Learning groups

Learning Groups are a place for peers to discuss and learn about a single topic. Each group includes a targeted discussion group, resources to both internal and external sites for additional information about the topic. Most learning groups also provide educational programs.

Parkinson's Disease

Description: This learning group includes all programs in the area of Parkinson's Disease including CME activities, communities of practice, and other resources.

Parkinson’s disease does not always present with tremor. The Family Physician is often the first to encounter the patient with Parkinson’s disease and needs to be familiar with and employ the tools necessary to make the differential diagnosis. However, many Family Physicians do not have an easy to use reference and Parkinson’s disease remains under-diagnosed in Primary Care. Compounding this issue is the fact that many patients may not live in an area that is served by neurologists.

Colorectal Cancer

Description: This learning group includes activities in the area of Colorectal Cancer screening and awareness.

Colorectal cancer (CRC)—cancer of the colon or rectum—is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. In 2008, The American Cancer Society estimated that 148,810 men and women would be diagnosed with CRC and 49,960 would die of the disease. The importance of early detection of CRC is evidenced by the observed differences in survival depending on the stage of disease at the time of diagnosis, 90% of which is diagnosed after age 50.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Description: This group includes all activities in the area of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease including CME activities, communities of practice, and more.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. An estimated 11.4 million adults aged 18 and over have reported a physician diagnosis of COPD. However, as many as 24 million U.S. adults have some evidence of impaired lung function, indicating an under diagnosis of the disease. Spirometry is the standard for the diagnosis and assessment of COPD, yet it is underutilized in clinical practice and many patients who could benefit from care remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

Depression

Description: This learning group includes all programs in the area of Depression including CME activities, communities of practice, and other resources.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a chronic disease that affects an estimated 5% to 14% of patients in primary care. Worldwide, MDD is the fourth leading cause of disability and is currently the leading cause of non-fatal disease burden. Projections by the World Health Organization indicate that unipolar depressive disorders will remain among the top three global causes of disability and of disease burden in 2030.

Chronic Pain

Description: This learning group includes all programs in the management of chronic pain, including CME activities, communities of practice, and other resources.