Community Health Connect  is the Calgary West Central Primary Care Network's newsletter dedicated to providing members of our community with the latest healthcare information.

In this issue:

• Our community at a glance: Understanding patient needs for better health 
• World Suicide Prevention Day
• A healthy new season starts now

Our community at a glance: Understanding patient needs for better health

What does our community look like? What do people need to help them live their healthiest and best lives? 

Understanding who our patients are and what they need helps to shape our programs and services and keep our community healthy! By looking at data related to our patients, we can identify gaps in care and make sure they have the programs and services they need.

Our community at a glance:

• 317,532 total CWC PCN patients
• 5.3 average number of visits (per person) to a family physician per year
• 69.8 per cent of patients have received preventive cancer screening

 Top four health concerns of our patients: 

1. Asthma affects 13 per cent
2. Hypertension affects 12 per cent
3. Diabetes affects 7 per cent
4. Coronary artery disease affects 5 per cent 

*Data source: Health Quality Council of Alberta (March 31, 2023)

Our patient population is diverse, spanning various age groups and backgrounds. This diversity requires us to tailor our programs and services to meet the unique needs across our community.

Our goal is to provide patients with team-based care from our Primary Care Centre and our regulated health professionals in partnership with family doctors. If your doctor is one of our members, they may refer you to our clinic or to our regulated health professionals.   

World Suicide Prevention Day

Mental health is often misunderstood and can be challenging to talk about, but today on World Suicide Prevention Day, it is crucial to remember that help is available.

Call 988 if you are thinking about suicide or are worried about someone else.

988 is the number Canadians can call or text for  immediate suicide prevention and crisis support.  Funded by the Government of Canada and led by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 988 is:

• Available by phone and text
• Provided in English and French
• Accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week

 988: Suicide Crisis Helpline  is a free service for anyone who is thinking about suicide, in emotional distress, or who is worried about someone they know. Crisis responders can help explore ways to create safety when things are feeling overwhelming.

A healthy new season starts now

As summer slips away on us for yet another year, we find ourselves on the brink of what many call “cold and flu season.” With students back in the class and temperatures dropping, it’s essential to prepare our bodies to fend off common illnesses that may arise.

Our immune system acts as our body’s natural defense mechanism, fighting infections and keeping us healthy. Just like any other part of our body, it requires proper care and attention.

 How can we enhance our immune health? 

While there is no magic pill to boost your immune system, practicing daily healthy habits can help you stay healthy throughout the season.

Healthy practices:

• Avoid touching your face: Germs can easily enter your body through your nose, eyes, and mouth; minimizing face-touching can reduce the risk of infection.
• Eat healthy foods: Choose vegetables, fruits, whole grain foods, and protein.
• Manage stress: Try meditation or deep breathing exercises to help.

By adopting some of these healthy practices, you can help ensure that your immune system is ready to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season.

If you have feedback on any health topics you would like to learn or read more about, please contact us directly at hello@cwcpcn.com.

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