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Amplifying community voices through art at St. Michael’s Hospital
St Micheal’s new art installation to promote their anti-racism values. The art installation was made through a committee of staff, patients and partners. They prioritized adding art made by BIPOC artists. The objective of the art installation was to promote well-being and inclusivity.
By: Unity Health
Transgender 18-year old attemps top surgery on himself at home due to lack of access
Several religious groups filed a case against Missouri enforcing its abortion law because it was said to violate the constitution. They are particularly referring to a section that references God and the right to life. Even though the language appears to be religious, the judge says that belief that life starts at conception isn’t inherently religious. Missouri’s abortion law is that unless there is a medical emergency it is a crime to perform an abortion, with repercussions to women who have these procedures done as well
By: RNZ News
Meet Marienette Bergantinos, concierge, Evanston Summit
Marienette Bergantinos, a concierge at Evanston Summit, a Covenant Living site in Calgary, values every interaction with residents and their families. She sees it as an opportunity to strengthen bonds. She dedicates time daily to greet and speak with residents to prioritize these interactions. Her commitment to enhancing operations and increasing efficiency has earned her a nomination for Covenant's 2024 Mission Award for Stewardship. Marienette's journey with Covenant began in 2022, driven by a passion for helping others. She highlights the supportive organizational culture at Covenant, emphasizing the importance of compassionate care and community building.
By: Peter Rybar
Vatican’s declaration of gender-affirming surgery and surrogacy as grave violations of human dignity denounced by critic
The Vatican released a declaration titled "Infinite Dignity," condemning gender-affirming surgery, surrogacy, and gender theory as grave violations of human dignity on par with abortion and euthanasia. Despite Pope Francis' previous outreach to the LGBTQ community, the document reaffirmed the Church's rejection of "gender ideologies." LGBTQ advocates criticized the document as outdated and harmful, warning of its potential impact on transgender individuals. The Vatican's stance contrasts with President Biden's support for LGBTQ rights, although the White House acknowledged the Vatican's call to protect LGBTQ individuals from violence and imprisonment. The release of the document coincides with a rise in hostility towards transgender individuals, particularly in the United States, where state legislatures are considering bills restricting medical care for transgender youths.
By: Nicole Winfeild
‘Our lord and saviour': Saskatoon doctor allegedly tried to talk patient out of abortion for religious reasons
A Saskatoon doctor, Davids, faces scrutiny for allegedly making uncomfortable religious comments to a patient, leading to charges by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan on February 13. The complaint highlights a distressing interaction during a medical consultation, where Davids made remarks about the patient's deceased relatives caring for her baby in heaven and urged her to believe in 'our lord and saviour.'
By: Rory MacLean
Conscience rights’ battle rages in Nova Scotia
The article focuses on Christian physicians in Nova Scotia who are opposing a policy by the province’s College of Physicians and Surgeons that would require them to refer patients for euthanasia, abortion, and gender-affirming medical services. The policy could result in disciplinary action or loss of medical licenses for physicians who refuse to comply. The Christian Medical and Dental Association of Canada (CMDA) is fighting this proposal, emphasizing the integration of Christian faith into medical practice.
Despite conflicting statements from the college, indicating initially no intention of these policies, consultations are now underway. The CMDA questions the necessity of referrals when resources are already accessible to patients and sees the policy as potentially coercive towards Christian physicians
By: Luke Mandato
Quebec judge won't exempt church-supported palliative care home from MAID law
A Superior Court judge in Montreal denied the Roman Catholic archdiocese's request for an exemption to a Quebec law mandating all palliative care centres to offer MAiD. Justice Catherine Piche ruled that Quebecers' right to choose their medical care, including MAiD, outweighs any infringement on religious freedom. The archdiocese argued that the law violated their religious beliefs, particularly at St. Raphael's palliative care home, which operates in a former church owned by the archdiocese. Despite acknowledging the moral dilemma for some Catholic supporters, the judge ruled against granting an exemption.
By: Jacob Serebrin
‘Constantly be curious’: Rev. Bob Bond reflects on a career as Niagara Health chaplain
The article focuses on Christian physicians in Nova Scotia who are opposing a policy by the province’s College of Physicians and Surgeons that would require them to refer patients for euthanasia, abortion, and gender-affirming medical services. The policy could result in disciplinary action or loss of medical licenses for physicians who refuse to comply. The Christian Medical and Dental Association of Canada (CMDA) is fighting this proposal, emphasizing the integration of Christian faith into medical practice. Despite conflicting statements from the college, indicating initially no intention of these policies, consultations are now underway. The CMDA questions the necessity of referrals when resources are already accessible to patients and sees the policy as potentially coercive toward Christian physicians.
By: Niagara Health
The Powerful Constraints on Medical Care in Catholic Hospitals Across America
The article highlights a case involving a pregnant woman whose water broke prematurely, presenting a situation where her fetus had little chance of survival. Despite the woman's wishes to end the pregnancy, she was unable to receive intervention due to the hospital's adherence to Catholic directives that prohibit procedures like abortion. It highlights instances where patients are turned away from necessary care due to religious constraints, particularly in Catholic hospitals. Despite medical recommendations, patients may face delays or denials in receiving appropriate care, posing risks to their health.
By: Rachana Pradhan, Hannah Recht
Canada’s public health system is not equal for all
Canada's public health system, though founded on principles of equality and diversity, exhibits systemic biases adversely affecting Black Canadians. Studies reveal experiences of dehumanization, negligent communication, and unequal access to care among Black patients, leading to diminished trust and underutilization of healthcare services. These disparities are further exacerbated by socioeconomic barriers and a lack of culturally sensitive support systems. Addressing these issues is crucial for achieving true healthcare equity and reform in Canada.
By: Rayana Jamasi
Canadian bishops warn government ‘fully committed’ to expanding assisted suicide
In this article, there is a focus on the proposed expansion on MAiD. The decision, criticized by Canada’s Catholic bishops, highlights concerns about the readiness of the healthcare system to support vulnerable individuals. The bishops oppose assisted suicide, emphasizing the sanctity of life and advocating for increased investment in mental health resources. Despite the pressure, Catholic healthcare institutions maintain their stance against participating in assisted suicide, asserting their commitment to Catholic teachings.
By: John Lavenburg
Ordinary Catholics must rise up against MAiD
This article discusses anti-euthanasia education material being delivered by parishes to Canadians. It addresses the efforts of the Christian Medical Dental Association and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Sherwood, working together to bring an end to MAiD policies in Canada through lectures and open discussions. In Edmonton, those in Catholic leadership positions are aiming to demand better support to keep 'living patients living' rather than turning to MAiD.
By: Quinton Amundson
Access to MAiD should not cater to faith-based interests
This article criticizes the B.C. Ministry of Health's plan to accommodate MAiD services at St. Paul's Hospital. The author argues that the proposed solution (which involves creating a separate space for MAiD services due to the hospital's Catholic affiliation) is unconstitutional. The article highlights concerns about patient suffering caused by forced transfers, challenges to patient-centred care, and the infringement of constitutional rights in faith-based healthcare settings. There is emphasis on a redesign of the plan to prioritize patient needs over religious considerations.
By: Jocelyn Downie, Daphne Gilbert
Catholic Church challenging Quebec MAID law in court on religious freedom grounds
The lawsuit discussed in the article argues that the Catholic Church should be exempt from a section of the law requiring all palliative care homes in the province to offer medical assistance in dying. It claims the law forces the church into an unsolvable dilemma: either cease supporting its palliative care center or "accept that their property, a former church, be used to carry out acts they consider morally unacceptable."
By: Jacob Serebrin
Is the Catholic church getting "bailed out" when it comes to MAID in BC?
St. Paul’s Hospital in BC is now offering MAiD, but the process is complicated due to its affiliation with Providence Healthcare, a faith-based organization. Critics, including Dying with Dignity, argue that the current setup, requiring transfers to a separate facility, causes unnecessary suffering and delays. Many healthcare professionals support MAiD but are restricted by religious policies. The BC Ministry of Health has responded with plans for a dedicated MAiD space by 2024. However, critics like Scott Harrison believe more immediate solutions are needed, questioning the province's political will to resolve the issue.
By: Amir Ali
National Catholic Health Care Week: We Carry On The Healing Ministry of Jesus
National Catholic Health Care Week takes place Feb. 4-10. This article emphasizes the importance in marking the occasion, so Canada does not lose sight of "the extraordinary gift that we have in our country of Catholic health care."
It also discusses the sense of the dignity and sanctity of every human life, which Catholic healthcare principles stand on. The Archdiocese of Edmonton released a message for the 2024 celebration, titled ‘Hope and Dignity: A Catholic Response to Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide.’
By: The Archdiocese of Edmonton
Pro-Euthanasia Activists to Sue Catholic Hospital in Canada
Pro-euthanasia activists, supported by Dying with Dignity Canada, are preparing to sue St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver for its refusal to provide medical assistance in dying (MAiD) within its facilities. The lawsuit challenges the hospital's adherence to Catholic ethical guidelines that oppose euthanasia. This legal action highlights the tension between secular advocacy groups and religious healthcare institutions regarding the provision of assisted suicide services in Canada.
By: Thomas McKenna
MAiD for mental illness must be stopped, not paused, Catholic and legal experts say
Archbishop J. Michael Miller welcomed the federal government's decision to delay the expansion of MAiD for individuals with mental illness but expressed disappointment that the government still intends to proceed with the expansion in the future. Advocates said the delay is not a victory, as proponents of MAiD are likely to continue their efforts during the pause. Legal experts and advocacy groups argue for a permanent pause on the expansion.
Phil Horgan, Catholic Civil Rights League: "The 'system' has gone far beyond anything contemplated by our Supreme Court. Perhaps some humility is in order."
By: The B.C. Catholic
Atlantic Health, Saint Peter's Healthcare announce merger plans
In June 2024, Atlantic Health System and Saint Peter's Healthcare System signed a definitive agreement to merge, aiming to enhance healthcare services in central New Jersey. Pending approvals from federal, state, and Church authorities, Atlantic Health will become the sole corporate member of Saint Peter's, which will retain its Catholic mission and identity. The merger plans include implementing Atlantic Health's Epic electronic health record system at Saint Peter's to improve care efficiency and safety. Additionally, significant capital investments are planned to expand outpatient services and strengthen integrated clinical offerings.
By: Susan Loyer
Letters: Questions about St.Paul’s Hospital
Letters to the editor highlight the disapproval of MAiD in the Catholic healthcare community. "Hospital staff need to be educated to stand strong against any compliance with this evil and know their right to conscience protection."
"Our bishops need to call everyone to urgently fast and pray for the end of this scourge of MAID happening in most Canadian hospitals now, or adjacent to them."
By: Letters to the Editor