A locally developed, noninvasive skin cancer detection technology is now available in Canada, Europe, and Australia for use by dermatologists and GPs with a special interest in skin cancer. The device, called the Verisante Aura, has been installed in four dermatology clinics across Canada so far—in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, and Oakville.
The Verisante Aura was developed by researchers and dermatologists at the BC Cancer Agency and the UBC Faculty of Medicine. The device uses laser technology (Raman spectroscopy) to scan a mole or lesion to detect cancerous cells.
Every year for the past 17 years UBC medical and dental students have put on a spring gala to raise money for charity and showcase their talents. To show my support, I not only purchased a ticket, but got tickets for my whole family. By the end of the night, I turned to my mom and told her that maybe I shouldn’t have given up the violin lessons—maybe then I could have had something to contribute to this amazing event.
“All of these students are either medical or dental students?” my sister asked.
I am presently the DHL (department head local) for hospitalist service in an FHA hospital. I totally agree with all the sentiments expressed in Dr Verchere’s editorial [“Who wants to be a department head? BCMJ 2013;55:134]. What a great insight! These jobs are difficult, thankless, poorly paid, and underappreciated by colleagues and health authorities. However, they are essential and need to be done by smart stakeholders—however busy our main job is.
I have been doing locums half time for the past 4 years. Prior to that I worked as a full-service family physician and as a medical coordinator at a care home for 25 years. I agree completely with Dr Eppler’s letter [BCMJ 2013;55:184] that there seems to be much unnecessary prescribing of statins to people near the end of life.
I want to thank Ms Vance for taking the time to respond to my editorial regarding the BC Pharmacy Association’s proposals to government. We both agree that all health care professionals need to do their part in providing patient-centred, safe, accessible care.
