At A Glance - April 2013
Highlights: [201 KB PDF]
· Targeting general hospitals may increase deceased donor organ supply in Ontario
· Prescribing of prolonged antibiotic therapy common for long-term care residents
· Study identifies predictors of positive outcomes from hip and knee replacements
· Use of heart imaging test increasing steadily in Ontario
· Higher strength statins linked to increased risk of kidney damage
At A Glance - March 2013
Highlights: [109 KB PDF]
· Seniors with rheumatoid arthritis at increased risk of serious infections
· Only 1 in 5 Ontarians with newly diagnosed diabetes attends a diabetes education program
· Low job control linked to increased incidence of hypertension in men
· One in 4 Ontario hospital visits made by people with chronic lung disease
· Political factors can shape prescription drug funding decisions
At A Glance - February 2013
Highlights: [105 KB PDF]
· Heart failure clinics associated with decreased mortality but increased rehospitalizations
· ED treatment often substituted for primary care for persons with spinal cord injuries
· Older men at greater risk of hospitalization and death after starting new antipsychotic drugs
· Higher income patients only marginally advantaged in post-hospitalization stroke care
· Screening tool identifies symptoms most likely to result in ED visits for cancer patients
At A Glance - January 2013
Highlights: [71 KB PDF]
· Postmenopausal survivors of breast cancer more likely to develop diabetes
· Fewer Ontarians with diabetes getting necessary eye exams despite public funding
· Younger adults at greater risk of recurrent gall bladder inflammation than elderly
· Initiatives needed to improve outcomes, decrease costs for children with medical complexity
· Health costs associated with obesity modest in isolation but significant with other risk factors
At A Glance - December 2012
Highlights: [215 KB PDF]
No elevated risk of heart disease for those who became ill during Walkerton E. coli outbreak
Patients with mental illness have shorter ED wait times during crowded periods
Study offers more complete picture of physician compensation in Ontario
International prescribing rates vary among elderly patients with inflammatory bowel disease Concurrent mother-baby admission to ICU carries high mortality risk
At A Glance - November 2012
Highlights: [176 KB PDF]
Increased OxyContin dispensing in Canada after U.S. launch of tamper-resistant formulation
Study examines appropriate use of angioplasty and bypass surgery in Ontario
Prostate removal linked to a 5% risk of subsequent urinary incontinence surgery
Most seniors on warfarin therapy for atrial fibrillation stop treatment within five years Cataract surgery in Ontario expected to double by 2036
At A Glance - October 2012
Highlights: [96 KB PDF]
People with schizophrenia more likely to die of heart attack, less likely to receive cardiac care
Mental illness and addictions costing
Only a third of children with asthma seen in an Ontario ED seek follow-up care
Physician warnings for medically unfit drivers decrease road crashes Risk of developing diabetes higher in less walkable Toronto neighbourhoods
At A Glance - September 2012
Highlights: [67 KB PDF]
Work environment with no job control may put women at risk of diabetes
Incidence of heart failure declining among Ontario seniors but prognosis remains poor
Cost of adverse drug reactions among elderly Ontarians exceeds $13 million annually
Ontario hospitals reduce C. difficile infection rate after public reporting introduced
Common antibiotics pose a rare risk of severe liver injury in older patients
At A Glance - July/August 2012
Highlights: [148 KB PDF]
Provinces, hospitals could save millions by harmonizing drug buying: study
Physician incentive payments have limited impact on care provided to diabetes patients
· Fewer than half of severely injured car crash occupants triaged to a trauma centre
At A Glance - June 2012
Highlights: [228 KB PDF]
New decision-support tool helps ED physicians predict risk of death in heart failure patients
Influenza vaccine coverage very low for Ontario children under age two
· Antidepressant exposure linked to form of glaucoma in older adults
At A Glance - May 2012
Highlights: [190 KB PDF]
Postpartum maternal prescribing of codeine not a major risk to newborns
Common cholesterol medication may impair renal function in elderly patients
· Less than half of Ontario patients newly diagnosed with asthma receive lung function test
At A Glance - April 2012
Highlights: [188 KB PDF]
Study examines the impact of unhealthy habits on life expectancy of Ontarians
Immigrants have increased risk of preeclampsia in pregnancy
Many patients with chronic kidney disease have
Landmark study finds Ontario’s Métis population more prone to diabetes Antipsychotic use among seniors linked to increased risk of high blood sugar
At A Glance - March 2012
Highlights: [249 KB PDF]
Patients prescribed painkillers after minor surgery may become chronic users
Antibiotic and dementia drug combination not linked to increased cardiac events in seniors
Kidney donors at no greater risk of heart disease than non-donors
Primary care models vary in their care for Ontario’s poor and sick Higher-spending hospitals in Ontario have better patient outcomes
At A Glance - February 2012
Highlights: [139 KB PDF]
Study examines effect of government policies on payments to Ontario physicians
Stroke patients treated with tPA progress through inpatient rehabilitation more rapidly
Dementia drug does not increase risk of adverse pulmonary outcomes in seniors with COPD
Women more likely to experience complications after ICD implantation
Funding and safety warnings have significant effect on ESA use in cancer patients
At A Glance - January 2012
Highlights: [67 KB PDF]
· Serious reactions to measles, mumps and rubella vaccine uncommon: study
· Majority of asthma sufferers have active disease with lengthy periods of remission
· Preoperative consultation rates vary widely among Ontario hospitals
· Stroke patients receiving more inpatient services have reduced mortality from pneumonia
· Transitions between health care settings present risks for older adults
At A Glance - December 2011
Highlights: [71 KB PDF]
· Almost one in five methadone patients filling prescriptions for other opioids
· Multiple factors influence choice of cardiac procedures across Ontario hospitals
· Older drivers taking antidepressants with other drugs at higher risk of car crashes
· ICES study examines health system use of frail Ontario seniors
· Drug combination may lead to hyperkalaemia in the elderly
At A Glance - November 2011
Highlights: [69 KB PDF]
· One in six residents of Ontario long-term care homes receives nine or more medications
· Regulatory agency warnings reduced pediatric desmopressin prescribing rates
· One-third of Ontarians hospitalized for depression not receiving recommended followup care
· Stroke prevention clinic referrals linked to significantly lower patient mortality
· Congenital heart defects more prevalent in children of lower socioeconomic status
At A Glance - October 2011
Highlights: [69 KB PDF]
· Tamoxifen use linked to increased diabetes risk in breast cancer survivors
· Drug-eluting stents reduce need for revascularization in treatment of SVG disease
· Poor health status outranks socioeconomic status as greater predictor of ED use
· Low-income girls in Ontario least likely to complete HPV vaccine regimen
· Antibiotic use common among residents of Ontario nursing homes
At A Glance - September 2011
Highlights: [67 KB PDF]
· Emergency department triage of heart attack patients improved in Ontario
· One in four Ontario adults will be diagnosed with COPD: study· Few Ontario women with gestational diabetes receive followup testing for type 2 diabetes
· Many seniors fail to renew prescriptions after discharge from hospital
· Cholinesterase inhibitors not linked to postsurgery complications in seniors with dementia
At A Glance - August 2011
Highlights: [72 KB PDF]
· Study raises doubts about value of heart ultrasound before elective surgery
· Ontario’s recent immigrants safer drivers than long-term residents: study · Canada’s nonwhite ethnic groups at higher risk for Type 2 diabetes than white counterparts
· ED wait times associated with higher rates of mortality and hospital admission in Ontario
· Bronchodilators linked to bladder dysfunction in patients with COPD
At A Glance - June/July 2011
Highlights: [109 KB PDF]
· Lower risk of death in COPD patients taking long-acting beta-agonists · End-of-life care for lung cancer patients differs in Ontario and the United States· Less than half of patients with multiple sclerosis continually adhere to drug therapies · Improving system efficiency by implementing stroke best practices
· Myocardial perfusion imaging predicts cardiovascular outcomes
At A Glance - May 2011
Highlights: [75 KB PDF]
· One in 25 patients have complications after implanted cardioverter-defibrillator replacement · Statin use before major elective surgery may prevent kidney injury in older patients· Patients with incidental abdominal aneurysms not receiving appropriate follow-up· Ontario women with depression less likely to seek screening for breast, cervical cancer· Assessment tools track symptoms and performance status for end-of-life cancer care
At A Glance - April 2011
Highlights: [71 KB PDF]
· Study compares use of certain cholesterol-lowering drugs in the U.S. and Canada · Adults with developmental disabilities and psychiatric issues more frequent ED visitors · Incidence of upper GI cancers rising dramatically in Ontario · Health promotion program effective in reducing heart disease hospitalizations in Ontario · Excessive doses of opioids prescribed for nonmalignant pain linked to increased risk of death
At A Glance - March 2011
Highlights: [71 KB PDF]
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At A Glance - February 2011
Highlights: [112 KB PDF]
· Low-income Ontarians being prescribed opioids in contravention of guidelines
· Universal access to health care not enough to ensure Canadians get and stay healthy
· Understanding future risk of diabetes mellitus for women with gestational diabetes mellitus
· New online tool predicts probability of death from stroke
· More than one in four Ontario babies delivered by caesarean section: POWER Study
At A Glance - January 2011
Highlights: [73 KB PDF]
· Most Ontarians have geographic access to primary and urgent care [Clarification] · Children from low-income neighbourhoods more likely to undergo surgery for bowel disease · Macrolide antibiotics pose a risk for seniors being treated for hypertension · Infectious diseases kill nearly 5,000 Ontarians annually: OAHPP/ICES study · Rheumatoid arthritis patients treated by specialists more likely to receive early drug therapy
At A Glance - December 2010
Highlights: [71 KB PDF]
Teenage male drivers with behaviour disorders more likely to be involved in a car crash
Extremely large birth weight linked to higher asthma risk
Specialized heart failure clinics a cost-effective model of care for ambulatory patients
Financial barriers may increase the number of ER visits for children with asthma
Interfacility transfer to trauma centres has higher mortality risk than direct transport
At A Glance - November 2010
Highlights: [78.8 KB PDF]
After heart failure, outpatients better off if they see both their family doctor and a specialist
Higher stroke case fatality in patients admitted to hospital on weekends
Rural living associated with higher pediatric appendectomy rates in Ontario
Proportion of Ontario seniors taking more than 10 medications triples in 10 years
Acid suppressants not linked to increased risk of postoperative pneumonia in the elderly
At A Glance - October 2010
Highlights: [71 KB PDF]
Regionalization of pancreatic cancer surgery linked to mortality drop in Ontario but not Quebec
Diabetes in pregnancy associated with higher rates of complications: POWER Study
Young adults with colorectal cancer at increased risk of death 10 years after diagnosis
Headache the most common reason for CT brain scan
Increased wait times for long-term care but faster placement for Ontario seniors most in need
At A Glance - September 2010
Highlights: [78.8 KB PDF]
Forty percent of women in Ontario's urban areas not getting Pap tests
Several factors increase risk of fracture with androgen deprivation for prostate cancer
Radiodiagnostic tests during pregnancy result in low childhood cancer risk
Ontario seniors' use of ambulatory care varies by age, sex and socioeconomic status
Preoperative medical consultations associated with increased mortality and hospital stay
At A Glance - July/August 2010
Highlights: [78.5 KB PDF]
Asthma sufferers at higher risk for other diseases that require medical care
Two-thirds of radiology patients in Ontario not receiving follow-up CT or MRI scans
Adults with newly diagnosed diabetes at increased risk for serious liver disease
Interaction of antibiotic and common heart drugs putting seniors in hospital
Ontarians with rheumatoid arthritis not receiving timely specialist care: POWER Study
At A Glance - June 2010
Highlights: [77.5 KB PDF]
Lack of primary care physicians putting Ontario's children at risk
Risk-factor control edges out new therapies as source of CHD mortality decline
Diabetes cases in Canada to increase by almost two million between 2007 and 2017
Adverse outcomes from joint replacement surgery not linked to provider volumes
Heart failure patients discharged from ED at higher risk of early death than hospitalized patients
At A Glance - May 2010
Highlights: [78.2 KB PDF]
Anti-smoking legislation has proven positive impact on health of Ontarians
Despite aging population, fewer Ontarians being admitted to hospital with stroke or TIA
Common blood thinner dangerous when combined with popular antibiotic
Study compares cardiovascular risk profiles of Canada's major ethnic groups
Recent immigrants at higher risk of developing diabetes
At A Glance - April 2010
Highlights: [78.5 KB PDF]
Study finds many patients with stable angina improve with medicines alone
At least one in 10 adults suffers from COPD but mortality rate declining
One-quarter of Ontario nursing home residents visit the ED at least once in six months
Ontario immigrants' duration of residence directly related to likelihood of preterm births
With better palliative care, fewer emergency department visits possible for cancer patients
At A Glance - March 2010
Highlights: [82.7 KB PDF]
Popular antidepressant blocks life-saving benefits of tamoxifen in breast cancer patients
Major complications after ICD implantation linked to increased mortality risk
Urological infections a concern for men undergoing TRUS-guided prostate biopsy
Simple tool identifies patients who may need closer monitoring after leaving hospital
Off-label use of Avastin to treat macular degeneration mushrooming in Ontario
At A Glance - February 2010
Highlights: [78.5 KB PDF]
Ultrasound use soars for pregnant women, even in low-risk pregnancies
Older patients with refractory depression may not be getting the treatment they need
Low-risk patients do not benefit from cardiac stress testing before major surgery
Physicians in non-fee-for-service practice models benefit most from primary care reforms
One in three Ontarians at risk of being diagnosed with asthma
At A Glance - January 2010
Highlights: [79.1 KB PDF]
Deaths related to narcotic pain relievers have doubled since 1991 in Ontario Women's lower rates of surgery after stroke explained by differences in disease severity Low-income Ontarians with diabetes have higher early death rates Cost of blood glucose test strips to top $500 million in Ontario by 2013 Many Canadians feel their health care needs are not being met
At A Glance - December 2009
Highlights: [78.2 KB PDF ]
Influenza vaccine safe for patients with myasthenia gravis
Less than half of Ontarians with depression see a doctor for treatment: POWER Study
Study identifies hospital markers linked to improved survival rates for heart attack patients
Youth with diabetes likely to be hospitalized while transitioning to adult care
One in four Ontario hospitals change cardiac care policies after public report cards released
At A Glance - November 2009
Highlights: [80.1 KB PDF]
Risk of abnormally slow heart rate twice as high in those taking drugs to slow dementia
Study examines patterns of gynaecological cancer care in Ontario
Blood pressure at hospital discharge a predictor of mortality in patients with heart failure
Suboptimal medication adherence linked to increased mortality in patients with stents
Study sets targets to make Ontario Canada's healthiest province
At A Glance - October 2009
Highlights: [76.6 KB PDF]
More educated patients have better access to specialist health care in Ontario
Antipsychotic dispensing rates linked to increased risk of death for nursing home residents
Patients with acute kidney injury more likely to need dialysis within five years
POWER Study: Fewer than half of women with abnormal Pap tests receive follow-up care
Study confirms sex bias in implantable cardioverter-defibrillator use
At A Glance - September 2009
Highlights: [79.4 KB PDF]
Popular diabetes medications have different rates of heart failure and death
Mild glucose intolerance in pregnancy may signal increased cardiovascular risk in later life
Study finds 50% increase in inflammatory bowel disease in Ontario children in past decade
Risk factors for cardiovascular disease on the rise among Canada's young and poor
Diabetic seniors taking antipsychotic drugs at higher risk of hospitalization for hyperglycemia
At A Glance - July/August 2009
Highlights: [81.7 KB PDF]
Canadian spending on heart drugs doubles to more than $5 billion a year
Ontario women live longer but are sicker: Project for an Ontario Women's Health Evidence-based Report (POWER) study
Household income influences risk of death in infants with complex medical conditions
Physician visits made by asthma sufferers exposed to air pollution linked to income level
Hip and knee replacement surgery saves the health system money
At A Glance - June 2009
Highlights: [81.9 KB PDF]
Heart attack patients not prioritized properly in Ontario emergency departments
Study forecasts considerable increase in Ontarians needing dialysis services
Primary care reform not solving healthcare access for the poor and chronically ill
Mortality and hospitalization rates for cardiovascular diseases declining steadily in Canada
Administrative data tool reveals more Ontario children being diagnosed with diabetes
At A Glance - May 2009
Highlights: [76.4 KB PDF]
Highly educated Ontarians have better access to psychiatric care
Drug for enlarged prostate can cause complications after cataract surgery
Serious adverse events linked to use of dementia drug in older adults
Even mild blood sugar-level abnormalities during pregnancy increase type 2 diabetes risk
Many patients who undergo incomplete colonoscopies receive suboptimal follow-up
At A Glance - April 2009
Highlights: [70 KB PDF]
Ontario achieves modest gains with universal influenza immunization program
Anesthesia consultation before surgery reduces hospital stay
Diabetic patients with heart disease receive more benefit from paclitaxel-eluting stents
Statin therapy associated with reduced mortality at five years in heart failure patients
Wealthier heart attack survivors more likely to make needed lifestyle changes
At A Glance - March 2009
Highlights: [70 KB PDF]
Wealthy Ontarians have better access to MRI scans
Diabetes testing more common but its effectiveness questioned
Risk of eye infection low after cataract surgery
Audit finds major improvements in stroke care in Ontario
Study questions use of expensive patient transfer resources for routine, non-urgent trips
At A Glance - February 2009
Highlights: [82.5 KB PDF]
Acid suppressants increase heart attack risk for patients taking popular cardiac drug
Study measures impact of recurring hospitalizations for heart failure on mortality
Cardiac rehabilitation services provide significant survival benefit to committed users
Study finds a 10-year decline in Ontario hospitalizations for traumatic brain injury
Electronic archiving systems have little impact on the frequency of duplicate diagnostic imaging
At A Glance - January 2009
Highlights: [94 KB PDF ]
Study probes effectiveness of colonoscopy in identifying some colon cancers
Residential environment has little effect on birthweight of children of recent immigrants
Depression associated with significantly higher use of health services by heart attack survivors
Health care utilization in Ontario increases significantly among older age groups
Study identifies Canadians at greatest risk for colonoscopy complications
At A Glance - December 2008
Highlights: [80 KB PDF]
Hernia surgery wait times increase risk for infants and young children Universal access to chicken pox vaccine reduces burden on Ontario’s health care system Increasing access to antiplatelet drug improves cardiovascular outcomes Study finds significant regional variation in rates of diagnostic imaging across Ontario New cancer surgery atlas maps variations in patterns of care in Ontario
At A Glance - November 2008
Highlights: [81.5 KB PDF]
High risk of motor vehicle collisions for dementia patients on psychotropic medications
Study questions the effectiveness of colonoscopy for the upper colon
Tiotropium associated with improved survival in patients with COPD
Free flu shots linked to fewer deaths and demands on the healthcare system in Ontario
Prescribing patterns linked to age of heart attack survivors and to physician characteristics
At A Glance - October 2008
Highlights: [92 KB PDF]
Warfarin underused by patients at high risk for stroke
Statin use in elderly patients linked to higher risk of delirium after surgery
Attendance at diabetes education centres associated with access to regular primary care
Study finds disparities in access to diagnostic imaging services among elderly Ontarians
Surgeon's specialty a factor in repeat surgeries for women with ovarian cancer
At A Glance - September 2008
Highlights: [78 KB PDF ]
No increase in cardiovascular risk detected for kidney donors in years following donation
Seriously ill hospitalized patients unaffected by SARS restrictions in Toronto
Flexible sigmoidoscopy
Mechanically ventilated patients benefit from early tracheostomy
Study shows epidural anaesthesia only slightly improves postoperative survival
At A Glance - July/August 2008
Highlights: [79 KB PDF]
More family physicians needed to reduce visits to Ontario's emergency departments
Study identifies hospital and patient variables associated with early vs. late stroke fatalities
Ethnic minorities with diabetes less likely to receive eye examinations in Ontario
Indications for and results of CT and MRI scans in Ontario examined
Many elderly Ontarians with atherosclerosis not receiving necessary statin therapy
At A Glance - June 2008
Highlights: [85 KB PDF]
Antipsychotic drugs prescribed for elderly patients with dementia may be dangerous
Earlier predictions seriously underestimate the prevalence of hypertension by 2025
Women with gestational diabetes at increased risk for cardiovascular disease after pregnancy
Distinct age and sex differences evident in medicinal self-poisonings
Study finds further opportunities to prevent hospital deaths following CAGB surgery
At A Glance - May 2008
Highlights: [81 KB PDF]
Rise in prevalence of hypertension partly explained by decline in mortality
Children of immigrants more likely to be immunized than children of non-immigrants
Study finds risk of serious assault spikes with alcohol sales
Some ACE inhibitors less beneficial in treating elderly patients with congestive heart failure
Study describes indicators of aggressive end-of-life care among lung cancer patients
At A Glance - April 2008
Highlights: [77 KB PDF]
Ezetimibe prescribing soars in the United States compared to Canada
SSRI antidepressant use during pregnancy not a factor in postpartum hemorrhage
Survivors of traumatic brain injury face increased risk of premature death
Statins appear to exert class effect in patients with congestive heart failure
Study finds regional mismatch between cardiologist supply and demand for cardiac services
At A Glance - March 2008
Highlights: [136 KB PDF]
· Scientists estimate expected survival time for patients suffering from heart failure
· Study suggests women with vulvar cancer may not be receiving optimal care
· Heart attack survivors who don’t fill prescriptions have increased risk of one-year mortality
· Drug history profiles based solely on provincial drug benefit claims likely to be incomplete
· Prescription cost-sharing adversely affects children’s use of asthma medication
At A Glance - February 2008
Highlights: [70 KB PDF]
· Physicians reluctant to report patients who are medically unfit to drive
· Women with diabetes experience higher mortality rates following breast cancer
· Study examines anticoagulation control and hospitalization in elderly patients
· Benefit of long-term cholinesterase inhibitor use for dementia patients questioned
· Value of cardiac troponin testing confirmed as a predictor of mortality in heart failure patients
At A Glance - January 2008
Highlights: [91 KB PDF]
· Over one in 10 elderly hypertensive Ontarians being prescribed beta blockers as initial therapy
· Low colorectal cancer detection rates support the need for an organized screening program
· Elderly COPD patients benefit significantly from combined generalist and specialist care
· Long-term statin use may be associated with decreased risk of bleeding in warfarin users
· Study reveals inequities among Ontario ICD recipients
At A Glance - December 2007
Highlights: [91 KB PDF]
Thiazolidinedione therapy poses risks to older patients with diabetes
Colorectal cancer screening rates are low across Ontario
Study suggests similar hip fracture rates in older women using different bisphosphonates
Ontario home care services are being used by those who most need them
Ontario emergency departments should examine pediatric asthma management strategies
At A Glance - November 2007
Highlights: [78 KB PDF ]
Study examines the effects of age, gender and disease on defibrillator recipients Recent immigrant mothers experience higher risk of low birthweight infants Parents of asthmatic children are reliable reporters of emergency department visits ICES Atlas investigates the diabetes epidemic and Toronto neighbourhoods Elderly patients becoming chronic sleeping pill users following hospitalization
At A Glance - October 2007
Highlights: [124 KB PDF]
Drug-coated heart stents found to be safe and effective in high-risk angioplasty patients
Flu vaccination rates have doubled in the past decade, yet still fall short of national targets
Ontario study finds barriers to biopsy use in diagnosing breast cancer
Improving quality of care in long-term care hospitals is not always more costly
Study examines the impact of obesity on chronic disease in Canadians
At A Glance - September 2007
Highlights: [79 KB PDF]
Cataract surgery rates more than doubled in Ontario: demand still exceeds supply
One in four elderly Ontarians with hypertension prescribed unproven drug combinations
Immigrant women not receiving adequate cervical cancer screening
Inpatient smoking-cessation counseling is an underused intervention
Better anticoagulation control needed for hospitalized patients
At A Glance - July/August 2007
Highlights: [79 KB PDF]
Canada lags behind international community in strategies to reduce wait times
Colonoscopies done in doctors' offices more likely to be incomplete
TV advertising increases public awareness of stroke symptoms and ED visits for stroke
Study examines patterns of health care use by youth and young adults with cerebral palsy
SARS hospital restrictions decreased elective admissions, but also affected urgent services
At A Glance - June 2007
Highlights: [70 KB PDF]
Ontario’s Wait Time Strategy shows no evidence of impact on other surgical procedure rates
Emergency department use in the US and Ontario
Recent immigrants to Ontario
Decreasing salt intake could reduce the number of Canadians with high blood pressure
Socioeconomic status is linked to higher ambulatory care-sensitive hospitalizations in children
At A Glance - May 2007
Highlights: [72 KB PDF]
Many nursing homes prescribe antipsychotic drugs to residents who don't need them
Growth of cardiac technology in Ontario is outpacing scientific evidence
Satellite haemodialysis units are effective for service delivery in rural Ontario
Study explores depression, gender and income levels in recent Canadian immigrants
Significant regional variation exists across Ontario
At A Glance - April 2007
Highlights: [78 KB PDF]
Diabetes increases risk of hip fracture in the elderly by 20%
Ontario EDs miss diagnosing 1 in 20 ruptured brain aneurysms
Study shows impact of antidepressant warnings on prescribing trends
Avoidable mortality reduced during first 25 years of universal health insurance
Better anticoagulation control has health benefits for entire elderly population
At A Glance - March 2007
Highlights: [72 KB PDF]
Ophthalmologists who perform more cataract surgeries have better patient outcomes
Study examines upper GI bleeding following COX-2 inhibitor use in Ontario
Calcium channel blockers may improve patient outcomes following stroke
Parkinson’s patients still receiving older, typical antipsychotics, despite recommendations
People with diabetes are being under treated for coronary risk
At A Glance - February 2007
Highlights: [79 KB PDF]
More university-educated RNs and improved staff satisfaction could reduce hospital death rates
Study examines health and life outcomes of youth and young adults with disabilities
Care to Ontario heart attack patients is similar to certain regions of the U.S.
Guns and knives responsible for over 40,000 trauma visits to Ontario emergency departments
Certain factors predict whether colorectal cancer may be missed
At A Glance - January 2007
Highlights: [70 KB PDF]
Study demonstrates need for comprehensive influenza immunization registry in Ontario
ICU patients have increased risk of discontinuing medications for chronic conditions
Study examines differences in statin prescriptions between Ontario and BC
EDs that treat more heart attack patients are less likely to miss the diagnosis
Nurse-performed screening program for colorectal cancer can be safe and effective
At A Glance - December 2006
Highlights: [71 KB PDF]
ACE inhibitors associated with reduced risk of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm
Continuity of physician care is not likely to reduce the volume of lab tests
Recommendations for establishing an Ontario Citizens' Council to guide drug policy
Restrictions on elective hospital admissions may be insufficient to meet demand in pandemic
ICES Primary Care Atlas most comprehensive report of its kind in Ontario
At A Glance - November 2006
Highlights: [71 KB PDF]
ICES study shows ED waiting times and crowding not affected by patients with minor ailments
Addition of diagnostic imaging equipment in rural areas improves local health care
PPIs do not raise risk of hospitalization for C. difficile in elderly patients taking antibiotics
Many elderly diabetes patients not receiving recommended drugs
Study compares treatment outcomes for achalasia patients
At A Glance - October 2006
Highlights: [104 KB PDF]
Joint replacement surgery wait times impacted by patients’ willingness to have procedure
Women newly-diagnosed with diabetes are more likely to have a history of breast cancer
Analysis reveals important lessons about cross-provincial drug plan research
Initial, confidential CABG report cards had biggest impact on reducing mortality rates
ICES report examines the burden of asthma in the under 40 population
At A Glance - September 2006
Highlights: [66 KB PDF]
Different form of heart failure found to be common and deadly
Local availability of rheumatologists affects specialist utilization by arthritis patients
Study shows no significant difference among ACE inhibitors for heart attack patients
ICES report examines state of primary care services for specific patient populations
Mortality of patients on life support does not differ by hospital volume
At A Glance - July/August 2006
Highlights: [455 KB PDF]
Significant proportion of Ontario cancer patients have poor quality end-of-life care
Clinical trials that use acronyms are cited more often
Study identifies performance measures for emergency department care for children
ICES report presents in-depth look at primary care across the life-cycle
Landmark report examines influence of geography on heart disease patients across Canada
At A Glance - June 2006
Highlights: [465 KB PDF]
Study shows wide disparities in effectiveness of anti-smoking laws across Canada
Mental health care use is unequal between socioeconomic groups
Women and low income earners more likely to have dangerous colorectal cancer complications
Wait times not growing, but inequities still exist, ICES report shows
Physician prescribing patterns are improving for diabetes patients with hypertension
At A Glance - May 2006
Highlights: [647 KB PDF]
SSRI antidepressants associated with increased risk of suicide in first month of therapy
Women with diabetes may have increased risk of breast cancer
Ontario's universal influenza program having a positive impact on vaccination rates
ICES report shows Ontario's health information is in need of urgent upgrades
Prescribing of Alzheimer's drugs varies among Canadian family physicians despite guidelines
At A Glance - April 2006
Highlights: [646 KB PDF]
Common antibiotic can cause potentially fatal blood sugar abnormalities Spironolactone often prescribed to inappropriate heart failure patients Low-risk chest pain patients may not benefit from electrocardiographic monitoring New cervical cancer treatment recommendations have changed practice in Ontario Pregestational diabetes becoming more common in Ontario
At A Glance - March 2006
Highlights: [66 KB PDF]
Increases in cardiac tests outpacing growth of heart disease
Immunizations not up-to-date in many Ontario two-year-olds
Statins may help to protect heart disease patients against sepsis
Ontarians with depression have equitable access to mental health services
Acne patients in lower income groups less likely to be referred to dermatologists
At A Glance - February 2006
Highlights: [65 KB PDF]
ICES report provides in-depth look at physician services in rural and Northern Ontario
Traditional risk factors more influential than SES in explaining differences in heart attack mortality
Adults with disabilities from childhood require improved processes of care
Blood sugar control better for persons with diabetes who receive specialist care
Suicidal individuals without depression require better contact with mental health professionals
At A Glance - January 2006
Highlights: [68 KB PDF]
Paper discusses current challenges facing diagnostic imaging sector
More people with diabetes negates gains from reduced cardiovascular complications
Metabolic problems increase risk of pregnancy complications
Rural family medicine programs growing, but curriculums not adhering to guidelines
Women may require more information for stroke care decision-making
At A Glance - December 2005
Highlights: [67 KB PDF]
Certain pregnancy complications may increase the risk of heart disease in women
Use of CT and MRI scans increased at a greater rate in non-cancer patients
Depression during hospitalization for coronary syndromes can impact mortality rates
Study highlights important differences in heart failure care between the U.S. and Ontario
Elderly have increased use of EDs during flu outbreaks
At A Glance - November 2005
Highlights: [72 KB PDF]
Short-acting beta-blockers associated with less cardiac protection for surgery patients
Outcomes improving for colorectal cancer surgery patients
Social policy changes should better evaluate potential health effects
Breast cancer screening less likely in women with diabetes
Newer atypical antispychotics can also cause parkinsonism
At A Glance - October 2005
Highlights: [72 KB PDF]
ICES report identifies most at-risk group for injuries in Ontario
Heart failure patients at highest risk of death are least likely to get drug treatment
Some stroke outcomes are worse for women than for men
Study outlines what attracts urban- and rural-raised family physicians to rural practice
Antipsychotic use in the elderly up 35%, but costs up 749%
At A Glance - September 2005
Highlights: [67 KB PDF]
ICES report outlines latest trends in Ontario primary care services
Antipsychotics increase risk of movement disorders in dementia patients
Various statins equally effective for preventing recurrent heart attacks or death in the elderly
Study demonstrates which groups are more likely to get colorectal cancer screening
Obese people at greater risk for GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
At A Glance - July/August 2005
Highlights: [65 KB PDF]
Trauma injury risk is higher in summer for pregnant women
Population-based study demonstrates striking seasonality of croup hospitalizations in Ontario
Osteoporosis diagnosis and testing improvements reducing fracture rates in the elderly
Stroke-on-awakening and stroke-while-awake patients have similar outcomes
Valproate and lithium cause equally small rate of delirium in older adults with mood disorders
At A Glance - June 2005
Highlights: [80 KB PDF]
Ontario facing critical shortage of neurosurgery specialists
Stopping warfarin therapy after major trauma may increase risk of blood clots in the elderly
Introduction of laparoscopic cholecystectomy has lowered incidence of severe gallstone disease
Alternative funding arrangements (AFAs) have not led to big changes in ED physician workforce
Socioeconomic status not associated with mortality in elderly pneumonia patients
At A Glance - May 2005
Highlights: [77 KB PDF]
New cholesterol guidelines will cost health care system millions in unnecessary prescriptions
Hospital type and delays to surgery impact outcomes for hip fracture patients
More neighbourhood fast-food restaurants associated with more heart disease and deaths
Certain Ontarians with diabetes still experience high complication rates, despite overall decline
Dementia drugs may cause increased prescribing of incontinence medications to the elderly
At A Glance - April 2005
Highlights: [168 KB PDF]
ICES report identifies how long Ontarians are waiting for key health services
Drug therapy as good as costly invasive cardiac procedures for elderly heart attack patients
Hospital admissisons in Ontario show consistency and predictability
Pediatric hernia surgeries best done by pediatric surgeons or high volume general surgeons
Diabetes-related dialysis needs are growing in Ontario
At A Glance - March 2005
Highlights: [164 KB PDF]
Internationally trained doctors provide same level of heart attack care as Canadian physicians
U.S. cancer centers of excellence have lower surgical mortality, but same long-term survival rates
Diabetic patients with poor blood sugar control could be better managed
Aging "baby boomers" will increase need for life support in ICUs
Clinical trials of Alzheimer’s drug do not adequately represent patients taking it
At A Glance - February 2005
Highlights: [176 KB PDF]
Blueprint for children’s health services needed in Ontario
SSRIs do not increase risk of digoxin toxicity
Minorities under represented in clinical trials
Surgeon specialty and volume impacts outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for lung cancer
Single data source could help improve heart attack care in Canada
At A Glance - January 2005
Highlights: [169 KB PDF]
Potentially inappropriate drugs for seniors available through ODB Alcohol-related hospitalizations highest in low-income, middle-aged individuals Study shows new benefit of statins in heart failure patients Diabetics who manage glucose levels effectively are not as diligent with other conditions Elderly colorectal cancer patients have worse outcomes following surgery
At A Glance - December 2004
Highlights: [172 KB PDF]
Heart attack patients have dangerous waits for drugs in the ED
High volume surgeons better for patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms
Framework developed for Ontario's first report card on public health
ICES study outlines cost of implementing new privacy legislation
Nursing home residents less likely to get inappropriate drugs
At A Glance - November 2004
Highlights: [168 KB PDF]
Study provides insights into non-invasive cardiac testing in Ontario Higher income people more likely to receive colorectal cancer tests Little evidence available to support the use of atypical antipsychotics to treat dementia Flu outbreaks account for nearly 25% of ED overcrowding Antihypertensive medications do not increase risk of type 2 diabetes
At A Glance - October 2004
Highlights: [172 KB PDF]
Study offers insights into seasonal patterns for influenza and pneumonia hospitalizations
Certain common medications can cause lithium toxicity in the elderly
Ontario wait times for arthritis-related joint surgeries increase by up to 9 weeks
Beta-blocker therapy safe for certain heart failure patients
Study maps mammography use in large urban cities
At A Glance - September 2004
Highlights: [162 KB PDF]
Access to specialists improves treatment for arthritis patients
Colonoscopy does not detect all colon cancers
Socioeconomic status affects common childhood surgeries
Study shows wide variation in cardiac arrest outcomes across Canada
Atypical antipsychotic drugs not associated with increased risk of stroke in elderly
At A Glance - July/August 2004
Highlights: [167 KB PDF]
· Spironolactone use can lead to increased hospitalizations and deaths from high potassium
· More hospital beds filled by patients requiring life support
· More detailed cardiac procedure data needed
· Low number of Ontarians screened for colorectal cancer
· Certain maternal factors cause developmental disorders in young children
At A Glance - June 2004
Highlights: [159 KB PDF]
Use of anti-inflammatory drugs associated with greater risk of hospitalization for heart failure
Patients should see hospital physicians after discharge
Leading causes of global death and disability not being studied in clinical trials
Many common illnesses increase risk of suicide in elderly
Most deaths in men with prostate cancer not due to prostate cancer
At A Glance - May 2004
Highlights: [171 KB PDF]
Essential health services not disrupted by SARS outbreak
Nearly 25% of nursing home residents on antipsychotic drugs within one year of admission
Ontario study offers first population-wide look at childhood asthma in Canada
Outcomes can be better at hospitals that perform high volumes of various complex surgeries
Many Canadian heart failure patients experience poor outcomes
At A Glance - April 2004
Highlights: [166 KB PDF]
Privacy concerns hinder the development of useful medical registries needed to improve care
Infant hospitalizations impacted by family’s health
Patients at high risk for stroke are being under treated in Ontario
Study shows striking variation in the use of end-of-life care in U.S. hospitals
Rectal cancer patients treated at high-volume hospitals have better outcomes
At A Glance - March 2004
Highlights: [223 KB PDF]
Nearly one quarter of hospital patients experienced an adverse event after discharge
Consumer expectations vs. health system sustainability: can a balance be achieved?
Obesity and asthma unrelated in children
Thousands more Ontarians should be screened for colorectal cancer
ALLHAT trial shows that physicians’ prescribing patterns change in response to new evidence
At A Glance - February 2004
Highlights: [172 KB PDF]
Isolating patients for infection control may have unintended consequences
Diabetes impacts both quality and length of life
Migraines a major cause of frequent emergency department visits
Achieving Canadian benchmarks for hospital cardiac care would save lives
Parkinson’s patients hospitalized more often for certain conditions
At A Glance - January 2004
Highlights: [166 KB PDF]
New approach needed for drug evaluation in Canada
Chest pain patients in higher SES neighbourhoods have shorter ambulance transport times
Elderly men in the U.S. are receiving excessive screening for prostate cancer
Heart failure index can help doctors predict risk of death
Dementia patients use more resources, but in a similar pattern to patients without dementia
At A Glance - December 2003
Highlights: [159 KB PDF]
Heart disease drug expenditures soar in Canada
Lower income people with diabetes suffering excessive hospitalizations
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) do not cause acute pancreatitis in the elderly
High-volume surgeons improve outcomes for patients undergoing certain high-risk procedures
Certain patient characteristics can predict risk of stroke or death after carotid endarterectomy
At A Glance - November 2003
Highlights: [176 KB PDF]
Heart disease risk factors and death rates vary across Canada
Restrictions to provincial drug plan coverage have a major impact on drug use and expenditures
Volume of high-risk surgeries performed at hospitals unrelated to length of stay or readmission
Better evidence needed to support PET use in evaluating Alzheimer’s disease
One type of heparin is better for treating acute coronary syndromes in rural hospital settings
At A Glance - October 2003
Highlights: [165 KB PDF]
Canadian hospitalization rates for cardiovascular conditions increasing
Emergency department “gridlock” results in delays for patients with chest pain
Polysporin â ointment reduces infections and mortality in dialysis patients
Parkinson’s patients not receiving adequate access to specialists
HOPE (Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation) trial’s effect on ramipril prescribing unprecedented
At A Glance - September 2003
Highlights: [187 KB PDF]
Waiting times for cardiac procedures pose significant hazards for heart attack patients
Survival improving dramatically for Hodgkin’s disease patients
Ontario First Nations people receiving inadequate primary care
Treatment advice varies between medical directors and their respective poison centres
Impact of chronic conditions on quality of life varies by age and gender
At A Glance - July/August 2003
Highlights: [163 KB PDF]
Standardized data collection is a prerequisite to managing access to MRI services Estrogen replacement therapy use dropped dramatically after landmark study
Treatment by cardiologists does improve outcomes for heart failure patients
Implantable defibrillators can prevent sudden cardiac death better than medications alone Diabetes increases the risk of developing and dying from infectious diseases
At A Glance - June 2003
Highlights: [165 KB PDF]
Pre-operative chest X-ray and ECG are often unnecessary
New baby in home increases risk of iron poisoning in young children
Low screening rates for diabetic eye disease may be due to changes in OHIP coverage
Surgery in high-volume hospitals prevents few post-operative deaths
ICES Cardiovascular Atlas provides stimulus for improvement
At A Glance - May 2003
Highlights: [167 KB PDF]
· Parkinson’s disease is placing a heavy financial burden on Ontario’s health care system
· Key cause of emergency department overcrowding is a lack of inpatient beds
· Inequities in accessing specialists mainly due to geography
· Drug interactions in the elderly are causing unnecessary admissions
· Physicians under-treating diabetic heart attack patients
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