Online Learning Module

Since the release of the Canadian Guidelines on Parkinson’s Disease in 2012, more than 75,000 health professionals in Canada have been introduced to this resource to better diagnose and treat their Parkinson’s patients. Now, there are even more tools created specifically for doctors to improve the effectiveness of the guidelines. Parkinson Society Canada has developed online learning modules that will lead doctors through a virtual patient assessment as a companion resource to the complete guidelines, executive summary and quick reference tools.

Content from the online learning module was presented during a professional development workshop at the Family Medicine Forum (FMF) in November 2013. The Family Medicine Forum is Canada’s largest and most comprehensive annual conference that highlights the important role family physicians play in maintaining the health and well-being of Canadians of all ages.

Doctors attending the forum participated in an interactive session which directly mirrored the virtual patient scenario that will be used online. Feedback from these family doctors was incorporated into the final release of the online learning module, which comes out in April 2014.

This online learning module, delivered in English and French, focuses on commonly known motor symptoms of Parkinson’s, as well as managing the non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s, now recognized as a major component of the disease and are the symptoms that patients report most adversely affect their quality of life.

The modules will be accessible through Parkinson Society Canada’s website for health professionals at parkinsonclinicalguidelines.ca shortly. Although these courses are geared towards health care professionals, anyone with an interest can use the resource to become more informed.

The first Canadian Guidelines on Parkinson’s Disease Online Learning Module was developed by Parkinson Society Canada with input from the Medical Advisory Committee which includes neurologists, movement disorder specialists and family doctors.  Parkinson Society Canada plans to expand its online library again in 2015.

Another education opportunity for family physicians in Canada is a series of webinars led by Canadian Parkinson’s experts. This four-part webinar series is made possible through an unrestricted education grant provided by UCB Canada. Advanced registration online is required. For more information on the Canadian Guidelines on Parkinson’s Disease and other online resources for health professionals, visit parkinsonclinicalguidelines.ca or contact Grace Ferrari, Manager, Education & National Programs at grace.ferrari@parkinson.ca.