What are Nurse Practitioners?

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Nurse practitioners (NPs) are registered nurses who have additional education and nursing experience, which enables them to:

  • Autonomously diagnose and treat illnesses
  • Order and interpret tests
  • Prescribe medications
  • Perform medical procedures

NPs are health-care professionals who treat the whole person, an approach that includes:

  • Addressing needs relating to a person’s physical and mental health
  • Gathering medical history
  • Focusing on how an illness affects a person’s life and family
  • Offering ways for a person to lead a healthy life
  • Teaching persons how to manage chronic illness
2. Questionnaires for medical appointments:
As part of assessing, monitoring and/or adjusting medications, NPs may ask you to complete different questionnaires. These are another assessment tool to help NPs monitor your progression and/or maintenance of your injuries. Further, this is in line with several regulatory organizations such the College of Nurses of Ontario, College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, Health Canada, and so forth. It helps us understand whether the intervention(s) are working (i.e. medical cannabis, topical pain creams, etc).

 

3. Communicating directly with NPs via email, phone, vsee, personal Facebook accounts, Facetime, etc…
We kindly ask you to send any medical questions or concerns to info@abc7445.sg-host.com. Our NPs are seeing many patients throughout the day and may be unable to answer your questions outside of a medical appointment. Please do not contact the NPs outside of medical appointments.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome & Cannabis

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a common and chronic health issue affecting the large intestine and is characterized into three sub-types; IBS with predominant constipation, predominant diarrhea, or a combination of both. Symptoms also include abdominal cramps/pain/bloating, excess gas, and mucus in the stool. Although the precise cause of  IBS is unknown, IBS involves problems with moving digested food through the intestines and how the brain interprets messages from the intestinal nerves, infection, weak intestinal contractions, intestinal inflammation, changes to the gut flora, abnormalities in the intestinal nerves, and so forth.

Triggers can include hormones (women are twice as likely to develop IBS), stress (may aggravate IBS symptoms but is NOT the cause), and food (can be worsened with consumption of dairy products, beans, wheat, citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, etc).

It might be interesting to learn that we have cannabinoid chemicals within our bodies as part of our endocannabinoid system. The system is not perfectly understood, but we know that it consists of cannabinoid receptors and endocannabinoid chemicals.

The receptors are located all throughout our central and peripheral nervous systems, and a large number of them are also located within our digestive system, which has led scientists to investigate ways to use them to help with conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and peptic ulcer disease.

Approximately 18% of Canadians have IBS yet, only about ½ have been diagnosed by their primary care provider (PCP). For many, it can take several years before receiving a definitive diagnosis of IBS. As a result, people may develop and experience mood changes related to anxiety, fatigue, embarrassment, self-consciousness, and depression. In turn, this can lead to interpersonal conflict, limit time spent with family and friends, and negatively affect work performance.

The ROME IV Diagnostic Criteria for IBS is used primarily by PCPs to help with the diagnosis of IBS. Risk factors include family history of IBS, being female, younger than 50 years old, and existing mental health problems. Long term complications can lead to hemorrhoids, diarrhea, chronic constipation, mood disorders, and overall poor quality of life.

If you think you suffer from IBS, and would like to speak with one of our physicians regarding medical cannabis therapy please visit www.abc7445.sg-host.com and fill out the interest form and one of our staff will be in contact with in 24-48 hours.

Additional info:

Canadian Digestive Health Foundation (https://cdhf.ca/)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Self Help and Support Group (https://www.ibsgroup.org/)

The Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20360016)

Mount Sinai Hospital Toronto (http://www.mountsinai.on.ca/care/fammed/patient-resources/nutrition/irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs.pdf/view)

National institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome)

https://www.verywellhealth.com/medical-marijuana-for-ibs-4115436

Covid & Cannabis

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With Covid-19 sweeping the world, it has changed the way we live and do business.  There are many companies and intelligent minds working towards a solution.  There may however be a solution in cannabis, researchers at the University of Lethbridge, along with their partners, have found that specific cannabis sativa extracts are showing promise as an additional treatment for COVID-19.

Specifically the cannabinoid they are looking at is CBD, short for cannabidiol.  CBD has gained huge ground in the de-stigmatizing of cannabis with CBD in beauty products, skin care products, food, and even sex lube.  CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found on the cannabis & hemp plant.

CBD imparts a feeling of relaxation and calm. Unlike its cousin, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the major active ingredient in marijuana, CBD is not psychoactive.

“Given the current dire and rapidly developing epidemiological situation, every possible therapeutic opportunity and avenue needs to be considered,” says Kovalchuk. “Our research team is actively pursuing partnerships to conduct clinical trials.”

Also, a new Israeli study at Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv will examine the impact of cannabis on Coronavirus (COVID-19) patients.

The new study is investigating whether one of the active substances in cannabis, cannabidiol, can slow down the inflammatory process that accompanies the deterioration of severe Coronavirus patients and alleviate the symptoms of the disease.

While CBD has been known to help with back pain, osteoarthritis, and even cancer, it will remain to be seen if it will be a good defender against Covid-19.  We certainly hope so, and if you want to learn more about medical cannabis as a therapy please fill out the “Interest Form“.

 

Sources:

CEO Covid-19 Update

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CEO Covid-19 Update

Hello Spartan Wellness Community,

Hello Spartan Wellness Community,
The COVID-19 (the coronavirus) virus is affecting thousands of people and their families – first and foremost our thoughts are with those who are personally impacted. As COVID-19 continues to impact the Canadian community, I want to personally update you on the steps Spartan Wellness has taken to ensure service continuity for all our current and new patients.
We are focused on ensuring both the health and safety of our employees, volunteers, and patients as well as service continuity. We are equipped to maintain the high-quality patient service you have come to expect from us. Our care-giver support team is here to assist.
As a precaution, we have implemented an essential-only travel policy. We have improved our already strong virtual clinic model so employees, volunteers and patients can leverage technology and conduct internal and external meetings and patients’ engagements virtually. We have also made the tough, but prudent, decision to postpone our physical participation in all events across Canada until further notice.
This is an unprecedented time for everyone, and the situation is changing daily. Spartan Wellness is committed to ensuring you continue to receive the highest quality service without disruption. We are here to help you through these times, because

“Great Things happen Together”

Thank you,

Riad Byne CD, BBA
Co-Founder & CEO Spartan Wellness

Stay Safe, Keep Connected

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At Spartan Wellness we understand that with social distancing being a priority during COVID19 pandemic,  it can be difficult to be away from family this long weekend.
We have put together a list of free virtual screen sharing software programs that will allow you to connect with love ones across the globe.

 

Zoom – Zoom is a great conference tool for business and is also a great way to connect with family and friends around the globe. It is free to sign up and invite guests.  Zoom provides a remote conferencing service that combines video conferencing, online meetings, chat, and mobile collaboration.

 

Google Hangouts –  Google Hangouts bring conversations to life with photos, emoji, and even group video calls for free. Connect with friends across computers, Android, and Apple devices.  Google Hangouts is a communication software product developed by Google.

 

Instagram – Instagram has the feature to “go live” and you broadcast on the spot or it has private messages where you can have a multiple person conversation.  Now, you can video chat in Instagram Direct, either with just one person or a group. Video chat gives you the experience of realtime video in a private space and helps you feel close and connected to friends when you can’t be together. Your friends are already on Instagram, and with video chat, you can seamlessly connect across iOS and Android and without a phone number.

 

Facetime – All Apple products come with Facetime.  FaceTime is available on supported iOS mobile devices and Macintosh computers that run Mac OS X 10.6.6 and later.

 

Messenger – Facebook Messenger add on or standalone, easily connect with facebook friends and family. You can even add guests during a call.  Users can send messages and exchange photos, videos, stickers, audio, and files, as well as react to other users’ messages and interact with bots. The service also supports voice and video calling. The standalone apps support using multiple accounts, conversations with optional end-to-end encryption, and playing games.

 

Skype – Skype has been around for a while and is full of great features helping you connect around the world with loved ones.  Skype is a telecommunications application that specializes in providing video chat and voice calls between computers, tablets, mobile devices, the Xbox One console, and smartwatches over the Internet.

 

If you are interested in learning how Spartan Wellness can help you with medical cannabis and our transitional medical services please Contact Us today.

 

#greatthingshappentogether
Pulling For Veterans

Pulling For Veterans

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pulling for veteransWhen Dave Drumm was approached to help create an event at the Bowmanville Legion, he got right to work creating –

 

“Pulling For Veterans”  The 1st Annual Armwrestling Fundraiser

 

Bowmanville Legion Branch 178
Saturday February 22nd, 2020 – 1:00pm (Weigh in starts 10am)
Dave not only wanted create an event to help raise awareness for his local Legion but to also help homeless Veterans.  All proceeds from “Pulling For Veterans” will be donated to the Joe Sweeney Fund.  The fund was created to to ensure that at risk Veterans have suitable housing and/or the support services they require to remain permanently housed and with a stable future.
The event is not just for fun either, this is a sanctioned event by the Ontario Armwrestling Association.  There will be over 150 armwrestlers in attendance with an amatuer and pro class.  Armwrestlers from all over Ontario will be in attendance for this fundraiser.
“If there is one thing that Veterans do exceptionally well at, it’s supporting other Veterans!!” -Riad Byne, Spartan Wellness

 

The categories include

Right & Left Mens

  • 0-165 lbs
  • 166-198 lbs
  • 199-232 lbs
  • 233 lbs+

Womens

  • 0-154 lbs
  • 155 lbs+

There will also be a First Responders class, also a Men’s & Women’s open right handed classes going on as well.  There will be tropies for the amatuer class, cash prizes, cash prizes, giveaways, 50/50 draws and every entry gets a ticket for one of six $100 gift cards!!

Entry fees are due at the door and they are as follows:

  • Amatuer $25 per arm
  • Open Class $40 per arm
  • First Responders $20

Spartan Wellness believes in helping Veterans and their community initiatives which is why we are proud to be collaborating with and sponsoring this amazing event.

LP Compassionate / Disability Pricing Requirements

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Choosing a licenced Producer of cannabis can be difficult, there are hundreds of them, all making different products, growing different strains, and can be especially hard if you are on a low income or on disability.  We here at Spartan Wellness care about your choices and we are here to help you with all of the information we have.

We asked LP’s in Canada what types of programs they had for people on low income and what is required to be on such program.

If you are interested in becoming a medical cannabis patient or want more information on these programs please visit Spartan Wellness to fill out the interest form.

Below for a detailed breakdown of the discount programs offered by some of Canada’s most well established LPs.

 

Aurora Cannabis

  • Eligibility:

Individuals making less than $30k/year

  • Documents Required:

Notice of Assessment from CRA or proof of low income

  • Compassionate Rate:

30% off your order

 

Aphria

  • Eligibility:

Anyone that has an income lower than 30K

  • Documents Required:

Aphria Compassionate Pricing Application form, available at aphria.ca and can be submitted to Aphria via email or fax

  • Compassionate Rate:

10% off on all products except for accessories and growers blend

 

Canna Farms

  • Eligibility:

Individuals making less than $28k/year

  • Documents Required:

Proof of financial status, via CRA Notice of Assessment

  • Compassionate Rate:

Low Income = 25% off your order

 

CanniMed

  • Eligibility:

Government Assistance/Disability

  • Documents Required:

Proof of Federal or Provincial assistance program

  • Compassionate Rate:

25% off your order

 

Delta 9

  • Eligibility:

Individuals making less than $30k/year

  • Documents Required:

Notice of Assessment from CRA or proof of low income

  • Compassionate Rate:

$5.75/gram or less

 

Emblem Cannabis

  • Eligibility:

Individuals making less than $30k/year

Government Assistance/Disability

  • Documents Required:

Notice of Assessment from CRA or proof of low income

Proof of Federal or Provincial assistance program

  • Compassionate Rate:

20% off your order

 

Medreleaf

  • Eligibility:

Individuals making less than $24k/year

Government Assistance/Disability

  • Documents Required:

Notice of Assessment from CRA or proof of low income

Proof of Federal or Provincial assistance program

  • Compassionate Rate:

25% off your order

 

Organigram

  • Eligibility:

Individuals making less than $35k/year

Government Assistance/Disability

  • Documents Required:

Proof of financial status, via CRA Notice of Assessment

Proof of Federal or Provincial assistance program

  • Compassionate Rate:

30% off your order

 

Tilray

  • Eligibility:

Individuals making less than $32,500/year

  • Documents Required:

Proof of financial status, via CRA Notice of Assessment

  • Compassionate Rate:

25% off your order

 

Spectrum Therapeutics

  • Eligibility:

Individuals making less than $29k/year

Government Assistance/Disability

  • Documents Required:

Proof of financial status, via CRA Notice of Assessment

Proof of Federal or Provincial assistance program

  • Compassionate Rate:

20% off your order

 

WeedMD

  • Eligibility:

Individuals making less than $28k/year

Government Assistance/Disability

  • Documents Required:

Proof of financial status, via CRA Notice of Assessment

Proof of Federal or Provincial assistance program

  • Compassionate Rate:

20% off your order

Career and Education Fair for Veterans, CAF Members and Their Families

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Career and Education Fair for Veterans, CAF Members and Their Families

Did you know that almost 90% of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members look for civilian employment after they release from the military?

Gainful employment and satisfaction in the workplace can ease some of the stressors facing Veterans and families during the transition from military to civilian life.

VAC is committed to helping Veterans and their families transition to meaningful careers in civilian life. As part of this commitment we are hosting a Career and Education Fair in Calgary, Alberta at Ross Glenn Hall at the Mount Royal University campus on January 24, 2020 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The fair will be a tradeshow style event with booths for employers, educational institutions, volunteer organizations and other VAC partners. Some employers may be hiring on site at the fair so bringing an up-to-date resume is encouraged. We will also have a variety of workshops, activities and presentations throughout the day, including topics such as applying for federal government jobs, VAC services and benefits, and entrepreneurship.

For more information, please visit veterans.gc.ca/fair or contact vac.infovacfair-infofoireacc.acc@canada.ca.

We encourage you to pass this along to anyone who may be interested.

Sincerely,

Stakeholder Engagement and Outreach Team

Veterans Affairs Canada

vac.engagement.acc@canada.ca

Living Mindfully: Promoting Connection and Mental Wellness for the Military Community

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Living Mindfully: Promoting Connection and Mental Wellness for the Military Community

Living MindfullyThis series of nine workshops offered by the Southwestern Ontario Military Family Resource Centre – Hamilton Satellite office in partnership with OSISS (Operational Stress Injury Social Support) program have been created to promote connection and education within the military and veteran community. Being open to new experiences and knowledge, can teach participants how to live mindfully and in turn, find that balance between holding on and letting go. Please join us on this journey to move your life forward in a better way.

 

Living Mindfully: Promoting Connection and Mental Wellness for the Military Community has been kindly sponsored by the Royal Canadian Legion.

 

Series # 4 – Education

What: Understanding Medical Cannabis Basics and Awareness

This workshop increases understanding of cannabis, the potential health effects, and “Canada’s Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines” which are designed for harm reduction.
Several clinicians from the DeGroot Pain Clinic will be providing information and a Q&A; as well as Amy Doelman, BA, MPH, Manager from PSP – Health Promotions.

When: Saturday January 18, 2020

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Where: Royal Canadian Legion, Branch # 622
12 King Street East, Stoney Creek, ON

Cost: Free with catered lunch provided

RSVP: Donna Pickering

PROGRAM COORDINATOR, HAMILTON SATELLITE OFFICE
SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO MILITARY FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE
905-972-4000 ext. 6623 — CSN: 625-6623

Donna.Pickering@forces.gc.ca

Who: Eligible participants would include currently serving, retired, medically releasing Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans and their adult military family members.
18 +

Donna Pickering

COORDONNATEUR DE PROGRAMME, BUREAU SATELLITE DE HAMILTON
CENTRE DE RESSOURCES POUR LES FAMILLES DES MILITARES DU SUD-OUEST DE L’ONTARIO
Donna.Pickering@forces.gc.ca<mailto:Donna.Pickering@forces.gc.ca> / TEL: 905-972-4000 X 6623 / CSN: 625-6623

WWW.CAFCONNECTION.CA<http://www.cafconnection.ca/>

If you have a Military Family emergency outside of Military Family Resource Centre office hours, please contact the Military Family Information Line at 1-800-866-4546.