Posters

Youth Leadership and Engagement

  • Closing Gaps in Mental Health and Addiction Care and Access to Meet the Needs of Youth from Equity-Deserving Communities

    Presented by: Aleesha Rehill (Project Manager, Community Engagement, Family Navigation Project at Sunnybrook)

    Additional Authors: Sugy Kodeeswaran (Executive Director, Family Navigation Project at Sunnybrook); Anthony Levitt (Medical Director, Family Navigation Project at Sunnybrook & Chief, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre); Roula Markoulakis (Scientist, Family Navigation Project at Sunnybrook); Liisa Kuuter (Program Manager, Family Navigation Project at Sunnybrook)

    The first few weeks post-hospital discharge have the highest risk of morbidity and mortality for patients with mental health and addiction (MHA) needs, and the risk is higher for youth from equity-deserving communities. In alignment with the conference theme of “addressing system level inequities among vulnerable and marginalized populations from birth to adolescence using community and patient engagement” this project will focus on trialing and implementing a new approach to close this gap and support youth in getting connected to the appropriate care post-discharge.

  • Flooding and Mental Health in New Brunswick Children and Youth

    Presented by: Alegria de la Parra (Student Researcher, NB/IRDT); Caleb Newton Moore (Student Researcher, NB/IRDT)

    Additional Authors: Sandra Magalhaes (Project Lead, University of New Brunswick)

    New Brunswick (NB) resident have experienced numerous floods which has had negative effects on mental health (MH). Previous research suggests that children and youth are the most vulnerable, yet there are many knowledge gaps. This study will identify affected populations of children and youth in NB, determine the extent to which MH has been negatively impacted by flood exposure and understand which sociodemographic and flood-related characteristics are related to greater risk. The investigation will use linked individual-level administrative datasets from a number of government departments accessible at NB-Institute for Research, Data and Training (NB-IRDT).

  • Healthcare Related Needs for Youth in Care: A Mixed-Methods Study

    Presented by: Allison Gallant (Resident Physician, Dalhousie University)

    Additional Authors: Tania Wong (Pediatrician, IWK Health); Selene Etches (Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist, IWK Health)

    HomeBridge Youth Society (HYS) provides living facilities for youth aged 12-18 years who are under the temporary or permanent care of the Minister of Community Services and Mi’kmaw Family and Children’s Services. Development of a general pediatrics clinic on-site at HYS is underway. The objectives of this mixed methods study were to characterize the population and health-seeking behaviours of youth residing at HYS; and to understand the healthcare needs of youth in care at HYS through interviews with youth and key informants.

  • Identity Negotiations of Multiply Marginalized Youth with Disabilities

    Presented by: Van Slothouber (Postdoctoral Fellow, Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital)

    Additional Authors: Sally Lindsay (Senior Scientist, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital)

    This research explored the lived experiences of discrimination of racialized and/or gender diverse youth with disabilities. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 youth with disabilities who identified as gender diverse and/or as a racial minority. This analysis focuses on the ways in which these youth negotiate their multiply marginalized identities. We found that the development of youths’ identities was a complex process, where youth were influenced by, and internalized, external discriminatory beliefs and expectations, but also actively negotiated their identities through challenging these beliefs, accepting their identities, enacting agency regarding identity disclosure, and finding community and accessible spaces.

  • Learning it Together: A Student-Led Health Promotion Program Aiming to Improve Early Numeracy, Literacy, and Health Living Skills via an Innovative Mentorship Approach Among Disadvantaged Children and Youth in the London Community

    Presented by: Dimitrios G. Oreopoulos (Co-Director of Learning it Together, University of Western Ontario); Tamara Cvijan (Co-Director of Learning it Together, University of Western Ontario)

    Learning it Together (LIT) was started over a decade ago by a group of passionate students in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Western Ontario who were seeking to use the knowledge of healthy lifestyle practices gained through their courses in order to make a positive impact on the lives of youth in the London Community. In contrast to the majority of health promotion initiatives that have targeted youth in previous decades, these students were committed to ensuring that this intervention would be shaped by the understanding of health as a multidisciplinary concept.

  • The Unseen Barriers: A Patient-Oriented Study on Healthcare Access for Young Adults with Mental Health Disabilities

    Presented by: Sandy Rao (PhD Candidate, University of Calgary)

    This patient-oriented mixed methods study focuses on young adults with mental health-related disabilities (YAMHDs) and their access to healthcare in Canada. Despite over 2 million Canadians living with MHDs and a critical need for services, fewer than 20% receive appropriate care, leading to chronic conditions and a significant burden on overall health. Our approach merges quantitative analysis of national data to identify barriers specific to young adults, and qualitative interviews co-designed with patient research partners. We aim to illuminate the invisible challenges YAMHDs encounter, informing the creation of healthcare policies and practices that enhance access and functionality for this demographic.

  • Understanding the Perceived Impact of Intersectional Forms of Discrimination and Coping Strategies Among Racial Minoritized Youth with Disabilities

    Presented by: Sally Lindsay (Senior Scientist, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital)

    Additional Authors: Peiwen Cao (Research Co-ordinator, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital)

    Youth with disabilities often experience discrimination and stigma. Youth who have multiple minoritized identities, such as racialized youth with disabilities, arguably encounter more extensive and complex forms of discrimination. Our qualitative study explored the experiences of discrimination of racial minoritized youth with disabilities. Our findings highlighted the impact of various forms of ableism and racism including social isolation; avoidance of unwelcoming and unsafe environments and situations; physical and mental health, decisions about identity disclosure, and a lack of access to resources and opportunities. Youth also demonstrated some positive coping strategies.

  • What Research is Most Needed for Promoting Health Equity in Canada’s Youth?: The EPIC Youth Project

    Presented by: Carla Hilario (Assistant Professor, UBC Okanagan); Stacie Smith (Director, Young Canadians Roundtable on Health); Raissa Amany (Executive Director, Young Canadians Roundtable on Health)

    Additional Authors: Caroline Foster-Boucher (Assistant Professor, MacEwan University); Priscilla Boakye (Assistant Professor, Toronto Metropolitan University); Christine Cassidy (Assistant Professor, Dalhousie University); Egbe Etowa (Postdoctoral Fellow, Toronto Metropolitan University); Bukola Salami (Professor, University of Calgary); Josephine Wong (Professor, Toronto Metropolitan University)

    Health equity means that all youth have a fair opportunity to be as healthy as possible. However, inequities in health and healthcare persist and have been a public health challenge for decades. Our project will explore youth experiences of health in/equity and identify priority areas for research and action. We will use a series of online focus groups with youth and discussion workshops with decision makers, service providers, and parents/caregivers. The results of the project will create an agenda for moving knowledge to action and for planning future research to address youth health equity in Canada.

Inclusive Care and Engagement Approaches

  • Addressing Autism Service Disparities for Newcomer Families: Insights from Service Providers

    Presented by: Janet McLaughlin (Associate Professor, Wilfrid Laurier University)

    Additional Authors: Vanessa Fong (Postdoctoral Fellow, University of British Columbia); Margaret Schneider (Associate Professor, Wilfrid Laurier University)

    This study sought to examine the perceptions of service providers regarding challenges encountered when supporting newcomer parents of autistic children and solutions for addressing these issues. Thematic analysis of interviews with service providers in Ontario highlighted challenges related to language barriers, interdisciplinary collaboration and communication, and limited awareness of available resources and support services. Strategies to improve services for newcomers included having access to training and education in cultural safety, prioritizing relationship building, and implementing hiring practices that ensure diverse representation among staff. These findings have important policy and practice implications, offering actionable insights to enhance equity for newcomer families.

  • Co-Designing a Better Patient Experience for Autistic Children and Youth Attending Outpatient Clinics for Medical Procedures

    Presented by: Shaira Wignarajah (Pediatrics Resident R2, Queen’s University)

    Additional Authors: Dawa Samdup (Developmental Pediatrician, Kingston Health Sciences Centre); Helen Coo (Grants & Spec class=”title”ial Projects Leader, Queen’s University); Simoon Moshi (Medical Student, Queen’s University); Josephine Jakubowski (Medical Student, Queen’s University); Bryan Wong (Medical Student, Queen’s University)

    Patient experience is an integral component of healthcare quality. The goals of our study is to improve the patient experience of Autistic children, youth, and their caregivers when attending the outpatient testing clinics: phlebotomy, radiology, audiology, EEG. ECG. To achieve this, we create “what to expect at your clinic visit” social stories. Secondly, we use experience-based co-design to gain an understanding of patients’ and caregivers’ experiences when attending the clinics, and staff perspectives on the factors that contribute to negative experiences. Third, we will co-design solutions with families and staff to improve the patient experience and quality of care.

  • Navigating the Impact of Discrimination: Exploring the Experiences of Sex/Gender Minoritized Youth with Disabilities

    Presented by: Sally Lindsay (Senior Scientist, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital)

    Additional Authors: Peiwen Cao (Research Co-ordinator, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital)

    Exploring the lived experiences of sex/gender minoritized youth with disabilities is important, because they encounter many challenges within education, health, and social services, including discrimination, which could perpetuate inequalities. This qualitative study had a purposive sample of ten sex/gender minoritized youth with disabilities aged 17-25 years. Our findings identified the following themes related to the perceived impact of ableism: negative impacts on physical and mental health; hiding minoritized identities while avoiding unsafe spaces and situations; and inadequate social support and opportunities. We also found that youth demonstrated several positive coping strategies for dealing with ableism.

  • Out in Public and the Impacts of Public Gender-Based Violence Against 2SLGBTQ+ Youth

    Presented by: Rayan Saied (Project Officer, Wisdom2Action)

    The study investigated public gender-based violence (GBV) against 2SLGBTQ+ youth in Canada, aiming to understand its impact on mental health and provide recommendations for addressing the issue. Data from 400 2SLGBTQ+ youth aged 16-24 was collected through focus groups, interviews and a survey. Data revealed verbal violence (55.6%) as common, occurring in streets (73.7%) and schools (50.6%). Fear of spaces due to GBV risk was prevalent. Analysis highlighted heightened risk for racialized and trans youth, revealing intra-group oppression. Recommendations for prevention, response, and long-term action emphasized creating safer spaces and mental health support in collaboration with queer and trans youth.

  • Patient and Caregiver Perspectives of Trauma-Informed Care in Pediatric Practice: A Scoping Review

    Presented by: Sanya Grover (Medic class=”title”al Student, University of British Columbia)

    Additional Authors: Colleen Pawliuk (Research Librarian, BC Children’s Hospital); Devon Greyson (Assistant Professor, School of Population and Public Health); Britt Udall (Clinical Research Coordinator, BC Children’s Hospital and RICHER Program); Matthew Carwana (Pediatrician, BC Children’s Hospital and RICHER Program)

    Trauma-informed care is a person-centered form of practice that can involve many elements, such as promoting cultural safety and awareness; establishing trust in relationships between the patient and provider; and focusing on taking a strengths-based approach that honors resiliency. While many frameworks may exist, current literature shows that providers do not feel prepared to implement these skills. More importantly, patient and caregiver perspectives are often missing from this research. This scoping review aims to map the perspectives of patients, caregivers, and providers regarding best practices for trauma-informed care.

  • Prenatal Care Experiences of First-Time Mothers who Experience Socioeconomic Vulnerabilities Across New Brunswick

    Presented by: Matthew Stackhouse (Research Assistant, University of New Brunswick)

    Additional Authors: Haylie Simmons (Research Assistant, University of New Brunswick); Caitlin Robertson (Program Evaluator, University of New Brunswick); Lisa Wallace (Program Evaluator, University of New Brunswick); Julie Caissie (Program Evaluator, University of New Brunswick); Jessica Bouchard (Program Evaluator, University of New Brunswick); Sandra Magalhaes (Project Lead, University of New Brunswick)

    Canadian research describing prenatal care experiences of first-time mothers who experience socioeconomic disadvantage is limited. This qualitative study explores the prenatal care experiences of eleven first-time mothers who experienced socioeconomic disadvantaged during pregnancy in New Brunswick (NB). Key themes included housing, financial and family support needs, access to medical services, information, and community-based services, the emotional experience and postnatal services used. Support systems and access/availability were identified as facilitators to accessing care, and staffing/resource, geographical and navigational constraints were identified as barriers. This research provides insights that can be used to help ensure programs/services better meet needs of vulnerable families.

  • Youth Substance Use in the Emergency Department: A Literature Review and Local Landscape of Presentation and Outcomes

    Presented by: Joelynn Annoh-Kwafo (Medical Student, Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick)

    Additional Authors: Natalia Fana (Research Manager, Horizon Health Network); Sarah Campbell (Research Manager, Horizon Health Network); Cristian Estrella (Research Assistant, Horizon Health Network); Sarah Lunney (Research Coordinator, Horizon Health Network); Kavish Chandra (Physician, Horizon Health Network); Sarah Gander (Physician, Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick)

    This study addresses the lack of tailored healthcare for young substance users in Canada, aiming to improve health equity by recommending customized interventions to enhance outcomes and reduce substance-related harms. It will identify effective interventions from existing literature and explore various approaches including, medication-assisted and combined pharmacological and behavioural treatments. Utilizing electronic health records from Saint John Regional Hospital, the study will analyze data on paediatric patients with substance-related harms. Findings will identify gaps and promising practices, providing insights for future research, policy, and clinical practice to better support youth in the healthcare system.

Culturally Safe and Trauma Informed Support

  • A Systematic Review of Barriers to and Facilitators of Early Learning and Childcare Among Black Children and Families in Canada and the USA

    Presented by: Mary Ajayi (Graduate Student, Queen’s University)

    Additional Authors: Shivani Jackson (Undergraduate Student, Queen’s University); Alhassan Siiba (Graduate Student, Queen’s University); Joseph Kangmennaang (Professor, Queen’s University)

    Early Learning and Childcare Services (ELCC) are crucial for children’s development and overall well-being. However, marginalized communities in Canada and the USA face barriers to accessing quality ELCC. This systematic review examines these barriers and facilitators for Black children and families using the PRISMA guidelines. Analyzing 55 studies, the review identifies factors such as parental involvement, access to services, income, education, employment, cultural competence, and racism as either barriers or facilitators. These factors are categorized into familial context, types of care, socioeconomic factors, and cultural competence. The findings aim to guide ELCC providers and policymakers in creating more equitable services.

  • Black and Asian Canadian Youth with Developmental Disabilities: Barriers to Social Support

    Presented by: Attia Khan (Postdoctoral Fellow and Contract Faculty, York University); Marty Lampkin (Professor, Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist, Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers)

    Additional Authors: Nazilla Khanlou (Professor, York University); Luz Maria Vazquez (Research Coordinator and Contract Faculty, York University); Fernando Nunes (Associate Professor, Mount Saint Vincent University); Donna Susanto (Disability Advocate)

    We conducted 18 interviews, exploring pandemic related challenges of social support experienced by families with developmental disabilities (10 providers, 4 youth, 4 parents of South Asian, African and Caribbean descent). Emerging findings indicate barriers to: Access to health care (in person: transportation, lack of staff; online: navigating appointments/consults); Culturally-safe services and information; Funding; Equity in education (online access); Discrimination and stigma in schools and society; Mental health. Black and Asian Canadian youth with DDs represent an under-serviced, economically-marginalized community. Participants recommended increase in funding, tailored services, cultural-safety training and diversity of service providers and an intersectoral approach to family support.

  • Building Knowledge and Understanding of the Intersection of Race and Disability in Accessing Paediatric Rehabilitation Services

    Presented by: Taryn Eickmeier (Executive Lead, Research, Innovation and Knowledge Mobilization, Grandview Kids); Meghann Lloyd (Associate Professor, Ontario Tech University)

    Additional Authors: Maritza Basaran (Research Coordinator and Knowledge Broker, Grandview Kids); Janicka Auguste (Research Coordinator, Grandview Kids)

    Disability transcends social divides and includes people of all races, ethnicities, ages, genders, religions, and socio-economic statuses. The gap in data, both objective and experiential, limits our understanding of the inequities faced by racialized children and youth waiting and accessing paediatric rehabilitation. Mobilizing co-production strategies, our research team collaborated with Family Advocates to develop a diversity census and inclusion survey for approximately 16,000 clients of Grandview Kids – the children’s treatment centre in Durham Region. This poster showcases co-production tactics that transferred decision-making power from researchers to people with lived experience to enhance the uptake and dissemination of the survey.

  • Community, Culture & Connectivity: Exploring the @PunjabiKidsHealth Social Media Health Promotion Program

    Presented by: Pardeep Kaur Benipal (Research Assistant, Unity Health Toronto)

    Additional Authors: Chandandeep Bal (Pediatrician, The Hospital for Sick Children); Gurkirat Kaur Kandola (Pediatrics Resident, University of British Columbia); Bhavan Panghali (Pediatrics Resident, The Hospital for Sick Children); Jasleen Nijjar (Pediatrics Resident, University of Manitoba); Gurpreet Sahl (Developmental Pediatrician, Sunny Hill Health Center for Children); Mandeep Mahal (Pediatrician, BC Children’s Hospital); Clara Juando-Prats (Critical Health Researcher, Unity Health Toronto); Aisha Yousafzai (Professor, Harvard University); Ripudaman Minhas (Developmental Paediatrician, St. Michaels Hospital)

    The @PunjabiKidsHealth (PKH) initiative is an online social media health promotion program designed to improve healthcare accessibility and foster community connections within the global Punjabi diaspora. This study used a descriptive phenomenological approach, conducting in-depth interviews with caregivers of Punjabi identity. Results showed that participants, primarily middle-aged females living in Canada, valued the PKH platform for its culturally relevant content. They faced challenges such as navigating health information, balancing traditional and Western parenting norms, and bridging generational gaps. Participants expressed a desire for more personalized content and suggested future enhancements like in-person workshops, a dedicated app, and helplines.

  • Consensus Terminology, Definitions and Data Collection for Patients and Families who Speak Languages other than English: A Research Agenda

    Presented by: Analyssa Cardenas (Medical Student, Dalhousie University)

    Additional Authors: Katharine Berardinetti (Medical Student, University of Toronto); Victor Do (Co-Chief Resident, PGY-4, University of Toronto)

    12.7% of Canadians speak a language other than English or French. Families who speak languages other than English (LOE) experience worse outcomes including increased hospital admission and misdiagnosis. Despite this, there’s no standardized terminology for reference or data collection in this population. A critical part of addressing health disparities includes precise population definitions. This research framework agenda, which includes a scoping review, community based participatory study, and consensus methodology, will define common terminology for patients and families with LOE. Establishing terminology for patients with LOE provides a framework for enhancing program delivery, strengthening policies, and targeting interventions for equitable care.

  • Cultural Adaptation of a Knowledge Mobilization Resource to Support Ukrainian Newcomers to Canada

    Presented by: Sarah A. Elliott (Assistant Director; Co Director, Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence; Cochrane Child Health)

    Additional Authors: Samantha Cyrkot (Health Research Project Lead, Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence); Shannon Scott (Professor, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta); Lisa Hartling (Professor, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta)

    Our group has developed knowledge mobilization (KM) resources so families can access evidence-based health information to help them make decisions about their child’s health, and when to seek care. We worked in partnership with Ukrainian community members, knowledge brokers and clinicians to culturally adapt a KM resource, to support Ukrainian families navigate a trip to the emergency department with their child in Canada. Feedback has been positive, highlighting the value of engaging with end-users to tailor resources. We believe this work is critical to support the needs of Canada’s diverse population, and enhance health equity among underserved groups in Canada.

  • Exploring Methods for Creating or Adapting Knowledge Mobilization Products for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Audiences: A Scoping Review

    Presented by: Sarah A. Elliott (Assistant Director; Co Director, Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence; Cochrane Child Health)

    Additional Authors: Liza Bialy (Project Coordinator, Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence); Shannon Scott (Professor, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta); Lisa Hartling (Professor; Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta)

    Our research group conducted a scoping review to understand current approaches and methods when developing knowledge mobilization (KMb) resources for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) audiences. We reviewed literature from 2011 until August 2023 on KMb resource creation or adaptation processes serving CALD communities, and included 78 studies. Studies were mapped to a stakeholder engagement framework. Successful uptake of created or adapted KMb resources was often the result of collaboration with end-users for more applicable, accessible and meaningful resources. Further research developing guidance and best practices is needed to support the creation or adaptation of KMb resources with CALD communities.

  • Navigating Stress: The Role of Social Media for Ukrainian Refugee Families

    Presented by: Iryna Dvoretska (Research Coordinator, St. Michaels Hospital)

    Additional Authors: Ripudaman Minhas (Developmental Paediatrician, St. Michaels Hospital)

    This research abstract explores the impact of social media on the stress levels of Ukrainian refugee families during the conflict. Preliminary findings suggest that social media served as a crucial tool for communication, information sharing, and emotional support, contributing to the resilience of displaced families. Further analysis aims to provide insights into the nuanced experiences and outcomes associated with social media use among Ukrainian refugees.

  • The Role of Race and Ethnicity in Leisure Participation Among Children and Youth With Disabilities: A Systematic Review

    Presented by: Narges Abdeahad (Post Doctoral Fellow, Bloorview Research Institute at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital)

    Additional Authors: Sally Lindsay (Senior Scientist, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital)

    Through a systematic review, we assessed peer-reviewed studies published from 2000 to 2023 in six international databases to understand the role of race and ethnicity in leisure participation of children and youth with disabilities. The thirteen studies that met the inclusion criteria indicated that the rates of leisure participation were lower among racial/ethnic minoritized children and youth with disabilities due to disability and racial discrimination, systemic factors, limited financial resources, and cultural priorities.

System Based Solutions and Collaborations

  • Achieving Health Equity Through Social Prescribing for Children and Youth: Mapping the Evidence Base

    Presented by: Caitlin Muhl (PhD Candidate, Queen’s University)

    Additional Authors: Eleanor Cornish (MPH Student, University of Toronto); Xin Ang Zhou (MPH Student, University of Toronto); Kate Mulligan (Assistant Professor, University of Toronto); Imaan Bayoumi (Assistant Professor, Queen’s University); Rachelle Ashcroft (Associate Professor, University of Toronto); Amanda Ross-White (Health Sciences Librarian, Queen’s University); Christina Godfrey (Associate Professor, Queen’s University)

    There is growing interest in the potential of social prescribing to support health and wellbeing and achieve health equity for children and youth. We aimed to map the evidence on the use of social prescribing for children and youth. Our scoping review followed JBI methodology. Following a rigorous search, nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Quantitative and qualitative data were promising, albeit limited in both quantity and quality. Social prescribing for children and youth is still in its infancy, with a limited evidence base. However, the existing evidence is promising, offering a starting point to build a robust evidence base.

  • Assessing the Impact of Policy on Youth Vaping in Alberta

    Presented by: Amanda Hepp (Graduate Student, University of Lethbridge)

    Additional Authors: Cheryl L. Currie (Associate Professor, University of Lethbridge)

    The proliferation of e-cigarette use among youth necessitates effective regulatory responses. The popularity among youth has resulted in nicotine dependence, diminished lung function, and severe lung injury in this population. Alberta was the last province in Canada to enact policy that restricted youth access to e-cigarettes in 2021. A repeat cross-sectional study using two surveys collected in schools will assess changes in youth vaping and purchases before and after a vaping policy was implemented. This research will contribute to our understanding of the role that proximate changes in structural determinants of health can play in reducing e-cigarette use among youth.

  • Dismantling Healthcare Inequities: Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression Training for Systemic Change

    Presented by: Abimbola Saka (Director, D.A.S Innovative Hub); Zita Seshie (EDI Consultant, D.A.S Innovative Hub)

    This poster presents a comprehensive anti-racism and anti-oppression training module developed by D.A.S Innovative Hub for healthcare workers. The objective is to address the knowledge gap and equip individuals and teams with tools for change and advocacy in care delivery. Modules are grounded in recognizing systemic discrimination’s impact on patient care and staff, and they offer practical tools to dismantle oppressive structures and foster inclusivity. Key components include understanding racism and oppression, addressing implicit bias and microaggressions, and tools and resources required to promote culturally competent care, recognizing intersectionality and health disparities, advocating for equity, and creating inclusive healthcare environments.

  • Equity Considerations in Dental Health Services Utilization and Insurance Coverage in Canada for Children Under the Age of 12

    Presented by: Eefa Khan (Research Assistant, University of Manitoba)

    Using data obtained from the Open Government Portal, the study examines the distribution of dental insurance coverage for children < 12 years old, disaggregated by age group, gender and income quintile. The objective is to unveil socio-economic disparities in dental insurance coverage by various equity stratifiers in Canada

  • Fostering Health and Wellbeing and Promoting Health Equity: Findings from Canada’s First Social Prescribing Program for Children and Youth

    Presented by: Caitlin Muhl (PhD Candidate, Queen’s University); Sue Bennett (Full Professor and Director of Social Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa and Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario)

    We conducted a mixed methods program evaluation of Canada’s first social prescribing program for children and youth. Data collection included sociodemographic data, program data, semi-structured interviews, and pre and post surveys. Altogether, the program served 43 children and youth from equity-deserving communities. The program was associated with improved health and wellbeing for participants. We also found that the program fostered independence, belonging, mastery, and generosity in participants. The program brought joy in work to staff members and cultivated community connectedness. We uncovered several successes, challenges, and lessons learned, offering important insights for the field.

  • Improving Developmental Pediatric Care for Equity-Deserving Patients: Developing a Care Pathway Between a Complex Developmental Conditions Diagnostic Clinic and Social Pediatrics Program

    Presented by: Alexa Tymkiw (Medical Student, University of British Columbia)

    Additional Authors: Gurpreet Sahl (Developmental Pediatrician, Sunny Hill Health Center for Children)

    The Complex Developmental and Behavioural Conditions (CDBC) program in British Columbia diagnoses a range of complex developmental disorders in children including Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and intellectual developmental disorders. The CDBC program regularly receives referrals from the Responsive Intersectoral Child and Community Health Education and Research (RICHER) Social Pediatrics Initiative, which serves equity-deserving populations in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver, many of whom are Indigenous families. Through consultation with interprofessional CDBC stakeholders and RICHER families, this quality improvement initiative aims to provide recommendations for improved support of equity-deserving families throughout the child’s assessment for developmental and behavioural conditions.

  • Maternal Near-Miss and Quality of Care in First – Level Referral Hospitals in Inhambane, Southern Mozambique – A Mixed-Methods Study

    Presented by: Fernanda EM. Andre (Graduate Student, University of Saskatchewan)

    Additional Authors: Nazeem Muhajarine (Research Officer Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit (SPHERU), University of Saskatchewan)

    Despite a significant reduction in global trends in maternal mortality, women are still dying from preventable pregnancy-related causes and childbirth. A maternal near-miss (MNM) refers to a woman who experiences life-threatening complications during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days post-termination of pregnancy yet survives. The MNM criteria, introduced by the World Health Organization in 2011, have been tested and validated and are being used globally, with the necessary adaptations to suit local contexts. The Mozambique-Canada Maternal Health (MCMH) project conducted a cross-sectional study to investigate clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with MNM in referral hospitals in Inhambane province, Southern Mozambique.

  • Pandemic Babies: Understanding the Impact of Unemployment on Infant Communication Development in Low-Income US Families During The COVID-19 Pandemic

    Presented by: Mahala Swisterski (Graduate Student, University of Lethbridge)

    Additional Authors: Cheryl Currie (Professor, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry Western University)

    The home environment has significant impacts on infant development. Pandemic unemployment benefits may have helped eased tensions in low-income homes and improved infant development. This study used data from the Baby’s First Years Study, which collected longitudinal data from approximately 600 mother-infant dyads living in poverty between 2018-2021. Data were analyzed in Stata using linear regression and generalized estimating equations adjusting for infant sex, pandemic data collection, earned income, and the randomization term used in the dataset. When averaged across all dyads, receiving pandemic unemployment benefits increased the standardized communication score of infants by 0.16 units (95% CI: 0.02 – 0.29).

  • Voices From the Field: Service Providers’ Experiences Supporting Indigenous Families of Autistic Children

    Presented by: Margaret Schneider (Associate Professor, Wilfrid Laurier University)

    Additional Authors: Vanessa Fong (Postdoctoral Fellow, University of British Columbia); Janet McLaughlin (Associate Professor, Wilfrid Laurier University)

    Indigenous parents experience compounded challenges when accessing autism services for their children. While service providers play a crucial role in facilitating families’ access to supports, few studies have examined their perspectives. Qualitative analysis of service providers (n=15-20) in Ontario highlighted challenges related to burnout, geographic isolation and accessibility, legal and jurisdictional complexities affecting service provision, and lack of parent trust in diagnosis and treatment. Effective strategies prioritized building relationships and fostering trust, addressing childcare and transportation barriers, and providing training in trauma-informed care. Findings have important implications for policy and practice, providing actionable measures to advance equity for Indigenous families.