From the recent surge in Omicron infections to health spending in the federal budget, Unity Health Toronto experts offered insights this week into our rapidly changing world. Here are our top media hits for the week of April 2-8.

How Omicron is changing the way rapid tests should be used
Toronto Star on April 7, 2022
Interview with Dr. Kevin Schwartz

If someone is showing COVID symptoms and are high risk, elderly, immune compromised, have chronic medical conditions or are not-fully vaccinated, they should get tested early and seek treatment, says Dr. Kevin Schwartz, infectious disease physician at St. Joseph’s.

A Q&A with Dr. Peter Jüni, head of Ontario’s Science Advisory Table, about the recent surge of infections
Toronto Life on April 7, 2022
Interview with Dr. Peter Jüni

Dr. Peter Jüni, epidemiologist at St. Michael’s and outgoing director of the Ontario COVID-19 Science Advisory Table, shares his thoughts on masking, what the summer may bring, and why Toronto is a ‘wonderful place’.

Departing Ontario COVID-19 adviser reflects on life away from the public eye
Global News on April 6, 2022
Interview with Dr. Peter Jüni

Dr. Peter Jüni, epidemiologist at St. Michael’s and outgoing director of the province’s COVID Science Advisory Table reflects on Ontario’s pandemic experience.

Why do some people seem unable to catch COVID? Scientists are looking for answers
USA Today on April 4, 2022
Interview with Dr. Prabhat Jha

Despite widespread infections, scarce use of masks, no vaccines and little ability to maintain social distance, there have been relatively few deaths from COVID-19 in Sierra Leone. USA Today speaks with Dr. Prabhat Jha about his research to understand why.

Addressing the issues the pandemic has exposed in Canada’s healthcare system
CBC Canada Tonight on April 6, 2022
Interview with Dr. Danyaal Raza (at 26:10)

Dr. Danyaal Raza, family physician at St. Michael’s Hospital, discusses how the federal budget can address gaps in healthcare coverage, including a national pharmacare plan and a dental plan.

Why pharmacare plans keep stalling in Canada — even as research suggests billions in savings
CBC News on April 6, 2022
Interview with Dr. Nav Persaud

Dr. Nav Persaud, who has researched the benefits of providing access to essential medicines for free, speaks to CBC News about the need for a national pharmacare program and the impact it will have on patients’ lives.

Do you really need a fourth COVID-19 shot? Here’s what the federal advisory committee says
Toronto Star on April 5, 2022
Interview with Dr. Tara Kiran

Dr. Tara Kiran, family physician at Unity Health, weighs in on the benefits and effectiveness of vaccination against COVID-19 in the Toronto Star.

Equity in Primary Care with Gary Bloch
STFM Podcast on April 1, 2022
Interview with Dr. Gary Bloch

Poverty is a known risk-factor for poor health. Dr. Gary Bloch joins the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) podcast to discuss direct interventions in primary care.

It’s time for a new COVID-19 vaccination strategy in Ontario, experts urge
The Canadian Press on April 4, 2022
Interview with Dr. Fahad Razak

Experts are calling for a new COVID vaccination strategy, as Ontario enters a sixth wave. Dr. Fahad Razak tells The Canadian Press one strategy is to better utilize family doctors to increase booster shot rates.

What to make on mixed messaging about masks
CP24 on April 4, 2022
Interview with Dr. Fahad Razak

Dr. Fahad Razak, internist at St. Michael’s, tells CP24 that the protection from COVID that comes from masking is highest when everyone is wearing one.

Patients struggle to get diagnosed and treated for endometriosis
CityNews on March 14, 2022
Interview with Dr. Yolanda Kirkham

Dr. Yolanda Kirkham, obstetrician gynecologist at St. Joseph’s, explains endometriosis, a chronic disorder that impacts nearly 1 million people in Canada.

Choir group Voices Rock Medicine are health care workers hoping to inspire
Canada’s Got Talent on April 5, 2022
Featuring Drs. Sarah Kim, Carolyn Snider, Daphne Williams and Christine Song

Voices Rock Medicine, a choir of female physicians including several from Unity Health, were featured on Canada’s Got Talent.