team receives $987,000 to test new imaging agents for improved cancer diagnosis
A University of Saskatchewan medical research team will receive $987,000 from Western Economic Diversification (WD) towards a $4.55-million project aimed at producing and testing new imaging agents for diagnosing lung and colorectal cancers in humans.
Pursuing a passion for medicine and education
Becoming a doctor was a career path that Dr. Rashmi Bhargava’s (MD’91) father suggested.
Indigenous-led research centre to address HIV among First Nations, Inuit and Métis
The rise in HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among Indigenous people in Saskatchewan and Manitoba is to be addressed by a new $2.9-million Indigenous-led research centre to close gaps in prevention and care.
How Dillon Taught Me that Building Community is a Clinical Skill
It is hot! I feel the sweat rolling down my face and arms as I try not to think about how hard it is to breathe.
USask researchers receive $1.18 million in SHRF establishment grants
Seven College of Medicine researchers have received SHRF establishment grants, which are designed to assist them establish health research programs in the province.
Celebrating Sharma’s record of research
When University of Saskatchewan (USask) researcher Dr. Rajendra Sharma (PhD, DSc) received the Saskatchewan Order of Merit in 2004, he thought back to one of the biggest supporters in his scientific career: his father.
USask medicine student is travelling Canada in hopes of improving Saskatchewan’s health services
College of Medicine student Kaishan Aravinthan is looking for ways to improve Saskatchewan’s hospitals. Thanks to the support of donors, he’s hopeful his research will help people across the province.
Reflecting on the PREP program
As the month of June came to a close, so too did my time in the PREP program.
Cannabis dosage studied at USask to reduce seizures in children with severe epilepsy
Medicinal cannabis oil containing both cannabidiol (CBD) and a small amount of THC (the drug that can cause intoxication) can reduce or end seizures in children with severe, drug-resistant epilepsy, a study by the University of Saskatchewan (USask) has found.
Physical therapy students earn national award for successful online Shinerama campaign
When three master of physical therapy (MPT) students volunteered to work on the Shinerama campaign in 2018, their main goal was to revamp the social media campaign.
New national Indigenous health research plan prioritizes Indigenous-led agenda
Supporting Indigenous individuals and their communities to drive Indigenous health research is a key goal of the new five-year plan of the national Institute of Indigenous Peoples’ Health (IIPH), a Canadian Institutes of Health Research institute based at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).
PREP Part II: My textbook is now my real patient
The past two weeks have proved to be very interesting here in Lanigan. I have been working with Dr. Akinjobi, a Nigerian-trained doctor who has worked in South Africa, England, and Australia.
$6 million awarded for Canada Research Chairs at USask
SASKATOON – Three new Canada Research Chairs (CRCs)—all held by female academics recognized as potential leaders in their fields—have been established at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) to carry out innovative research into air quality in cold climates, enhancing Indigenous health and well-being, and preventing cyberattacks.
Role models for queer youth are key
In celebration of the upcoming Saskatoon Pride Festival, Stéphanie Madill, assistant professor of physical therapy, talks about progress made and the importance of queer youth having role models.
PRISM: Pre-clerkship Introductions to Specialities in Medicine
All medical students get asked the coveted question in medical school, ”So, do you know what you want to be when you grow up?” It's a question many students find difficult to answer.
Approaches to conflict resolution, student mental health part of medical education day
It was the first time the Medical Education Research and Scholarship Day (MERSD) was held at the College of Medicine Learning Centre campus in Regina.
Researchers celebrate tri-council funding successes
Thirteen researchers within the College of Medicine have successfully received project grants from across the Tri-Council agencies — Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) and Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).
Prepping for PREP
Ah yes! The summer between second- and third-year medical school. Often spoken about between classmates as if we are part of a Shakespeare story – the last summer.
New interim provincial head for pediatrics
SASKATOON - Highly regarded physician and medical educator Dr. Ron Siemens, MD, FRCPC, FAAP, has been selected as the interim provincial head of pediatrics beginning June 3, 2019 for a one-year term.
Indigenous Wellness program receives national recognition for ingenuity and innovation
An online course designed to help shed light on Indigenous experiences with the health care system is being recognized on a national scale.
Concussion symptoms reversed by magnetic therapy
Concussion symptoms—such as loss of balance, hazy comprehension, sleep disturbance and ability to walk straight—can be reversed by a new type of magnetic stimulation, research at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) shows.
From music to medicine
University of Saskatchewan (USask) student Devynn McIntyre is interested in the arts and the sciences.
Physiology and pharmacology student to receive three convocation awards
When Jacques Laniece found out he would receive three top prizes during the upcoming University of Saskatchewan (Usask) convocation, he felt “completely overwhelmed with joy, pride and excitement.”
Easing the Journey to an Epilepsy Diagnosis
How one research team is taking an innovative approach to develop an epilepsy clinic using Telehealth and a portable EEG machine.
USask Respiratory Research Centre engages and informs Saskatchewan families
SASKATOON – Patients with asthma and lung cancer had the opportunity to connect with researchers and clinicians specializing in respiratory illness during an inaugural event by the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) Respiratory Research Centre (RRC).
CoM faculty demonstrate 'exceptional skill’ in resident education
Six faculty members have been selected to receive Excellence in Teaching Awards from the Resident Doctors of Saskatchewan (RDoS).
SHRF, CABHI announce $300,000 in funding for aging, brain health projects
Five health research projects funded to accelerate Saskatchewan aging and brain health innovations
College staff to learn about Indigenous stories and experiences with health care system
College of Medicine personnel are now taking part in an online course to learn about creating a culturally safe environment for Indigenous people.
CPTE program director recognized as provincial leader in physiotherapy
Dr. Stacey Lovo Grona (PhD) was surprised when she learned she was being recognized for her work as program director for Continuing Physical Therapy Education (CPTE).
USask scholars win prestigious national awards
Three outstanding University of Saskatchewan (Usask) researchers have been awarded Vanier and Banting scholarships and fellowships totaling $430,000 for research that will advance regenerative medicine and improve water quality and mental health.
USask employee raising awareness about inflammatory bowel disease
As a research technician at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) Cell Signalling Laboratory, Ryan Heistad’s work is focused on Alzheimer’s disease.
La Ronge rural family physician Dr. Sean Groves named 2019 SMA Physician of the Year
Dr. Sean Groves (MD) has been selected as the Saskatchewan Medical Association (SMA) 2019 Physician of the Year.
Ambulances support USask Mozambique project
For expectant mothers in the African country of Mozambique, reaching medical services could mean walking up to 15 kilometres over sandy and difficult terrain.
Clinical Trial Support Unit celebrates 25 years with silver jubilee bash
For the past 25 years, the Clinical Trial Support Unit (CTSU) has served the research community in Saskatchewan as the go-to resource that helps clinical research projects get off the ground and run smoothly.
Viral infections during pregnancy could be linked to behavioural abnormalities in offspring
SASKATOON – Male and female rats whose mother experienced a simulated viral infection during pregnancy behave abnormally, consistent with behavioural alterations in autism or schizophrenia, research by the University of Saskatchewan (USask) shows.
SHRF and The Lung Association, Saskatchewan Commit $1M to Respiratory Research Funding
When you can’t breathe, nothing else matters. That’s why two of Saskatchewan’s leading health research funding organizations are looking to the future with a long-term investment of $1 million over five years.
Faster, more accurate diagnoses: Healthcare applications of AI research
When Google DeepMind’s AlphaGo shockingly defeated legendary Go player Lee Sedol in 2016, the terms artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and deep learning were propelled into the technological mainstream.
Culturally safe, positive, empowering birth
Saskatchewan mothers shaping research aimed at improving the birthing experiences of Indigenous women
Dr. Vicki Holmes: A career of caring
Dr. Vicki Holmes (MD'73) is now retired from her medical career and is taking advantage of her free time by spending it with family, golfing and painting. Although she describes her retirement life as “nothing exceptional,” her 43-year career was just the opposite.
Family medicine resident receives leadership award
Second-year resident Dr. Mira Pavan has been named the recipient of the 2019 Society of Rural Physicians of Canada (SRPC) Resident Leadership Award.
Microbiologist refocuses research on the practice of teaching
Faculty across the University of Saskatchewan (USask) are working together to publish research on teaching.
Medical students take research projects to Belgium
Hallo! (“hello” in Dutch, not just a major typo) Our names are Hope Fast and Cadence MacPherson and we are second-year medical students at the University of Saskatchewan.
PULSE: Peers share knowledge and give back in new mentorship program
The realization that students at different points in their medical training have a great deal to teach each other, and learn from each other, led Adam Neufeld to develop an innovative project designed not only to connect students in the U of S College of Medicine but ultimately, to improve patient care wherever they end up practicing.
Aboriginal Achievement: Award winner hopes to make a difference in her community
Medical student Annette Pegg grew up on Kawacatoose First Nation and in inner-city Regina where she witnessed abuse, addictions and intergenerational trauma. Her experiences have strengthened her resolve as a physician and an advocate.
Health care team eases access to care for kids in La Ronge
There’s one thing Dr. Pat Blakley always does before she travels to La Ronge.
USask study on opioid use offers solutions
SASKATOON – Better coordination of existing services, a one-stop shop with supervised consumption, and a crisis response plan paired with a long-term provincial strategy are all needed in the fight against opioid addiction in Saskatoon.
Shooting cancer’s messenger: new USask therapy disrupts communication inside malignant cells
SASKATOON – A new breast-cancer treatment which shoots the messenger within cancer cells and halts the growth of tumours is being developed at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).
Reading software saves students from stumbling over medical terminology
Reading is one requirement for studying that is nearly universal for all students. Sometimes students need alternative ways to remember that information.
Medical hall calls on Dr. Dosman
Though he’s known as the “father of agricultural medicine,” Dr. James Dosman (MD) didn’t have rural health care in mind when he started his career in medicine.
Medical students reflect on advocacy and giving back
One Day for Students is the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) annual day of giving, where the campus community, alumni, donors and friends are invited to make a special donation that can help students overcome hurdles to their educational goals.
USask researcher creates new medical imaging technology
SASKATOON – As health care has evolved, medical imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds and MRIs have become increasingly important for diagnosis and treatment of patients. Through these imaging studies, health care professionals can learn how diseases are manifest to improve patient care.
CoM researcher looks to collaborate on metabolic and neuroscience research
When Dr. Scott Widenmaier (PhD) accepted his faculty appointment at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), he anticipated working with the strong network of neuroscientists on campus.
Rehab dogs help children with cerebral palsy walk
Dogs can help children with cerebral palsy walk and gain self-confidence and independence, according to new research by the University of Saskatchewan (USask).
Engaging learners a key part of SASKSONO19
Ahead of the upcoming SASKSONO19 conference, clinicians, medical students and residents are preparing for the fundamental sessions – with the emphasis on fun.
Day of Action for Seniors Care and Aging: Behind the Scenes (Part 2)
On Feb. 4, medical students from across Canada gathered in Ottawa to lobby the government for a coordinated response and plan to seniors care and aging during the Canadian Federation of Medical Students Day of Action.
Colorectal cancer cells killed by ‘assassin’ antibody, USask team finds
A novel treatment for advanced colorectal cancer—using a radioactive antibody that attaches to cancer cells and kills them—is being developed by researchers at the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Medicine.
USask researchers awarded $4.9 million for Indigenous health research, HIV and cancer
Six College of Medicine (CoM) researchers with projects focusing on cancer, HIV and Indigenous health have received $4.85 million from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).
CoM physician selected as ‘Educator of the Year’
Dr. Paul Olszynski (MD) has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to ultrasound education for residents in Saskatchewan and across the country.
College of Medicine employee recognized for outstanding research expertise
College of Medicine (CoM) research facilitator Dr. Bruna Bonavia-Fisher (PhD) has been selected as the recipient of the 2018 Sydney Inskip Award.
National Day of Action for Seniors Care and Aging: Behind the Scenes (Part 1)
Since the beginning of November, over a dozen medical students from across the country were working to prepare the research and documentation on seniors care and aging used for the Canadian Federation of Medical Students Day of Action, which took place on Feb. 4.