Family health practitioners in Kingston and the region will be able to get an inside look at what Queen’s University has to offer as the Faculty of Health Sciences hosts the third annual Department of Medicine Day on May 11 as part of its commitment to continuing medical education (CME).

This full-day educational event presents an opportunity for networking with the numerous researchers in the Queen’s School of Medicine. Attendees will have the opportunity to sit in on a wide range of talks on cutting-edge research, for example in dermatology, blood pressure monitoring and stem cell therapy.

The Department of Medicine Day is an opportunity to reach out to the family physicians in the greater Kingston community and inform them on new techniques and clinical programs as well as how to refer patients to the various divisions within the Department of Medicine. 

“My experience wherever I’ve been is that the relationship between community and academia is the key to helping all of us provide the best patient care possible,” says Dr. Stephen Archer, Head of the Department of Medicine.

“That is why we have an active CME program, as it helps to facilitate the relationships between our specialists and the primary care community. So I think it’s a great way to build collegiality. Not to mention, why travel all the way to Toronto or Ottawa to get your CME when you can do so right here at Queen’s in Kingston. Family doctors who are in attendance never fail to comment how convenient it is to stay right here in Kingston for their CME.”

Planning for this year’s program began shortly after last year’s Department of Medicine Day, with organizers taking feedback from attendees on the kind of content they want to see. This year’s event will be even more interactive with more practical and case-based presentations than previous years; allowing more opportunities for questions and discussions. Workshops will also make up a larger portion of this year’s event, in response to calls for more hands-on learning opportunities.

Over 25 of the department’s members from a dozen medical specialties will deliver sessions, panels and host workshops, providing attendees with the opportunity to learn about new therapies and diagnostic tools for common medical problems. A highlight of the day includes a presentation on medical marijuana, physician-assisted suicide and  seniors' care by the Past President of the Canadian Medical Association, Dr. Chris Simpson. 

The day will also feature a research showcase to look at what’s hot and what’s new in the research world. 

“One of the pleasures of being head of medicine is the opportunity to learn about the exciting research taking place in different specialties,” says Dr. Archer. “I know members of the medical community are going to benefit from learning about the latest developments on a wide range of topics.”

Continuing medical education (CME) is a specific form of continuing education aimed at helping physicians maintain competence and learn about new and developing areas of practice. For more information about Department of Medicine Day and the larger Continuing Professional Development program in the Queen’s Faculty of Health Sciences, please visit the website.