Virtual health communities for Canadians


Researchers with the UBC Centre for Chronic Disease Prevention and Management (CCDPM) have teamed up with digital health company Curatio to provide Canadians with virtual health support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Stronger Together is a project that uses a social networking health app to connect patients with free online evidence-based health resources, in-app coaching, peer-to-peer support, and private social health communities designed for patients who are managing a health condition during COVID-19, along with caretakers and parents who may be feeling a lack of support during the pandemic.

In addition to contributing expert content, CCDPM researchers will assist with program evaluation for the platform’s nine different public communities (cardiovascular health and well-being, disability and physical activity, stroke recovery, keeping mentally strong with multiple myeloma, respiratory health and well-being, prostate cancer, 4+2 diabetes reversal, plan to move your kids, and parenting during COVID-19). Patients may access the health communities to connect with others on a private secure network to reduce feelings of isolation and vulnerability during the pandemic.

Individuals may register for free at www.curatio.me/strongertogether. By joining the platform, participants will assist researchers in learning how to best offer virtual health support and contribute to Curatio’s program development.

Stronger Together is supported by an investment from the Digital Technology Supercluster, which brings together private and public sector organizations to address challenges facing Canada’s economic sectors including health care, natural resources, manufacturing, and transportation.

. Virtual health communities for Canadians. BCMJ, Vol. 63, No. 1, January, February, 2021, Page(s) 26 - News.



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