Outreach and Events

The Better Choices, Better Health® Online Self-Management Program, is the online version of the internationally recognised Chronic Disease Self-Management Program, developed and tested at the Stanford University Patient Education Centre. 

This is a free, six-session, asynchronous web-based program offered on a dedicated website that meets government privacy requirements. It is open to BC adults of all ages living with one or more ongoing health conditions.   A computer and internet connection are required; no web-cams needed; and participants do not need to be online at the same time.

In this group (max. 25 participants), moderated by two trained peer facilitators, you will learn about:

• Techniques to deal with problems such as frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation
• Appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility, and endurance
• Appropriate use of medications
• Communicating effectively with family, friends, and health professionals
• Healthy eating
• Making informed treatment decisions
• Disease-related problem solving
• Advanced directives

The Better Choices, Better Health Program enhances regular treatment and disease-specific education.

Sessions are highly participative through internal messaging and online discussion boards. Log in at your convenience for about 1.5 to 2 hours per week.

Weekly activities include:

• Reading
• Making and posting a weekly action plan
• Participating in problem-solving and guided exercises on bulletin boards
• Participating in self-tests and activities

To register, see https://www.selfmanagementbc.ca/betterchoices 

For more information please visit www.selfmanagementbc.ca or call TOLL FREE: 1-866-902-3767

 Tuesday, June 17th 2025   7:00 - 8:30 PM

David Lam Auditorium, MacLaurin Building, University of Victoria

Drs Sammy Winemaker and Hsien Seow have engaged in provider education about the benefits of a palliative care approach for decades. An important missing piece has always been public and patient-family education and overcoming misperceptions about palliative care, so they created a social movement called, The Waiting Room Revolution, in 2021. The movement has grown globally, and includes a podcast, best-selling book, “Hope for the Best, Plan for the Rest,” and workbook. These resources help people facing a life-changing diagnosis and their families early in their illness. They will present 7 simple, actionable keys for patients, caregivers, and health care providers to take that lead to a more personalized care journey. Patients have called the keys “empowering,” “game-changing,” and “hopeful.” This movement represents an example of successful public health palliative care strategies to empower patients, provider, and communities. The presentation is open to the public. Patients, families, and providers are welcome. The event will end with a book signing and light refreshments. Books will be available for purchase on site.

We would like to thank the Office of Vice-President Research and Innovation at the University of Victoria for sponsoring this event. This event is free and open to the public. Due to limited seating, pre-registration is required.

Register at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/hope-for-the-best-plan-for-the-rest-tickets-1222937832979?aff=oddtdtcreator 

June 18-20, 2025

University of Victoria

Co-hosted by the University of Victoria and McMaster University, this research seminar, "Innovating Care: Research and Action for Public Health and Palliative Care," will aim to critically interrogate the landscape of palliative care by actively considering and incorporating principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. This seminar focuses on pioneering equity in palliative care through rigorous research and proactive action. We will explore innovative approaches that prioritize social justice, community engagement, and citizen involvement, ensuring that underserved and excluded communities along with others receive the compassionate and comprehensive care they deserve. Sharing collective knowledge from diverse communities and stakeholders, we seek to advance public participation in shaping palliative care policies and practices. Our goal is to create a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, ultimately driving transformative change in palliative care. Join us in our commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and social impact in the field of public health and palliative care.

This June seminar will present a key opportunity for students, post doctoral fellows, early career and senior researchers to come together to discuss and advance global public health and palliative care research. It will provide an open platform to debate critical questions and share evidence of change, while emphasizing the need to transform palliative care practices to be more inclusive, equitable, and community and citizen-centred.

For more information and registration, please visit our conference website at https://event.fourwaves.com/eapcirs2025/pages