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• There's much to celebrate! See March's and early April's important dates of recognition in our "Community Dates to Know" segment

• Read our feature story on Cardiology's Dr. Ratika Parkash who is revolutionizing cardiac care through a digital health platform for cardiovascular risk management that prioritizes patient empowerment

• Catch up on the latest news featuring members of the Department of Medicine – stories on a groundbreaking cancer research study and first-of-its-kind patient trial, rare-disease treatment and diagnosis, and a new cardiovascular rehabilitation program for Nova Scotians

• Listen to the latest Clinical Currents podcast episode on bone health and osteoporosis with guest Dr. Vicki Munro

• Mark your calendars for our second annual Research, Innovation, and Quality Day – all Department members welcome

• Calling all admins! You're invited to our special Administrative Professionals Celebration on April 22 – see details in our "Events, Deadlines, & Learning Opportunities" segment

• Don't miss the new physician wellness resource in our "Quick Links"

Hello everyone, 

We’re a little later in reaching you this month than usual, and we appreciate your patience. March has been a busy one across the Department, and I’m glad we can still take a moment to connect on a few updates and reflections. 

Earlier this month, Neurodiversity Celebration Week (March 16-20) was recognized globally, and we’re also approaching Autism Awareness Day in April. These are important reminders that the way we work, communicate, and design our environments has a real impact on how people are able to contribute and thrive. Neurodiversity reminds us that a great deal of our diversity can be invisible and, in building a true culture of inclusion, it is important to strive for a department that supports and celebrates all of our members and their unique contributions.  

In practical terms, creating more neurodivergent-friendly workplaces doesn’t require sweeping changes. Often, it’s about small, thoughtful adjustments. These can include sharing agendas and expectations in advance, following up verbal conversations with written summaries, being clear about timelines and decision pathways, and allowing space for thinking time in meetings. In clinical settings, offering written instructions alongside verbal guidance can make a meaningful difference for patients. And more broadly, reducing avoidable sensory stressors and inviting feedback in multiple formats can help ensure more people feel comfortable engaging. 

If you’re interested in learning more, there are some excellent resources available through the Autism Alliance of Canada (The Inclusive Workplace) and Autistica (Employers Guide to Neurodiversity) that offer practical guidance for fostering inclusive workplaces. 

Because this issue is reaching you later in the month, we also missed the opportunity to acknowledge several important holidays in real time. You’ll see them reflected in our “Community Dates to Know” section below, but I’d still like to extend warm wishes to those who recently celebrated Eid-al-Fitr and Nowruz, and to those observing Easter and Passover in the days ahead.  

While these celebrations come from different traditions, they share common themes of renewal, reflection, rebirth (new life), and community. Despite their differing origins, all three observances call us to look back with reflection and forward with intention, emerging from the dark into the light. These themes are so important considering the amount of unrest in our world right now. As we move into the spring, look for and celebrate the good in your communities and take time to be kind, especially to those around you most touched by the current world conflicts. In that same spirit, you’ll also see a short feature at the top of this issue that reflects on the impact of giving in our community, and the difference even small acts of generosity can make. 

Looking ahead, I encourage you to mark your calendars for Research, Innovation, and Quality (RIQ) Day on April 16. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with colleagues, learn about the breadth of work happening across the Department, and see how research and quality improvement are shaping patient care. This month’s spotlight on Dr. Ratika Parkash offers just one example of the calibre of work being done – and RIQ Day brings many of those stories together in one place. 

For our administrative colleagues, please also hold the date for our Administrative Professionals Day Celebration on April 22. We’ll share more details in next month’s issue, but in the meantime, you can find the event flyer in this month’s issue, on SharePoint, and in your Outlook calendar. 

Finally, a brief update on our strategic plan. We’ve now reviewed all feedback and made thoughtful adjustments, and we’re in the final stages of drafting. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share input – your perspectives have directly shaped where we’ve landed. We remain on track for publication later next month, and I’m looking forward to sharing the final version with all of you. 

As always, thank you for the work you do every day. 

Warmly,

Christine

Christine Short, MD, FRCP(C), FACP

Professor & Head/Chief, Department of Medicine

Dalhousie University / Central Zone, Nova Scotia Health

A Special Reminder of the Difference Generosity can Make

Recently, our department received a note from the Brunswick Street Mission after making a donation in memory of a member's loved one. As thanks, the Mission shared a story about someone in our community who relies on their services for food, clothing, and support while navigating a very difficult chapter, and how much their help has meant to them.

What stood out most was how much even a small contribution can matter. It can mean access to a warm meal, a pair of shoes, or simply knowing where to turn for help.

As a department, we’ve built traditions around giving – whether through memorial donations or during the holiday season – and moments like this remind us why that matters. Care doesn’t begin and end in clinical settings; it extends into the communities we serve.

If you’re in a position to give, there are many ways to do so – donating time, clothing, or household items can be just as meaningful as financial contributions. If you’re looking for places to start, organizations like Volunteer Nova Scotia offer directories of local opportunities and causes.

At the same time, we know that not everyone is in a position to give, and that’s okay. The spirit of this work is about care, community, and showing up for one another in whatever ways we can.

World Health Day, April 7

Recognized on April 7, World Health Day is an opportunity to reflect on the broader systems and partnerships that shape health outcomes. In our work, this means continuing to prioritize compassionate care, collaboration, and a commitment to improving health for patients, families, and communities.This also goes beyond our clinical care and includes the research and teaching we do to support and grow the health of our communities. 

Learn more: World Health Day

Research that Empowers Patients

“Heart failure affects over 750,000 Canadians, and Parkash sees it as both a local and national priority. Her research spans device therapy, remote monitoring, and digital health innovations that allow for earlier intervention and better follow-up, which deliver what she describes as 'better care than patients would otherwise receive.'

One of her current focuses is a digital health platform for cardiovascular risk management that prioritizes patient empowerment. 'Instead of a family doctor trying to stay on top of everything, the platform helps patients advocate for their own care,' she explains. 'I really do hope it will provide care uniformly, regardless of where patients live or how they speak. That’s how we save lives.'”

Read the full story in our 2024-2025 annual report, Communities of Care (page 28).

This segment is dedicated to recognizing department members for their recent awards, appointments, and exciting opportunities – just a few among the many who are meaningfully contributing to the Department of Medicine and Canadian healthcare.

Dr. Barna De Appointed Clerkship Director

We’re pleased to share that Dr. Barna De has been appointed Clerkship Director for the Department of Medicine, effective April 1st.

A long-standing member of the department, Dr. De brings deep experience in medical education and student mentorship. We look forward to her leadership in advancing the clerkship program.

We also thank Dr. Nick Forward for his meaningful contributions in the role.

Clinical trials bring new hope and treatments to Nova Scotians - via Nova Scotia Health Innovation Hub

"Nova Scotia Health’s Atlantic Clinical Cancer Research Unit (ACCRU) was recently selected as the first site in Canada to open the Novartis Adjuvant WIDER study, a global clinical trial evaluating whether a medication called ribociclib can lower the risk of early-stage breast cancer returning.

Dr. Ashley Davidson, a Nova Scotia Health oncologist and division head of medical oncology at Dalhousie University, is leading the study.

'The way we increase the cure rates for early-stage breast cancer is by shrinking the number of people who experience a recurrence,' says Dr. Davidson. 'Patients in Nova Scotia are the first in Canada to have the opportunity to participate in this study.'"

Read the full article at: Clinical trials bring new hope and treatments to Nova Scotians | Nova Scotia Health Innovation Hub

When Answers Are Hard to Find: A Rare Disease Q&A with Dr. Luke Chen - via Health Insight

"From years-long diagnostic journeys to breakthrough treatments using existing drugs, Dr. Luke Chen explains how collaboration, persistence, and the next generation of physicians are helping bring clarity—and hope—to patients living with rare diseases."

Read the full article at: When Answers Are Hard to Find: A Rare Disease Q&A with Dr. Luke Chen — Health Insight

Working together for stronger hearts - via Nova Scotia Health News



"REDUCE-IT Cardiovascular Rehabilitation is a cardiovascular prevention, management and rehabilitation program developed by the Division of Cardiology for Nova Scotia Health and Nova Scotians. 

It’s rooted in evidence-based science and informed by Nova Scotia Health’s cardiovascular team, bringing nurse practitioners, dietitians, physiotherapists, registered nurses and other specialists together to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care."

Read the full article at: Working together for stronger hearts | Nova Scotia Health

(Pictured: Hearts & Health in Motion Team with patients)

Save the Date! CPD Webinar on Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Exacerbations, April 30, 12:00 - 1:00 pm

Join us April 30 (12:00-1:00 pm) to learn about recognizing and managing acute ILD exacerbations – serious events associated with high morbidity and mortality that require timely diagnosis and clinical decision-making.

Participants will gain guidance on identifying exacerbations, distinguishing them from other causes of respiratory decline, and applying current approaches to investigation, treatment, and supportive care.

Designed for busy clinicians, this one-hour, hybrid webinar includes interactive discussion and a lively Q&A.

Keep an eye on your inboxes for an invitation and further details!

New Clinical Currents Episode: "Bone Health & Osteoporosis: Guidance for Everyday Practice"

When should you screen for osteoporosis – and what should you do when you find it?

In this episode, hosts Dr. Meredith Chiasson and Dr. Peter Gregory speak with Dr. Vicki Munro about practical approaches to identifying patients at risk for fragility fractures and managing osteoporosis in everyday clinical care.

Dr. Munro explains how clinicians can recognize at-risk patients, when bone density testing is most helpful, and how to interpret risk factors such as glucocorticoid exposure, family history, and comorbid disease. She also reviews current treatment strategies, including when to consider bisphosphonates, anabolic therapies, and referral to specialty care. 

🎧 Listen now at Clinical Currents or wherever you get your podcasts! Each episode can be claimed for 0.5 hours in the Royal College's Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program, Section 2.

Research, Innovation, and Quality Day - April 16, 12:00-5:00 pm



Join us for our second annual Research, Innovation, and Quality (RIQ) Day. This year's theme is "Innovation with Integrity: Navigating Industry and Investigator-Driven Research."

What to expect:

• Poster presentations (including many resident-led projects)
• Podium presentations from across the Department
• Keynote panel on engaging with industry – including strategies, trade-offs, and how to navigate potential conflicts while maintaining integrity
• Opportunities to connect with colleagues and explore current work
• Research and Quality Staff Excellence Awards

Event details:

• April 16 | 12:00-5:00 pm (drop in as your schedule allows)
• Hybrid:
• In person: McInnes Room, Dalhousie Student Union Building
• Virtual: Link will be added to your Outlook calendar invitation closer to the event (Didn't receive it? Email domresearch@nshealth.ca to let us know.)
• Lunch provided for in-person attendees

All Department members are invited to attend – physicians, learners, researchers, and administrative staff alike.

👉 Register for in-person attendance: https://surveys.novascotia.ca/TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=93LMn8340

February

• Natasha Hull, Education Program Assistant, joined the Division of Dermatology on Feb 24

March

• Ivy Alao, Administrative Assistant (long-assignment), joined the Division of Geriatric Medicine on Mar 9
• Dipesh Yadav, Administrative Assistant, joined the Division of Hematology on Mar 16

April

• Dr. Roople Unia officially joins the Division of Neurology effective April 1

May

• Dr. Laura Moeller will be joining the Division of Palliative Medicine effective May 1

Events

Department of Medicine Administrative Professionals Celebration - April 22

In honour of Administrative Professionals Day, all DoM administrative professionals are invited to join us at the Dalhousie Collaborative Health Education Building (CHEB) (Room 170, 5793 University Avenue) for an afternoon of celebration!

Enjoy treats, refreshments, prizes, and thank-you gifts as we recognize the incredible work you do every day — anticipating needs, coordinating the details, and keeping everything running smoothly. We hope you’ll take this time to connect, celebrate, and be celebrated.

Visit our SharePoint events calendar and your Outlook calendars for full details.

Deadlines

Faculty of Medicine Excellence in Leadership Awards - Deadline April 10

These awards recognize the leadership and impact of staff whose work goes far beyond the day-to-day administration, shining a light on the individuals and teams who make our Faculty of Medicine run smoothly across all the Maritimes.The deadline to submit nominations is Friday, April 10, 2026, at 5:00 pm

Academic Promotion – 2026-27 Departmental Application Deadline, May 31

The Department of Medicine is now accepting faculty applications for academic promotion to be considered in the 2026-27 academic year. The departmental deadline for application submission is May 31, 2026. 

Information about the application process and annual info session has been distributed to faculty with continuing academic appointments via email – please contact Heather.Fraser@nshealth.ca if any questions about the process or application document requirements.

More information about promotions at Dalhousie University can be found at: https://medicine.dal.ca/for-faculty-staff/promotion_tenure.html

Learning Opportunities

Department of Medicine

DoM Suggestion Box

Have any suggestions for the department? Leave them anonymously here:

• DoM Suggestion Box

DoM Research

https://sites.google.com/view/domresearch

The page was initially developed for the resident group, but it’s also useful to faculty and their research teams. DoM Research wants to ensure that the link is easily accessible to anyone in the department.

DoM Email Addresses

• grandrounds@nshealth.ca
• domeducation@nshealth.ca
• dom.billing@nshealth.ca
• domresearch@nshealth.ca
• domundergrad@nshealth.ca

Mental Health & Well-Being

Nova Scotia Health Resources

Occupational Health, Safety and Wellness - Home

Physician Resources

Physician Wellness | Information and Wellness Portal

Professional Support Program - NEW

Dalhousie Resources

Student Health and Wellness

Nova Scotia Health

COVID-19 Hub

https://covid19hub.nshealth.ca/new

Shows latest developments for visitation and masking.

Firstline Antimicrobial Stewardship App

https://firstline.org/antimicrobial-stewardship/

https://firstline.org/nsha/

NSH logo needs to be visible in the upper left corner of the home screen to ensure you are accessing local content.

Media Relations Guidelines

The Nova Scotia Health Media Relations Team, led by John Gillis, has shared guidelines for physicians or staff who receive media requests.



All media requests should be vetted through the NSH media relations office.

Additional Websites

Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine

medicine.dal.ca

Doctors Nova Scotia

doctorsns.com

Provincial Goverment News

novascotia.ca/news

Personal Directive - Legal Info Nova Scotia

https://www.legalinfo.org/personaldirective

Fill out online then download/email; once signed and witnessed, it's valid.

We Teach, Research, and Serve our patients on Mi’kmaw territory, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people. The people of the Mi’kmaw Nation have lived on this territory for millennia, and we acknowledge them as the past, present, and future caretakers of this land. We are all Treaty people.



We recognize that African Nova Scotians are a distinct people whose histories, legacies, and contributions have enriched that part of Mi’kma’ki known as Nova Scotia for over 400 years.