May 16, 2012 - Saint John, NB - Physicians in Atlantic Canada now have access to online courses in occupational medicine thanks to a strategice alliance between WorkSafeNB, the Workers' Compensation Boards of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island and Dalhousie University.
“With no academic programs in occupational medicine east of Toronto, this alliance, combined with the establishment of a research chair in occupational medicine at Dalhousie University’s medical school in Saint John, will help ensure best practices in disability management and return to work,” said Sharon Tucker, chairperson of WorkSafeNB’s board of directors, who spoke on behalf of the three Maritime provinces’ compensation boards.
The Maritime Occupational Medicine Continuing Medical Education (MOM CME) Alliance will provide courses not only to physicians, but also to all stakeholders with a vested interest in occupational medicine, including occupational therapists, physiotherapists, case managers, workers and employers. Because they are web-based, they can be conveniently accessed at any time.
“This important initiative will help prevent occupational injuries and illness, break down the barriers of return to work, and keep injured workers employable so they can enjoy the quality of life they deserve,” Tucker said.
The courses will be funded by the three Maritime worker compensation boards, while Dalhousie Continuing Medical Education will develop, host and maintain the courses on its website. The courses are accredited, providing CME credits for family physicians in the Maritime provinces. The first course, which deals with issues around prescribing time off is expected to be available later in the fall. While it is the first jointly developed course, it is the ninth course sponsored by the Alliance, with the eight other courses developed by WorkSafeNB’s Dr. Eric Gozna.
Media Contacts:
Beverly Stears, Acting Manager, Communications
WorkSafeNB
506-632-2828
Julie Trites, Communications Advisor
Workers’ Compensation Board of Nova Scotia
902-491-8110
Bonnie Blakney, Director, Corporate Development
Workers Compensation Board of PEI
902-620-3478