Preventive care is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, emphasizing the importance of addressing potential health concerns before they escalate into severe conditions. By focusing on proactive measures such as regular screenings, vaccinations, and lifestyle counseling, preventive care offers individuals and communities the opportunity to achieve long-term wellness.

Below, Edward McInnis highlights the transformative potential of prevention in reducing healthcare disparities, alleviating systemic challenges, and ensuring that every individual has the tools and access needed to lead a healthier life.

Understanding Preventive Care in Family Medicine

Preventive care in family medicine focuses on proactive measures to maintain health and prevent illness before it occurs. This approach emphasizes regular health evaluations, screenings, and interventions that identify potential issues early, reducing the likelihood of severe complications. Preventive care fosters long-term well-being by addressing risk factors and promoting healthier lifestyles while minimizing the burden of chronic diseases.

The philosophy behind preventive care aligns with the idea that staying healthy is more effective and less costly than treating illnesses after they arise. Early detection of conditions such as hypertension or high cholesterol allows patients and physicians to manage these issues effectively, preventing them from escalating into more severe health problems. Beyond individual benefits, this care model contributes to healthier communities by reducing the overall demand for healthcare systems.

Benefits of Preventive Care for Individuals and Communities

Preventive care profoundly impacts individuals and the broader community by addressing potential health concerns before they evolve into severe conditions. Early detection through routine screenings can significantly lower the risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. This improves individual health outcomes and reduces the emotional and financial toll of managing advanced diseases.

Communities prioritizing preventive care experience a ripple effect of healthier populations and reduced strain on healthcare resources. When more people engage in regular check-ups and adopt healthier habits, the prevalence of preventable conditions drops, creating a collective benefit. Individuals who invest in their health through preventive measures often enjoy longer, more active lives, positively influencing families, workplaces, and society.

The economic advantages of preventive care are undeniable, as early intervention typically costs far less than treating advanced illnesses. Vaccination programs, such as those targeting seasonal flu or childhood diseases, can drastically curb outbreaks, saving lives and reducing medical expenses. These benefits demonstrate how preventive care is a cornerstone of sustainable and effective healthcare systems.

Core Preventive Services in Family Medicine

Family medicine emphasizes various preventive services designed to address health needs across all stages of life. Regular health screenings, such as blood pressure and cholesterol checks, are critical in identifying silent health risks. These assessments provide actionable insights that allow individuals to make timely adjustments to their lifestyles or begin treatment when necessary.

Vaccinations are another cornerstone of preventive care, protecting individuals and communities from infectious diseases. From childhood immunizations to seasonal flu shots, these interventions safeguard personal health and prevent the spread of illnesses within larger populations. Counseling services, including guidance on nutrition, exercise, and stress management, empower patients to take an active role in their long-term well-being.

The Role of Family Physicians in Prevention

Family physicians play a pivotal role in fostering preventive care through their ability to build lasting, trust-based relationships with patients. These relationships enable them to understand not just medical histories but also lifestyle factors, family dynamics, and social determinants of health. This comprehensive knowledge allows physicians to craft personalized preventive strategies that resonate with each patient’s unique circumstances, ensuring a more practical approach to maintaining health.

Beyond individual care, family physicians act as educators, equipping patients with the knowledge to make informed health decisions. Whether discussing the significance of regular screenings or addressing misconceptions about vaccines, their guidance helps patients take ownership of their health.

The continuity of care provided by family physicians also ensures that preventive measures are consistently monitored and adjusted as needed, fostering long-term well-being. Their ability to provide holistic and deeply personalized care sets the foundation for healthier patients and communities.

Challenges in Accessing Preventive Care

Despite its proven benefits, accessing preventive care remains challenging for many individuals and communities. Financial barriers, such as lack of insurance coverage or high out-of-pocket costs, often deter people from seeking preventive services. Additionally, limited awareness about the importance of early detection and health promotion means that some individuals may only prioritize preventive care once a health issue becomes severe.

Geographical disparities also play a significant role in limiting access. Rural and underserved areas frequently face shortages of healthcare providers, making it difficult for residents to receive consistent preventive services. In such regions, innovative approaches like mobile health clinics and telemedicine have emerged as solutions to bridge the gap. Expanding these efforts could help overcome logistical obstacles and ensure that preventive care reaches those most in need.

Cultural factors and mistrust of the healthcare system can further complicate access to preventive services. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes community engagement, culturally sensitive care, and efforts to build trust between healthcare providers and patients. Strengthening health literacy and facilitating dialogue between healthcare institutions and the communities they serve are also critical steps in overcoming these barriers.

Promoting and Advancing Preventive Care

Advancing preventive care depends on raising awareness and fostering a culture that values proactive health management. Educational campaigns, workplace wellness programs, and school-based health initiatives encourage people to adopt preventive practices. These efforts create an environment where individuals feel empowered to prioritize their well-being, leading to healthier lifestyles and earlier intervention.

The integration of technology is revolutionizing how preventive care is delivered. Wearable devices that track physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns provide individuals with real-time data about their health, prompting timely action when irregularities arise. Similarly, data analytics and predictive tools enable healthcare providers to identify at-risk populations and deliver targeted interventions, improving outcomes on a broader scale.

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

For some reason, my ears were attuned to the sound of waves crashing. As I walked into my bright, airy hotel room with a balcony overlooking the ocean, I couldn’t help but think to myself, they prepared us for this experience, and it was the epitome of luxury and relaxation. From my check-in to this point, I was attended to with such care.

I quickly finished unpacking and headed to the balcony. I grabbed my sunglasses and a water bottle and headed out the door. When I stepped outside of the room, I took a deep breath of the ocean air. Anxiety gone. I took the elevator into the bustling lobby. “Wow, this place is something else,” I said to myself.

I decided I would check the place out a bit before dinner, so I walked through the lobby and out onto the pool deck. I had to spend a few moments taking in the view before heading towards the beach. As I made my way there, I stopped to close my eyes and listened to the sound of the waves. After a few minutes, I opened my eyes and looked around. “I should probably get ready for dinner, but first, one more look at this view.” I took a final look at the ocean before heading back to my room.

The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to discover paradise at the Hotel Riu Palace Aquarelle. The resort is nestled on the pristine shores of White Bay Beach in the historic town of Falmouth. For four days, I was gifted with the ability to indulge in their 24-hour all-inclusive service, where every whim was catered to. I took the time to relax in their spacious, elegantly appointed rooms, each designed to provide ultimate comfort and relaxation. I didn’t get a chance to, but as I walked around, I saw guests cooling off in one of their four sparkling outdoor pools, while little ones splashed around in the children’s pool, and the exciting Splash Water World water park. I so wanted to go down the adult slide…

The plan was to meet everyone around 7:00 for drinks and then dinner at the Kyoto restaurant. The waitstaff was knowledgeable about the menu (which is completely digital), wine pairings, and local cuisine. I had some dietary restrictions, and some of the other journalists had specific preferences. The resort’s culinary team was happy to accommodate our needs. That night, I had an opportunity to immerse myself in the island’s vibrant culture and indulge in a world-class culinary experience. The ingredients were fresh, and the dishes were creative. After that it was nighty, night for me.

The next day, we were up early, because we had a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Negril from Trelawny.  A drive through Jamaica is a drive through heaven; lush, green vegetation and stunning coastlines. We had to encounter a variety of road conditions: well-maintained highways, narrow, winding roads, and sometimes, unpaved stretches.  Potholes are a common sight, especially in rural areas. Our driver was cautious and watched out for these unexpected obstacles. We learned that in urban areas like Kingston and Montego Bay, traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour.

The purpose of the trip was to see the community development work that RIU is a part of in Jamaica. RIU demonstrates a profound commitment to the communities surrounding its properties, extending beyond tourism and hospitality. The company actively supports the Orthopaedic Clinic in Negril, Jamaica, a vital medical facility that provides much-needed care to local children. I was so proud to hear that this was an initiative championed by Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Canada for the Jamaica Tourist Board. By covering the stay of volunteer American doctors and shouldering the clinic’s operational costs, RIU ensures the continuity of this invaluable service. This partnership enables the clinic to treat hundreds of children annually, improving their mobility and quality of life. RIU’s dedication to social responsibility highlights its role as a catalyst for positive change, leaving a lasting impact on the communities it serves.

We made our way over to Rick’s Cafe for some libation. We were transported back in time to the 1970s, when Richard Hershman first opened its doors in a sleepy fishing village. The cliffside setting offers breathtaking sunset views and is as iconic today as it was decades ago. As we sipped our drinks, we couldn’t help but feel the vibrant energy of this legendary spot. It’s no wonder Rick’s Cafe continues to be a top destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a taste of Negril’s rich history and stunning natural beauty.

By that time, we were all famished, so it was time for lunch at the Riu Palace Tropical Bay, and it was a delightful culinary experience. The chef truly showcased her skills with a selection of traditional Jamaican favorites. The oxtail was fall-off-the-bone tender, the rice and peas were flavourful and perfectly cooked, and the jerk chicken was seasoned to perfection. The salad bar offered a refreshing variety of options, and the rum cake was the perfect sweet ending to the meal. It was clear that the chef took pride in her work, and it showed in every dish.

After this it was time to head back to the hotel, and luck was on our side. The traffic was light, so we got back in time to change, relax and meet everyone for our second night at the RIU Aquarelle.

BY PAUL JUNOR

The untimely passing of Patrick Parson, Artistic Director, Principal Choreographer and Musical Director of Ballet Creole on Wednesday, November 20^th, 2024, came as a shock. His death has triggered an avalanche of deep emotions, strong feelings and sincere reflections not just from his immediate family members and loved ones, but the wider artistic community in the Greater Toronto Area. He was an integral and influential part of the African Caribbean dance community prior to and after the launch of Ballet Creole in 1990. His musical legacy, artistic contributions, and outstanding body of work have left an indelible mark not just in Canada but internationally as well.

He was always grateful for his years in Trinidad and Tobago for contributing to his artistic developments. He was a principal dancer with the Astor Johnson Repertory Dance Theatre of Trinidad before migrating to Canada. He completed studies at the School of the Toronto Dance Theatre and later at the Katherine Dunham Center for Arts and Humanities in East St. Louis. This enabled him to become a certified teacher of the Dunham technique. Ballet Creole School of the Performing Art offered classes to different age groups: children, youth and adults. His choreographic work over the years involved a fusion of: Caribbean, African, East Indian, jazz and modern jazz styles.

Patrick was well known in the dance community for the multiple roles that he played over the years. He was a cultural advisor to the: Toronto Arts Council, Metro Cultural Affairs, Ontario Arts Council, Harbourfront Centre, Laidlaw Foundation, and the Arts Advantage Program at Downsview Secondary School.

Patrick’s awards include:

• Entrepreneurial Award of Merit from the African Chamber of Commerce
• New Pioneer Award from Skills for Change
• Outstanding Community Service Award from Dance Caribe Performing Company

There have been many tributes paid to Patrick from those who knew him personally. A Facebook post from his children: Gabriella, Mikhail, Natassia, Jeanne-Arlette, Rachel and Zane reads, “On November 20^th, 2024, our father Patrick Anthony Parson took his final breath after a yearlong battle with pancreatic cancer. He is now at peace dancing with the ancestors. Patrick was larger than life in our family and in our expansive artistic and cultural community. People knew him in his many capacities: dancer, choreographer, musician, professor, mentor, teacher, counsellor, founder, artistic director, board member, advisor. For us he was dad, or daddy or pop. He was respected, adored, and honored by the communities he belonged to. In his final days, he sought quiet. A celebration of life for our dad is in the making and we shall share information in the coming weeks. Soar with the ancestors Dad. Your legacy will live on!”

Ricardo Keens-Douglas wrote on his Facebook page, “Patrick you will be missed. You fought the good fight, travel well my friend. You have left the world and to the folks you touched with your life and talent. Dance my brother dance.”

Monique Newton-Walker penned these words on her Facebook page. “It has been a season of many icons transitioning, and today I am sad to learn that our fellow 2002 cohort member Patrick Parson has recently transitioned and now dances amongst the dancers. This picture represents a community that I continue to learn from to this day. I am grateful I was able to share space with Patrick in 2023.He was a pillar to the dance community and will be truly missed. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Don’t wait, love on your loved ones daily.”

There was a deeply moving and emotionally reflecting tribute from Kevin A. Ormsby, (Artistic Director of KasheDance, Curator of Programming at CPAMO and Arts Consultant) on his Facebook page. Ormsby mentioned that he started working with Patrick when he was 16 years old. “You have poured: knowledge, energy, and focus into me. We danced together, we ran Ballet Creole together, we managed a professional program together, we advocated together, and you had the confidence to have me be a leader before those words were buzz words. When I think back crafting this in tears, I am thinking of all the spaces Ballet Creole occupied in Toronto and all the other capacities in the arts you wanted me to see. Clearly you saw deeper.”

Ormsby expressed his gratitude to Patrick for his involvement with KasheDance. He notes, “I lead with so many examples learnt over the years from you.” He summarized his reflections with these words. “You have laid the foundation for so many artists, teachers and administrators across Canada. Your tireless effort in uniting practitioners of African Diasporic Dance across Canada, the US and the Caribbean.”

Ormsby lists some of the outstanding works that Patrick has produced over the years. He states, “YOU SHOWED UP in so many spaces because you realized the capacity of presence. I hold on to that presence NOW as you transition with ‘Naningo Calling,’ ‘Voices,’ ‘Fete,’ ‘Carnaval,’ ‘Soulful Messiah,’ ‘Saraka,’ ‘Ancestral Calling,’ to your next duty as an ancestor.”

There was a special tribute by Ballet Creole posted on Facebook on Monday, November 25^th. It reads, “Patrick’s visionary leadership, profound creativity, and unwavering dedication to the art of dance transformed the dance world in Canada and internationally, touching the lives of many: artists, dancers, collaborators and audience.” The post summarizes his contributions by noting that he was, “A true pioneer in the world of dance, Patrick was known for his innovative choreography that reflected diverse cultural expressions and world issues. He had a passionate commitment to nurturing talent, and tireless advocacy, for artists of color, using his voice to push for equity and representation.”