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Kathleen Pichora-Fuller elected into the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences

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SAC would like to congratulate SAC member M. Kathleen Pichora-Fuller on her election as a fellow for the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences. In 2021 Kathleen Pichora-Fuller was the recipient of SAC’s Eve Kassirer Award for Lifetime Achievement. She was chosen for this award in recognition to her long history of distinguished and dedicated service to both SAC and the profession of  audiology. Her work has fostered the development and advancement of audiology nationally and internationally. She is also currently the Chair of SAC’s Audiology Services in Long Term Care Working Group.

She is also joined by SAC member Susan Rvachew, who has received national and international recognition for outstanding professional achievements in the field of speech-language pathology practice and research.

Fellowship in the Academy is considered one of the highest honours for individuals in the Canadian health sciences community. This announcement has important implications for audiology and SAC because it provides an opportunity to lead new initiatives on various policy deliberations concerning hearing in later life, including the national dementia strategy, ageism, new models of inter-professional primary health care delivery, LTC, etc.

The Canadian Academy of Health Sciences brings together Canada’s top-ranked health and biomedical scientists and scholars to make a positive impact on the urgent health concerns of Canadians. The fellows have been drawn from all disciplines across our nation’s universities, healthcare and research institutes, evaluate Canada’s most complex health challenges and recommend strategic, actionable solutions.

 

Click here to learn more and see the full list of 2022 fellows.

SAC and Extended HealthCare Professionals Statement for Parliamentarians

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As part of the return to Parliament, SAC alongside our coalition of Extended HealthCare Professionals released the following statement for Parliamentarians :

As Members of Parliament return to Ottawa for the House of Commons fall session, the Extended Healthcare Professionals Coalition (EHPC) looks forward to collaborating with federal leaders and policy makers to address some of the most pressing healthcare issues facing Canadians. 

First and foremost on the agenda: Canada is in the middle of a healthcare human resource crisis. While much attention has been paid to hospital closures and access to primary health care, the issue is much broader and affects all parts of the healthcare delivery system, across the public and private sectors. EHPC members are committed to providing innovative solutions to address longstanding systemic pressures noting that current system challenges extend beyond physicians and nurses.
 
“The EHPC represents over 100,000 of Canada’s regulated healthcare professionals who are grappling with these challenges and have a crucial role to play in terms of identifying and implementing solutions,” said Ondina Love, Chair of the EHPC. The EHPC looks forward to working with key federal decision makers in the coming weeks and months to improve timely access to care and overall system performance for all Canadians.”
The four key recommendations which EHPC will be advancing this Fall are:
 
Address the health human resources crisis by investing in short and long-term retention and recruitment strategies for all healthcare practitioners. This includes expanding the Canada Student Loan Forgiveness Program, supporting provincial and territorial recruitment strategies, and expanded funding for educational institutions.
 

  • Ensure the long-term resiliency of the healthcare sector by improving the collection of workforce data to identify and understand labour trends and challenges within and across the public and private sectors.
  • Reduce the reliance on in-hospital care by improving access to preventative and early intervention interdisciplinary community-based primary care that includes the services provided by EHPC members such as Audiologists, Chiropractors, Dental Hygienists, Dentists, Denturists, Dietitians, Occupational Therapists, Optometrists, Pharmacists, Physiotherapists, Psychologists, Speech-Language Pathologists, and Social Workers.
  • Explore models that require Canadian employers to provide their employees with health and dental benefits to cover their health and wellness needs that are not covered by Canada’s public healthcare system.

 
“We encourage decision makers to broaden their understanding of Canada’s healthcare landscape and bring extended professionals into the conversation”, said Ms Love. “Addressing the many challenges facing healthcare in Canada, including the human resources crisis, will require all hands on deck, and our members offer the expertise and perspective needed to keep Canadians healthy and productive.”

Saskatchewan Advocacy Update August 2022

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SAC Saskatchewan Members, 

We collected and analyzed the results of the survey that was distributed to you earlier this summer. These results were shared with your regional advisory committee to set immediate priorities. We are encouraged and excited to have such accomplished and exciting committee members working on your advocacy needs!

 

The top three advocacy issues by rank were:

  1. Advocate for increased government funding for FTE positions in Speech-language Pathology and Audiology
  2. Recruitment/retention issues
  3. Advocating for expanded coverage/reimbursement from third parties

 

The top three workplace issues by rank were:

  1. Caseload/workload issues (by a wide margin)
  2. Length of waitlists to access services
  3. Lack of insurance coverage for services

 

Actions that would have the most immediate impact by rank were:

  1. Caseload/workload issues (by a wide margin)
  2. Greater recognition by third parties/other professionals/public
  3. Increased renumeration

 

It should be noted that several audiology members highlighted use of the title ”Dr.” for those with earned degrees and direct referral to ENT as priority items.

Our first meeting focused on prioritizing and brainstorming both short- and long-term advocacy goals. To that end, your Advocacy Managers for Saskatchewan have worked on the following this summer:

  • Finalizing our provincial advocacy plan, focusing on key stakeholders and messaging aligning with federal priorities such as Early Learning and Child Care, Long-Term Care, and addressing backlogs caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. To that end, we have written to and are beginning to meet with MLA’s and Assistant Deputy Ministers from several Ministries.
  •  Meeting with contacts from the U of S to determine how we can work together to address issues such as professional recognition, continuing education, and recruitment and retention issues.
  • Connecting with CAA to request an update on progress with direct referral to ENT in the province of Saskatchewan. CAA is leading this initiative for Audiology in Canada. Dave Gordey reported initial contacts have been made with key stakeholders within the province and will provide periodic updates on the status of this project.

REMINDER: Serve on SAC’s Speech-Language Pathology Services in Private Practice Working Group or SAC’s Audiologists in Private Practice Working Group

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The primary objective of the Speech-Language Pathology Services in Private Practice Working Group, hereafter referred to as the “Working Group”, is to prepare a report for the Board of Directors about professional resources required by speech-language pathology members working in private practice.

The Working Group will:

  • Review current speech-language pathology services in private practice in each province and territory including a member survey.
  • Identify issues of concern and importance.
  • Develop a report for review and approval by the SAC Board of Directors which includes a recommendation of resources to support SAC members and associates working in private practice.

Working Group Details

  • Name: Speech-Language Pathology Services in Private Practice
    Working Group
  • Purpose: To prepare a report for the Board of Directors about professional resources required by speech-language pathology members working in private practice.
  • Length of Term: Approximately 5 months (beginning in June 2022)
  • Working Language: English
  • Deadline to Apply: July 14, 2022

For a full description of the working group’s mandate, please see the terms of reference.

 

Eligibility and How to Apply

If you would like to apply to serve on SAC’s Speech-Language Pathology Services in Private Practice Working Group, please ensure you meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Be an SAC speech-language pathology member or communication health assistant associate.
  • Be available for the duration of the project.
  • Maintain your SAC membership throughout your term.

For more information about the requirements, please see the working group terms of reference.

Interested candidates should complete a Volunteer Expression of Interest Form (Word | PDF) and submit it to volunteer@sac-oac.ca by July 14, 2022.

 

The primary objective of the Audiologists in Private Practice Working Group, hereafter referred to as the “Working Group”, is to further investigate the most significant needs and current issues facing audiologists who are working in private practice. This research will be used to prepare the Working Group’s report for the Board of Directors about professional resources required by audiology members working in private practice.

The Working Group will:

  • Develop an environmental scan of private practice Audiology Service in each province and territory including a member survey.
  • Identify significant areas of concern and importance to private practice Audiologists.
  • Develop SAC’s plans to support members and associates where private practice is concerned based on the findings of the group.
  • Develop a report for both review and approval by the SAC Board of Directors.

Working Group Details

  • Name: Audiologists in Private Practice Working Group
  • Purpose: To prepare a report for the Board of Directors about professional resources required by audiology members working in private practice.
  • Length of Term: Approximately 5 months (beginning in June 2022)
  • Working Language: English
  • Deadline to Apply: July 14, 2022

For a full description of the working group’s mandate, please see the terms of reference.

 

Eligibility and How to Apply

If you would like to apply to serve on SAC’s Audiologists in Private Practice Working Group, please ensure you meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Be an SAC audiology member.
  • Be available for the duration of the project.
  • Maintain your SAC membership throughout your term.

For more information about the requirements, please see the working group terms of reference.

Interested candidates should complete a Volunteer Expression of Interest Form (Word | PDF) and submit it to volunteer@sac-oac.ca by July 14, 2022.

 

 

 

Call for Members: SAC Regional Advisory Committee – Alberta & Saskatchewan

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Join SAC’s Regional Advisory Committee!

SAC is calling for volunteers for an Alberta and Saskatchewan regional advisory group. As part of supporting and informing the work of the Alberta and Saskatchewan provincial advocacy managers, SAC is calling for volunteers for an Alberta and Saskatchewan Regional Advisory Committee.  Members who sit on each respective group will have the opportunity to advise the provincial advocacy managers on their priorities and messaging. These regional advisory groups are vital to ensuring that the advocacy work of each province is guided by the input and needs of our members.

SAC encourages applications from members who identify as First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, members of visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and those who identify as gender diverse. Members with experience working with marginalized populations and knowledge of cultural safety and humility are also helpful to support the Board.  SAC is committed to achieving a diverse directorship representative of the public it serves and being inclusive towards all.
 

APPLY NOW

Terms of Reference – Alberta

Terms of Reference – Saskatchewan

DEADLINE TO APPLY IS May 18, 2022

If you have questions regarding the application process please contact us by email, at volunteer@sac-oac.ca.

 

SAC’s 2022-2023 Director-Student Board Nomination

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Join the SAC Board of Directors as this year’s Director-Student, the 2022-2023 nomination application is now open!

Our student associates represent the future of our member professions and the association; so, we really care what you think. We stay plugged in to what you need through our Director-Student. The Director-Student is an SAC student associate who has been elected to represent student associates on the SAC Board of Directors.

 

What is the role of the Director? The Director is a liaison between the universities’ student associates and the Board of Directors. The primary function of the Director is to:

  1. Support and help influence the future growth and well-being of the association and its members and associates.
  2. Act and make decisions based on the best interests of the association and its members and associates nationally.
  3. Commit the time and energy required to fulfill duties and responsibilities to the best of her/his ability.
  4. Contribute to the skills-based Board.
  5. Foster a constructive working environment through a supportive and positive attitude.
  6. Support efficiency and effectiveness by nurturing an environment that focuses on outcomes and results, not activities

 

If you would like more information about taking on this leadership role and becoming Director-Student please contact our current Director, Lisa Nguyen at, director-student@sac-oac.ca.

If you have questions regarding the application process please contact us by email at volunteer@sac-oac.ca.

 

SAC’s 2022-2023 Board of Directors Nomination Cycle

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Join the SAC Board of Directors, the 2022-2023 application process is now open!

Applying to be on SAC’s Board of Directors provides you an opportunity to play a key role in helping SAC achieve its strategic goals and objectives, have the voice of your profession heard, learn new skills and competencies and expand your network. 
 

In 2022, there will be three (3) Director vacancies on the Board, one Director-Member (Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology), One Director-Communication Health Assistant and one Director-Student. Please note: The current Director-Communication Health Assistant (Gillian Purdy) will be standing for re-election.
 

Board terms are for a period of three years (2022-2025). SAC follows a competency-based model for our Board. While we encourage all interested members to apply, we are particularly seeking individuals with knowledge, experience, skills and attributes in the following areas.
 

  • Governance, Financial Management, Human Resources, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
     

Only two Directors may serve on the Board from each province or territory. In 2022 SAC will not be accepting any applications from British Columbia. 
 

The Nominations Committee encourages applications from members who identify as First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, members of visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and those who identify as gender diverse. Members with experience working with marginalized populations and knowledge of cultural safety and humility are also helpful to support the Board.  SAC is committed to achieving a diverse directorship representative of the public it serves and being inclusive towards all.
 

Please watch this video from one of our current Board Directors regarding their experience! 
 

If you would like more information about being a Director-Member please contact our current Chair, Shari Linde at, chair@sac-oac.ca.
 

If you would like more information about being a Director-Communication Health Assistant please contact our current Director, Gillian Purdy at volunteer@sac-oac.ca. 
 

If you would like more information about being a Director-Student please contact our current Director, Lisa Nguyen at, director-student@sac-oac.ca.
 

If you have questions regarding the application process please contact us by email, at volunteer@sac-oac.ca.
 

 

Hearing Health Services for Older Adults: A Survey for SAC Members and Associates

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SAC’s Audiology Services in Long-Term Care Working Group is conducting a survey to gather information about the current and future possibilities for hearing care for older adults, including services in the long-term care setting. This is a part of our advocacy efforts in response to the development of the National Long-Term Care Standards.

Please respond by Sunday, February 6, 2022.

The survey link can be found here.

 

Apply to Become an SAC Audiology Adsivor – Tinnitus

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Speech-Language and Audiology Canada logo Communicating care

 

POSITION TITLE:                          

Audiology Advisor – Tinnitus (7 hours/week for 18 months)

 

REPORTS TO:                               

Director of Audiology

 

SCOPE OF POSITION

The part-time Audiology Advisor – Tinnitus provides assistance, expertise and guidance to SAC staff, members and associates regarding issues related to tinnitus and sound tolerance disorders. They will facilitate an ad hoc committee serving as the staff liaison.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

General

  • Provides staff support to the Tinnitus and Sound Tolerance Disorders Ad Hoc Committee to facilitate the preparation of a position paper on that topic.
  • Advises the Director of Audiology on issues related to tinnitus and sound tolerance disorders.
  • Prepares background materials in areas of responsibility.
  • Participates in staff and board meetings as required.
  • Contributes to the SAC publications as appropriate.
  • Prepares reports for the Board and committees as needed.
  • Provides staff support and facilitates ad hoc committees in the development of position papers, statements, etc.
  • Contributes to the SAC professional development program.
  • Supports the Communications Department by developing content for and reviewing audiology materials such as infographics, webpages, blog submissions, information sheets, Speech & Hearing Month materials and other documents, as needed.
  • Responds to requests from members and associates regarding audiology issues in tinnitus and sound tolerance disorders.
  • Manages additional assigned projects for audiology as needed from time to time.

 

CONTACTS

Internal Contacts

  • Staff at all levels

 

External Contacts

  • National and Provincial/Territorial associations, regulatory bodies and international professional associations
  • Related professional bodies
  • Members and associates
  • Public

 

DECISION-MAKING AUTHORITY

  • Organizes workload and sets own priorities to meet deadlines on concurrent activities.
  • Recommends actions and procedural and policy changes as appropriate and necessary.
  • Makes independent decisions, as appropriate, related to the above responsibilities.

 

FORMAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING

  • Minimum of a master’s degree in audiology or equivalent.
  • SAC member.
  • Registered with the applicable professional regulatory body.

 

EXPERIENCE

  • A minimum of 3 years clinical experience in tinnitus and sound tolerance disorders.
  • Research experience is an asset.

 

KEY SKILLS

Proficiency in:

  • Knowledge of the scope of clinical practice for audiologists providing services to people with tinnitus and sound tolerance disorders, as well as trends in professional development.
  • Superior written and oral communications skills.
  • Project management.
  • Ability to make decisions and work independently and collaboratively.
  • Ability to research, analyze and synthesize information.
  • Superior organizational and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to respect strict confidentiality.
  • Discretion and sound judgment.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines on multiple projects.
  • Ability to work with professionals of many different levels.
  • Ability to delegate responsibility and supervise.
  • Computer literate.

     

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bilingual (English and French).
  • SAC Clinical Certification.

 

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

The work within the scope of this position requires an individual with a flexible work schedule, who can work some evenings/weekends, when required. This is a remote position. The individual may be based anywhere in Canada

 

HOW TO APPLY

Please send a cover letter along with your résumé to Amy Childs at amy@sac-oac.ca with SAC Advisor Application in the subject line.

The closing date for applications is January 25, 2022.



SAC encourages applications from members who identify as First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, members of visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and those who identify as gender diverse. Members with experience working with marginalized populations and knowledge of cultural safety and humility would also be helpful to support our work.  SAC is committed to achieving a diverse representation on all committees and working groups and being inclusive towards all.

Please note: We thank all applicants for their interest in this position. However, we will only contact candidates we have selected for an interview. 

 

 

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