Do your patients have questions about osteoarthritis? The OASIS (Osteoarthritis Service Integration System) program offers free, comprehensive educational classes aimed at helping people self-manage their osteoarthritis. The interactive, motivating classes are led by a team of seasoned educators (OT, PT, nurse, and dietitian) who are skilled at communicating ways of living better with a chronic condition. Classes are offered at various locations throughout the Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) region. A referral is not needed, but registration is required. For more information about all classes, visit the OASIS website at http://oasis.vch.ca [10].

If your patient requires an individualized assessment for their osteoarthritis, a doctor’s referral is required. The OASIS program referral form is available online at http://oasis.vch.ca/media/OASIS_Physician_Referral_June2018.pdf [11]. The assessment will provide advice on whether surgery is recommended or what specific conservative measures would help manage the specified condition. Please note that this program services VCH residents and people from other health authorities who have a VCH surgeon.
—Arlaina Waisman, RD
Dietitian, Educator, OASIS Regional Office