Brian F. J. RUDRICK (1959 - 2013)
May 01 2013
Dr. Brian RUDRICK, pathologist and laboratory director at Grey Bruce Health Services and South Grey Bruce Health Centre died in Owen Sound, ON on 17 March 2013. Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada announcement.
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May 01 2013
Dr. Brian RUDRICK, pathologist and laboratory director at Grey Bruce Health Services and South Grey Bruce Health Centre died in Owen Sound, ON on 17 March 2013. Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada announcement.
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Doctors report cause of death incorrectly too often, pathologist says
April 12 2013
An estimated 20 to 50 per cent of death certificates are incorrect, a pathologist says. CBC News story.
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April 12 2013
An estimated 20 to 50 per cent of death certificates are incorrect, a pathologist says. CBC News story.
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Allan J. NOBLE (1929 - 2013)
April 02 2013
Dr. Allan NOBLE, former chief pathologist at Scarborough Centenary Hospital, died in Stouffville, ON on 10 January 2013. Canadian Medical Association Journal announcement.
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April 02 2013
Dr. Allan NOBLE, former chief pathologist at Scarborough Centenary Hospital, died in Stouffville, ON on 10 January 2013. Canadian Medical Association Journal announcement.
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Ralph William SHAW (1935 - 2013)
March 19 2013
Dr. Ralph SHAW, former pathologist at North York General Hospital, died in Toronto, ON on 08 January 2013. Canadian Medical Association Journal announcement.
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March 19 2013
Dr. Ralph SHAW, former pathologist at North York General Hospital, died in Toronto, ON on 08 January 2013. Canadian Medical Association Journal announcement.
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Hospital mourns popular pathologist
March 18 2013
Colleagues of pathologist Dr. Brian Rudrick remember the popular and well-liked doctor, who died of a massive stroke on 17 March 2013 at the age of 53. Owen Sound Sun Times article.
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March 18 2013
Colleagues of pathologist Dr. Brian Rudrick remember the popular and well-liked doctor, who died of a massive stroke on 17 March 2013 at the age of 53. Owen Sound Sun Times article.
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Dr. Brian RUDRICK BA MD FRCPC - Obituary and Book of Condolences
March 18 2013
Obituary and Book of Condolences for the late Dr. Brian RUDRICK.
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March 18 2013
Obituary and Book of Condolences for the late Dr. Brian RUDRICK.
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John P. BURKE (1923 - 2012)
March 05 2013
Dr. John P. BURKE, former director of laboratories at Montfort Hospital, died in Ottawa, ON on 09 December 2012. Canadian Medical Association Journal announcement.
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March 05 2013
Dr. John P. BURKE, former director of laboratories at Montfort Hospital, died in Ottawa, ON on 09 December 2012. Canadian Medical Association Journal announcement.
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Medical laboratories in Newfoundland and Labrador achieve accreditation
March 01 2013
As of January 11, 2013, all medical laboratories in Newfoundland and Labrador hold Ontario Laboratory Accreditation (OLA) accreditation certificates for the ISO 15189 standard for medical laboratories. QMP-LS Newsletter article.
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March 01 2013
As of January 11, 2013, all medical laboratories in Newfoundland and Labrador hold Ontario Laboratory Accreditation (OLA) accreditation certificates for the ISO 15189 standard for medical laboratories. QMP-LS Newsletter article.
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Pap tests at age 25 too late say ob-gyns
February 22 2013
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada and two related medical organizations are taking issue with a national task force's recommendations that women wait until age 25 to start cervical cancer screening. CBC News story.
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February 22 2013
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada and two related medical organizations are taking issue with a national task force's recommendations that women wait until age 25 to start cervical cancer screening. CBC News story.
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Ontario pathology service facing deadline to match autopsy organs to families
February 12 2013
Nearly 4,000 human organs removed during autopsies dating back to the 1970s are sitting unclaimed in medical storage across the province — and time is running out for families to claim them. Toronto Star story.
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February 12 2013
Nearly 4,000 human organs removed during autopsies dating back to the 1970s are sitting unclaimed in medical storage across the province — and time is running out for families to claim them. Toronto Star story.
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Low autopsy rate in B.C. alarms experts
February 06 2013
British Columbia has the lowest autopsy rate in Canada, raising concern among some experts that too many deaths in the province — and even possible homicides — are inadequately investigated. CBC News story.
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February 06 2013
British Columbia has the lowest autopsy rate in Canada, raising concern among some experts that too many deaths in the province — and even possible homicides — are inadequately investigated. CBC News story.
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Questions Left for Mississippi Over Pathologist’s Autopsies
January 07 2013
In courthouses around Mississippi, petitions have been quietly submitted on behalf of people in prison arguing that they were wrongfully convicted on the basis of a pathologist’s testimony. New York Times story.
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January 07 2013
In courthouses around Mississippi, petitions have been quietly submitted on behalf of people in prison arguing that they were wrongfully convicted on the basis of a pathologist’s testimony. New York Times story.
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New cervical cancer screening guideline says start Pap tests later, screen less often
January 07 2013
Doctors should stop ordering yearly Pap tests for most women, and routine screening for cervical cancer in younger women should be abandoned altogether, a federal task force is recommending in an updated guideline for cervical cancer screening released by the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care. Ottawa Citizen story.
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January 07 2013
Doctors should stop ordering yearly Pap tests for most women, and routine screening for cervical cancer in younger women should be abandoned altogether, a federal task force is recommending in an updated guideline for cervical cancer screening released by the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care. Ottawa Citizen story.
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Unnecessary Pap tests given to women with hysterectomy
January 04 2013
Many women who have had total hysterectomies are still getting screened for cervical cancer, a U.S. report into Pap testing finds, indicating unnecessary screening in a majority of this population. CBC News story.
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January 04 2013
Many women who have had total hysterectomies are still getting screened for cervical cancer, a U.S. report into Pap testing finds, indicating unnecessary screening in a majority of this population. CBC News story.
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Dismissed Case Raises Questions On Shaken Baby Diagnosis
December 21 2012
Scientific knowledge about child deaths is changing, and it has come to be understood there are many alternative possibilities to what's often thought to be deliberate and violent shaking. National Public Radio story.
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December 21 2012
Scientific knowledge about child deaths is changing, and it has come to be understood there are many alternative possibilities to what's often thought to be deliberate and violent shaking. National Public Radio story.
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Cervical cancer screens may offer little value before age 25
December 19 2012
New research suggests young Canadian women probably are undergoing too many Pap tests. CBC News story.
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December 19 2012
New research suggests young Canadian women probably are undergoing too many Pap tests. CBC News story.
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Evidence Mounts Linking Head Hits To Permanent Brain Injury
December 03 2012
Researchers at Boston University have found more evidence supporting a link between repeated knocks to the head and chronic brain disease, adding weight to concerns about the effect of repeated mild head trauma in athletes, whether they're pros or peewees. National Public Radio story.
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December 03 2012
Researchers at Boston University have found more evidence supporting a link between repeated knocks to the head and chronic brain disease, adding weight to concerns about the effect of repeated mild head trauma in athletes, whether they're pros or peewees. National Public Radio story.
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Alberta officials refute pathologist’s defence of ‘unreasonable’ findings
November 30 2012
Alberta Justice and Solicitor General officials provided details of how an expert panel was assembled and conducted its review of a former Calgary pathologist’s findings. Calgary Herald article.
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November 30 2012
Alberta Justice and Solicitor General officials provided details of how an expert panel was assembled and conducted its review of a former Calgary pathologist’s findings. Calgary Herald article.
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Calgary pathologist made mistakes in 13 files, including some criminal cases
November 29 2012
Justice officials reviewing the work of a former forensic pathologist in Alberta have found mistakes in 13 of 14 cases. Calgary Herald story.
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November 29 2012
Justice officials reviewing the work of a former forensic pathologist in Alberta have found mistakes in 13 of 14 cases. Calgary Herald story.
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Review finds Calgary pathologist's findings 'unreasonable'
November 29 2012
Alberta Justice has found serious problems with the work of a former Calgary forensic pathologist. An independent review by the government agency concluded that in more than a dozen cases, the pathologist came to unreasonable conclusions. CBC News story.
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November 29 2012
Alberta Justice has found serious problems with the work of a former Calgary forensic pathologist. An independent review by the government agency concluded that in more than a dozen cases, the pathologist came to unreasonable conclusions. CBC News story.
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Scientists Get A New Look At Einstein's Brain
November 23 2012
Previously unpublished photographs taken by autopsy pathologist Thomas Harvey of Einstein's brain soon after he died are now available for analysis. National Public Radio story.
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November 23 2012
Previously unpublished photographs taken by autopsy pathologist Thomas Harvey of Einstein's brain soon after he died are now available for analysis. National Public Radio story.
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Pathologists' takeover of Ontario death probes nixed but coroners still fret
November 21 2012
Forensic pathologists will likely be given an expanded role in Ontario death investigations that will fall far short of what they wanted. Nevertheless, coroners continue to fret that pathologists have not given up on a quest to take over entirely. Canadian Press article.
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November 21 2012
Forensic pathologists will likely be given an expanded role in Ontario death investigations that will fall far short of what they wanted. Nevertheless, coroners continue to fret that pathologists have not given up on a quest to take over entirely. Canadian Press article.
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B.C. review into health errors cast as guide for Alberta
November 14 2012
The author of an influential report on radiology problems in British Columbia says Alberta is on the right track probing issues with credentialing within radiology and pathology, but has work to do synthesizing services for the provincewide health delivery system. Calgary Herald story.
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November 14 2012
The author of an influential report on radiology problems in British Columbia says Alberta is on the right track probing issues with credentialing within radiology and pathology, but has work to do synthesizing services for the provincewide health delivery system. Calgary Herald story.
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Report critical of hiring practices after Edmonton pathologist misreads biopsies
November 14 2012
A Royal Alexandra Hospital pathologist had little experience reading prostate biopsies before being hired into a temporary position that required reading dozens such tests, says a new report into the case of 34 misread cancer tests in the summer of 2011. Edmonton Journal story.
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November 14 2012
A Royal Alexandra Hospital pathologist had little experience reading prostate biopsies before being hired into a temporary position that required reading dozens such tests, says a new report into the case of 34 misread cancer tests in the summer of 2011. Edmonton Journal story.
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Botched Alberta cancer tests no surprise to former head pathologist
November 11 2012
The former head pathologist of the Tom Baker Cancer Centre says he’s not surprised 3 cases of botched cancer tests were found in a recent probe of 2 provincial hospitals and a Calgary laboratory. Calgary Herald story.
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November 11 2012
The former head pathologist of the Tom Baker Cancer Centre says he’s not surprised 3 cases of botched cancer tests were found in a recent probe of 2 provincial hospitals and a Calgary laboratory. Calgary Herald story.
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Faulty Alberta cancer tests came amid plunging staff morale, watchdog finds
November 08 2012
Three batches of badly processed cancer tests came amid plunging morale and strained relationships between Rockyview General Hospital pathologists and managers at a newly-centralized city laboratory, Alberta’s Health watchdog reported Thursday. Calgary Herald story.
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November 08 2012
Three batches of badly processed cancer tests came amid plunging morale and strained relationships between Rockyview General Hospital pathologists and managers at a newly-centralized city laboratory, Alberta’s Health watchdog reported Thursday. Calgary Herald story.
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Sloppy hiring at Edmonton hospital led to mistakes in cancer tests: report
November 08 2012
Slipshod management led to the hiring of a temporary pathologist who misdiagnosed biopsies for cancer patients at an Edmonton hospital. Canadian Press article.
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November 08 2012
Slipshod management led to the hiring of a temporary pathologist who misdiagnosed biopsies for cancer patients at an Edmonton hospital. Canadian Press article.
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Review calls for fixes to Alberta's medical testing
November 07 2012
An independent review of medical screening and testing in Alberta has found some inconsistencies affecting how doctors are allowed to do their jobs, but health-care officials in the province are pledging to fix the problems and offering reassurance that patients are not at risk. Globe and Mail story.
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November 07 2012
An independent review of medical screening and testing in Alberta has found some inconsistencies affecting how doctors are allowed to do their jobs, but health-care officials in the province are pledging to fix the problems and offering reassurance that patients are not at risk. Globe and Mail story.
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Health probe into Alberta pathology errors finds inconsistencies, poor communication
November 07 2012
An independent review of pathology and diagnostic imaging in Alberta has found poor communication between the provincial health superboard and physician licensing body, and inconsistencies throughout the province on how doctor privileges are awarded. Calgary Herald article.
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November 07 2012
An independent review of pathology and diagnostic imaging in Alberta has found poor communication between the provincial health superboard and physician licensing body, and inconsistencies throughout the province on how doctor privileges are awarded. Calgary Herald article.
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Provincewide standards for pathologists, radiologists, will help protect patients, Alberta health minister says
November 07 2012
An Alberta review of policies that govern the practices of pathologists and radiologists, specialists in diagnostic tests found all doctors in these 2 specialties are appropriately trained, but there is great variance in how practice privileges are granted in each hospital across the province, especially for radiologists. Edmonton Journal article.
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November 07 2012
An Alberta review of policies that govern the practices of pathologists and radiologists, specialists in diagnostic tests found all doctors in these 2 specialties are appropriately trained, but there is great variance in how practice privileges are granted in each hospital across the province, especially for radiologists. Edmonton Journal article.
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Coroners fear death-probe system 'sabotage' as Ontario ponders changes
November 01 2012
A behind-the-scenes struggle between Ontario coroners and forensic pathologists could lead to a major overhaul of the way deaths are investigated in the province. Canadian Press story.
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November 01 2012
A behind-the-scenes struggle between Ontario coroners and forensic pathologists could lead to a major overhaul of the way deaths are investigated in the province. Canadian Press story.
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Museum Teaches Anatomy And Disease With Ghoulish Body Part Bake-Off
October 28 2012
St. Bartholomews Pathology Museum in the U.K. hosted a pathology-themed bake sale. National Public Radio story with photo album.
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October 28 2012
St. Bartholomews Pathology Museum in the U.K. hosted a pathology-themed bake sale. National Public Radio story with photo album.
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Looking For Ways To Recruit Forensic Pathologists
August 09 2012
Television crime dramas may draw big audiences, but they don't seem to work as a recruiting tool for forensic pathologists. Dwindling numbers of these medical specialists who perform autopsies to determine the cause of death, whether from disease or foul play, have implications for the health care system that don't show up in the plot lines of CBS' "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" or "Quincy". National Public Radio story.
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August 09 2012
Television crime dramas may draw big audiences, but they don't seem to work as a recruiting tool for forensic pathologists. Dwindling numbers of these medical specialists who perform autopsies to determine the cause of death, whether from disease or foul play, have implications for the health care system that don't show up in the plot lines of CBS' "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" or "Quincy". National Public Radio story.
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Skydiving is not always fun, and other life lessons from the dead
July 01 2012
Being a junior pathology technician at the Medical Examiner’s Office taught a lot about life and was "the coolest summer job ever." From the National Post's Summer Job series, tales of that annual Canadian rite of passage for young people taking their first dip in the labour pool.
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July 01 2012
Being a junior pathology technician at the Medical Examiner’s Office taught a lot about life and was "the coolest summer job ever." From the National Post's Summer Job series, tales of that annual Canadian rite of passage for young people taking their first dip in the labour pool.
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Inside The Lives Of Death Investigators
June 14 2012
Death investigators — who can be medical examiners, forensic pathologists, or appointed officials — work to determine the cause and manner of deaths. In some cases, new technology allows investigators to re-examine old cases and bring closure to families looking for answers. National Public Radio's "Talk of the Nation" transcript.
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June 14 2012
Death investigators — who can be medical examiners, forensic pathologists, or appointed officials — work to determine the cause and manner of deaths. In some cases, new technology allows investigators to re-examine old cases and bring closure to families looking for answers. National Public Radio's "Talk of the Nation" transcript.
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Forensic Autopsy Organ Retention in Ontario
June 14 2012
For decades, Ontario's coroners kept the organs retained from autopsies. And in many cases, the families were never informed that the organs had been removed. Now, the coroner is trying to track down those family members so that they can properly dispose of the remains. CBC Radio "As It Happens" story.
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June 14 2012
For decades, Ontario's coroners kept the organs retained from autopsies. And in many cases, the families were never informed that the organs had been removed. Now, the coroner is trying to track down those family members so that they can properly dispose of the remains. CBC Radio "As It Happens" story.
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Ontario coroners have kept over 4,000 organs from autopsies. Now they’re asking what they should do with them
June 13 2012
Ontario’s coroners have kept approximately 4,000 organs in storage from autopsies dating as far back as the 1970s. Now, the province is asking families what they should do with the body parts. National Post story.
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June 13 2012
Ontario’s coroners have kept approximately 4,000 organs in storage from autopsies dating as far back as the 1970s. Now, the province is asking families what they should do with the body parts. National Post story.
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Ontario college told to reconsider decision against mistaken mastectomy doctor
June 12 2012
A review board has ruled that a decision to caution a Windsor, ON, doctor who has performed unnecessary breast surgeries was unreasonable, saying there is no indication previous complaints against the doctor were considered. Canadian Press story.
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June 12 2012
A review board has ruled that a decision to caution a Windsor, ON, doctor who has performed unnecessary breast surgeries was unreasonable, saying there is no indication previous complaints against the doctor were considered. Canadian Press story.
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Alberta chief medical examiner solves death-puzzles
May 11 2012
A profile of Alberta's new chief medical examiner, Dr. Anny Sauvageau. Edmoonton Sun story.
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May 11 2012
A profile of Alberta's new chief medical examiner, Dr. Anny Sauvageau. Edmoonton Sun story.
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Ontario's health minister weighs in on mistaken cancer surgery
May 08 2012
Ontario's health minister has weighed in on the latest pathology mix-up at Windsor Regional Hospital. CBC News story.
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May 08 2012
Ontario's health minister has weighed in on the latest pathology mix-up at Windsor Regional Hospital. CBC News story.
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Look Again: The Importance of Second Opinions in Breast Pathology
May 07 2012
A correct diagnosis may determine the use of effective treatment (or show particular treatments to be unnecessary), whereas an incorrect diagnosis may lead to treatment-related adverse effects without known benefit. Therefore, proper pathologic classification has clinical oncologic implications. Journal of Clinial Oncology editorial.
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May 07 2012
A correct diagnosis may determine the use of effective treatment (or show particular treatments to be unnecessary), whereas an incorrect diagnosis may lead to treatment-related adverse effects without known benefit. Therefore, proper pathologic classification has clinical oncologic implications. Journal of Clinial Oncology editorial.
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Pathology error causes unnecessary lumpectomy
May 05 2012
A mistake by a pathologist at Windsor Regional Hospital led a surgeon - who has come under public scrutiny in the past - to perform a lumpectomy and remove the lymph nodes of a healthy woman. Windsor Star story.
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May 05 2012
A mistake by a pathologist at Windsor Regional Hospital led a surgeon - who has come under public scrutiny in the past - to perform a lumpectomy and remove the lymph nodes of a healthy woman. Windsor Star story.
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Windsor hospital CEO takes responsibility for surgery mistake
May 04 2012
The CEO of Windsor Regional Hospital says he is ultimately responsible for the latest error in the hospital's pathology department, in which the test results of the healthy woman were mixed up the with those of a woman diagnosed with advanced stage breast cancer. The healthy patient underwent a lumpectomy and had her lymph nodes removed. CBC News story.
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May 04 2012
The CEO of Windsor Regional Hospital says he is ultimately responsible for the latest error in the hospital's pathology department, in which the test results of the healthy woman were mixed up the with those of a woman diagnosed with advanced stage breast cancer. The healthy patient underwent a lumpectomy and had her lymph nodes removed. CBC News story.
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Windsor hospital CEO blames human error for unnecessary surgery
May 04 2012
Windsor Regional Hospital CEO David Musyj said a pathologist’s administrative error caused the latest laboratory mix-up that led to a cancer-free woman having both a lumpectomy and four lymph nodes removed under her arm. Toronto Star story.
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May 04 2012
Windsor Regional Hospital CEO David Musyj said a pathologist’s administrative error caused the latest laboratory mix-up that led to a cancer-free woman having both a lumpectomy and four lymph nodes removed under her arm. Toronto Star story.
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Alberta officials deny wrongdoing after pathologist wrongly deems toddler’s death a homicide
April 24 2012
Alberta officials are denying any wrongdoing in a case involving a toddler who was put into foster care for nearly two years following an autopsy that wrongly classified his stepbrother’s accidental death as a homicide. The child’s family is suing the former Calgary pathologist who performed the autopsy, Dr. Michael Belenky, along with Alberta justice and child welfare officials. National Post story.
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April 24 2012
Alberta officials are denying any wrongdoing in a case involving a toddler who was put into foster care for nearly two years following an autopsy that wrongly classified his stepbrother’s accidental death as a homicide. The child’s family is suing the former Calgary pathologist who performed the autopsy, Dr. Michael Belenky, along with Alberta justice and child welfare officials. National Post story.
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All Alberta homicide autopsies to get peer review
March 01 2012
Effective 01 March 2012, the Alberta medical examiner’s office will require that a second set of eyes review all autopsy reports completed for cases involving homicides.
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March 01 2012
Effective 01 March 2012, the Alberta medical examiner’s office will require that a second set of eyes review all autopsy reports completed for cases involving homicides.
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Former Calgary pathologist sued by dead toddler’s family
February 29 2012
A former Calgary pathologist whose findings were reviewed by justice officials is being sued by the family of a toddler whose case sparked the probe. Calgary Herald story.
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February 29 2012
A former Calgary pathologist whose findings were reviewed by justice officials is being sued by the family of a toddler whose case sparked the probe. Calgary Herald story.
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CAP-ACP Past President on Pathology Errors
February 24 2012
CBC Radio One (Manitoba)'s morning show "Information Radio" interviews CAP-ACP Past President Laurette Geldenhuys about errors in pathology. Diagnostic Services Manitoba recently released a report that several mis-diagnoses by one of its pathologists have been discovered.
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February 24 2012
CBC Radio One (Manitoba)'s morning show "Information Radio" interviews CAP-ACP Past President Laurette Geldenhuys about errors in pathology. Diagnostic Services Manitoba recently released a report that several mis-diagnoses by one of its pathologists have been discovered.
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Cancer patient loses trust in health tests
February 24 2012
Pam Carriere was told a March 2011 test showed she had no cancer -- but on Aug. 31, after her pathology test was reviewed, she was told a mistake had been made and she needed further surgery. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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February 24 2012
Pam Carriere was told a March 2011 test showed she had no cancer -- but on Aug. 31, after her pathology test was reviewed, she was told a mistake had been made and she needed further surgery. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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I-Team investigates one pathologist's mistakes
February 23 2012
CBC Radio One (Manitoba)'s morning show "Information Radio" reports on how a pathologist's mistake turned a woman's life upside down.
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February 23 2012
CBC Radio One (Manitoba)'s morning show "Information Radio" reports on how a pathologist's mistake turned a woman's life upside down.
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Cancer patient wants apology for pathologist's error
February 23 2012
A Winnipeg breast cancer patient wants an apology from the pathologist who erred in his analysis of her biopsy, which led to her being told she didn't have cancer when she did. CBC News Manitoba story.
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February 23 2012
A Winnipeg breast cancer patient wants an apology from the pathologist who erred in his analysis of her biopsy, which led to her being told she didn't have cancer when she did. CBC News Manitoba story.
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Group of N.L. women sue after breasts removed over faulty cancer tests
February 22 2012
A group of women in Newfoundland and Labrador who were erroneously told they had breast cancer — then had both their breasts removed — want the local health authority to send tissue samples from their breasts to an impartial pathologist for testing to find out where the system fell apart and who is to blame. National Post story.
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February 22 2012
A group of women in Newfoundland and Labrador who were erroneously told they had breast cancer — then had both their breasts removed — want the local health authority to send tissue samples from their breasts to an impartial pathologist for testing to find out where the system fell apart and who is to blame. National Post story.
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NL's Eastern Health responds to mastectomy lawsuit
February 22 2012
Nine women are suing Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority because their breasts were removed by mistake following inaccurate pathology tests. CBC News story.
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February 22 2012
Nine women are suing Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority because their breasts were removed by mistake following inaccurate pathology tests. CBC News story.
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Calgary pathologist under investigation named in Alberta legislature
February 21 2012
While the work a Calgary pathologist did for Alberta Justice is being investigated, the man continues to work for the province, this time for Alberta Health Services. In the Alberta legislature, opposition Liberal MLA David Swann identified the pathologist involved and asked the government why the man is again working for the province while the review takes place, and why all of his case files are not being investigated. CBC News story.
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February 21 2012
While the work a Calgary pathologist did for Alberta Justice is being investigated, the man continues to work for the province, this time for Alberta Health Services. In the Alberta legislature, opposition Liberal MLA David Swann identified the pathologist involved and asked the government why the man is again working for the province while the review takes place, and why all of his case files are not being investigated. CBC News story.
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Pathologist wrong in 137 cases, review finds
February 18 2012
A provincial pathology probe found more than 130 Manitobans were given the wrong medical prognoses by a pathologist -- including 2 patients who were told they didn't have cancer when in fact, they did. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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February 18 2012
A provincial pathology probe found more than 130 Manitobans were given the wrong medical prognoses by a pathologist -- including 2 patients who were told they didn't have cancer when in fact, they did. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Review of pathologist's work complete; 5 critical incidents reported
February 17 2012
Diagnostic Services of Manitoba (DSM) has released the results of a review of 3,006 pathology cases of diagnosed by a pathologist, sparked by a routine audit by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, as well the DSM's internal quality control procedures last June. Out of the 137 cases, 5 critical incidents were reported, such that patients required a significant change in their treatment plan or had a change in prognosis. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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February 17 2012
Diagnostic Services of Manitoba (DSM) has released the results of a review of 3,006 pathology cases of diagnosed by a pathologist, sparked by a routine audit by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, as well the DSM's internal quality control procedures last June. Out of the 137 cases, 5 critical incidents were reported, such that patients required a significant change in their treatment plan or had a change in prognosis. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Alberta Justice officials investigate files of forensic pathologist
February 16 2012
Justice officials in Alberta are investigating the work of a former forensic pathologist after mistakes were found in at least 4 of his autopsies. The unnamed doctor was in Calgary for a year before leaving the job last September. He was part of 426 death investigations, including 13 homicides. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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February 16 2012
Justice officials in Alberta are investigating the work of a former forensic pathologist after mistakes were found in at least 4 of his autopsies. The unnamed doctor was in Calgary for a year before leaving the job last September. He was part of 426 death investigations, including 13 homicides. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Calgary forensic pathologist's work under investigation
February 16 2012
Prompted by an insurance company's question last fall about an accidental death, Alberta Justice is reviewing the cases of a former Calgary forensic pathologist. CBC News story.
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February 16 2012
Prompted by an insurance company's question last fall about an accidental death, Alberta Justice is reviewing the cases of a former Calgary forensic pathologist. CBC News story.
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Doctors make mistakes. Can we talk about that?
January 25 2012
Every doctor makes mistakes. But, says physician Brian Goldman, host of CBC Radio’s "White Coat, Black Art", medicine's culture of denial (and shame) keeps doctors from ever talking about those mistakes, or using them to learn and improve. Telling stories from his own long practice, he calls on doctors to start talking about being wrong. (17:33)
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January 25 2012
Every doctor makes mistakes. But, says physician Brian Goldman, host of CBC Radio’s "White Coat, Black Art", medicine's culture of denial (and shame) keeps doctors from ever talking about those mistakes, or using them to learn and improve. Telling stories from his own long practice, he calls on doctors to start talking about being wrong. (17:33)
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Fighting cancer gets personal
January 14 2012
Made-to-measure treatments highlight the promise -- and current limitations -- of personalized medicine, which involves using genetic screening or protein analysis to help doctors predict what drugs would work best for a particular patient. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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January 14 2012
Made-to-measure treatments highlight the promise -- and current limitations -- of personalized medicine, which involves using genetic screening or protein analysis to help doctors predict what drugs would work best for a particular patient. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Woman settles lawsuit over mastectomy done after mistaken cancer diagnosis
January 12 2012
A Leamington, ON woman whose healthy breast was removed in the mistaken belief it was cancerous has settled her lawsuit against the hospital and doctors who operated on her. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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January 12 2012
A Leamington, ON woman whose healthy breast was removed in the mistaken belief it was cancerous has settled her lawsuit against the hospital and doctors who operated on her. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Pathology has changed
January 05 2012
London, ON pathologist and CAP-ACP member Dr. David Driman comments on Globe and Mail medical writer Andre Picard's column "Let’s Look Beyond Our Pathology Problems". Globe and Mail Letter to the Editor.
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January 05 2012
London, ON pathologist and CAP-ACP member Dr. David Driman comments on Globe and Mail medical writer Andre Picard's column "Let’s Look Beyond Our Pathology Problems". Globe and Mail Letter to the Editor.
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CSMLS supports national standards
January 04 2012
In response to Globe and Mail writer André Picard's column "Let’s Look Beyond Our Pathology Problems", the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science expresses its support for implementing nationwide regulation of all laboratory professionals to maintain standards and ensure accountability. Globe and Mail Letter to the Editor.
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January 04 2012
In response to Globe and Mail writer André Picard's column "Let’s Look Beyond Our Pathology Problems", the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science expresses its support for implementing nationwide regulation of all laboratory professionals to maintain standards and ensure accountability. Globe and Mail Letter to the Editor.
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What we should learn from our pathology problems
January 02 2012
The failings in pathology should not be dismissed as isolated woes; if anything, they are by-products of poor management practices on a larger scale and our failure to ask some fundamental questions. Globe and Mail column.
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January 02 2012
The failings in pathology should not be dismissed as isolated woes; if anything, they are by-products of poor management practices on a larger scale and our failure to ask some fundamental questions. Globe and Mail column.
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Yell louder this time
January 01 2012
Laboratories all over Canada, in provinces rich and poor, have committed far too many life-altering mistakes. The provinces should urgently convene an expert panel to ensure that every province and territory constructs its medical care on a solid foundation of pathology quality controls that are proven and consistent, to the extent possible, throughout Canada. Globe and Mail editorial.
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January 01 2012
Laboratories all over Canada, in provinces rich and poor, have committed far too many life-altering mistakes. The provinces should urgently convene an expert panel to ensure that every province and territory constructs its medical care on a solid foundation of pathology quality controls that are proven and consistent, to the extent possible, throughout Canada. Globe and Mail editorial.
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National strategy urgently needed before goalies of medicine become dangerously overwhelmed
December 31 2011
Alberta has announced a major provincewide reviews of its pathology and radiology systems. But No matter what kind of “system” improvements we make, our radiology and pathology departments can only be as good as the human beings who work in them, and Canada and the United States are both facing major shortages of pathologists and radiologists. We need a national strategy to address national shortages. Edmonton Journal column.
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December 31 2011
Alberta has announced a major provincewide reviews of its pathology and radiology systems. But No matter what kind of “system” improvements we make, our radiology and pathology departments can only be as good as the human beings who work in them, and Canada and the United States are both facing major shortages of pathologists and radiologists. We need a national strategy to address national shortages. Edmonton Journal column.
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Shortages of pathologists? Alberta Health Services responds.
December 31 2011
Alberta Health Services responds to some of the issues raised by Edmonton Journal writer Paula Simons in her column "National strategy urgently needed before goalies of medicine become dangerously overwhelmed".
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December 31 2011
Alberta Health Services responds to some of the issues raised by Edmonton Journal writer Paula Simons in her column "National strategy urgently needed before goalies of medicine become dangerously overwhelmed".
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Better processes needed to catch medical errors: expert
December 31 2011
The registrar of Alberta's College of Physicians and Surgeons says the province needs better oversight to prevent medical errors like the recently announced misdiagnoses in Drumheller and Edmonton. Edmonton Journal story.
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December 31 2011
The registrar of Alberta's College of Physicians and Surgeons says the province needs better oversight to prevent medical errors like the recently announced misdiagnoses in Drumheller and Edmonton. Edmonton Journal story.
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Alberta to review pathology testing after questions at 3 different hospitals
December 29 2011
Alberta's health minister has ordered a review of diagnostic imaging and pathology testing in the province after inaccurate results surfaced in 3 different hospitals over the last 2 months. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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December 29 2011
Alberta's health minister has ordered a review of diagnostic imaging and pathology testing in the province after inaccurate results surfaced in 3 different hospitals over the last 2 months. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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HPV test beats pap smear in cervical cancer screening
December 15 2011
In a trial involving nearly 40,000 women in the Netherlands, testing for the human papillomavirus, or HPV, allowed doctors to detect abnormal cervical cells earlier -- and prevent more cases of cervical cancer -- than administering pap smears alone. Los Angeles Times story.
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December 15 2011
In a trial involving nearly 40,000 women in the Netherlands, testing for the human papillomavirus, or HPV, allowed doctors to detect abnormal cervical cells earlier -- and prevent more cases of cervical cancer -- than administering pap smears alone. Los Angeles Times story.
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Can the word "cancer" be more harmful than the disease?
December 12 2011
Thanks to technological advances in pathology and other medical disciplines, we can now detect tumours at a microscopic level and abnormalities right down to a cellular level – and we can do so in living people. The paradox is that we can now detect a lot of cancer that is, well, not even cancer yet and likely never will be. We need a new cancer lexicon. Globe and Mail column.
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December 12 2011
Thanks to technological advances in pathology and other medical disciplines, we can now detect tumours at a microscopic level and abnormalities right down to a cellular level – and we can do so in living people. The paradox is that we can now detect a lot of cancer that is, well, not even cancer yet and likely never will be. We need a new cancer lexicon. Globe and Mail column.
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When Pap Smears Are No Longer Needed
December 12 2011
Medical groups have reached agreement on when and which women can stop receiving Pap smears. New York Times story.
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December 12 2011
Medical groups have reached agreement on when and which women can stop receiving Pap smears. New York Times story.
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Boogaard’s brain reveals degenerative condition from blows to head
December 05 2011
Neuropathologic examination of NHL enforcer Derek Boogaard's brain showed signs of a degenerative condition believed to be caused by repeated blows to the head. Globe and Mail story.
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December 05 2011
Neuropathologic examination of NHL enforcer Derek Boogaard's brain showed signs of a degenerative condition believed to be caused by repeated blows to the head. Globe and Mail story.
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Prostate cancer patients wait for troubling phone call
December 03 2011
More than 100 men in Edmonton and northern Alberta are waiting for a troubling phone call. Alberta Health Services is calling all 159 patients whose potentially cancerous biopsies were analyzed this summer by a Royal Alexandra Hospital pathologist accused of misreading samples. Edmonton Journal story.
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December 03 2011
More than 100 men in Edmonton and northern Alberta are waiting for a troubling phone call. Alberta Health Services is calling all 159 patients whose potentially cancerous biopsies were analyzed this summer by a Royal Alexandra Hospital pathologist accused of misreading samples. Edmonton Journal story.
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Microchip offers hope of better prostate cancer screening
December 03 2011
Backed by a grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Toronto researchers, along with leading Canadian experts in nanotechnology and bio-analytical chemistry, will develop a prostate cancer screening microchip device that is fast, inexpensive and non-invasive. Globe and Mail story.
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December 03 2011
Backed by a grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Toronto researchers, along with leading Canadian experts in nanotechnology and bio-analytical chemistry, will develop a prostate cancer screening microchip device that is fast, inexpensive and non-invasive. Globe and Mail story.
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Alberta probes hundreds of suspect cancer tests as pathologist's work comes under scrutiny
December 03 2011
Alberta health officials are retesting more than 1,700 diagnoses made by an Edmonton pathologist who allegedly misread samples taken from dozens of cancer patients. The list includes 29 men who may have missed out on months of prostate cancer treatment due to misdiagnoses of their biopsies that mistakenly found no cancer or underestimated the severity of their illness. In addition to the prostate biopsies, 1,568 non-prostate specimens the pathologist examined are also being reviewed. Edmonton Journal article.
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December 03 2011
Alberta health officials are retesting more than 1,700 diagnoses made by an Edmonton pathologist who allegedly misread samples taken from dozens of cancer patients. The list includes 29 men who may have missed out on months of prostate cancer treatment due to misdiagnoses of their biopsies that mistakenly found no cancer or underestimated the severity of their illness. In addition to the prostate biopsies, 1,568 non-prostate specimens the pathologist examined are also being reviewed. Edmonton Journal article.
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Health Quality Council to conduct review of pathology tests
December 02 2011
Alberta is reviewing hundreds of prostate exams, and over 1500 other tests, after discrepancies were found in the work of one pathologist. CTV Edmonton story.
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December 02 2011
Alberta is reviewing hundreds of prostate exams, and over 1500 other tests, after discrepancies were found in the work of one pathologist. CTV Edmonton story.
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Pathologist at Edmonton hospital misread prostate cancer biopsies
December 02 2011
Alberta health officials are retesting more than 1,700 diagnoses made by an Edmonton pathologist who allegedly misread samples taken from dozens of cancer patients. The list includes 29 men who may have missed out on months of prostate cancer treatment due to a misdiagnoses of their biopsies that mistakenly found no cancer or underestimated the severity of their illness. Edmonton Journal story.
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December 02 2011
Alberta health officials are retesting more than 1,700 diagnoses made by an Edmonton pathologist who allegedly misread samples taken from dozens of cancer patients. The list includes 29 men who may have missed out on months of prostate cancer treatment due to a misdiagnoses of their biopsies that mistakenly found no cancer or underestimated the severity of their illness. Edmonton Journal story.
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HQCA asked to review pathology testing processes
December 02 2011
Alberta Health Services has asked the Health Quality Council of Alberta (HQCA) to review the handling of pathology tests by Calgary Laboratory Services (CLS) at Rockyview General Hospital (RGH). Alberta Health Services press release.
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December 02 2011
Alberta Health Services has asked the Health Quality Council of Alberta (HQCA) to review the handling of pathology tests by Calgary Laboratory Services (CLS) at Rockyview General Hospital (RGH). Alberta Health Services press release.
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Edmonton prostate biopsies prompt review of 1,600 tests
December 02 2011
Alberta health officials have ordered a review of an additional 1,600 reports from an Edmonton pathologist after 29 patients were mistakenly told they didn't have prostate cancer or had a less aggressive form of the disease. The 29 cases were among 159 prostate biopsy slides, taken between July and September, that were reviewed by a pathologist working at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton. CBC News story.
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December 02 2011
Alberta health officials have ordered a review of an additional 1,600 reports from an Edmonton pathologist after 29 patients were mistakenly told they didn't have prostate cancer or had a less aggressive form of the disease. The 29 cases were among 159 prostate biopsy slides, taken between July and September, that were reviewed by a pathologist working at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton. CBC News story.
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Calgary Lab Services more than ready to take on Tom Baker testing - AHS
November 27 2011
Dr. Leland Baskin, medical director and vice-president of medical operations for Calgary Laboratory Services (CLS), and Paula Hall, chief operating officer for CLS comment on the transition of clinical testing from the Tom Baker Cancer Centre (TBCC) pathology laboratory to CLS. Calgary Herald letter to the editor.
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November 27 2011
Dr. Leland Baskin, medical director and vice-president of medical operations for Calgary Laboratory Services (CLS), and Paula Hall, chief operating officer for CLS comment on the transition of clinical testing from the Tom Baker Cancer Centre (TBCC) pathology laboratory to CLS. Calgary Herald letter to the editor.
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Alberta Health Services comments on Tom Baker Cancer Centre pathology laboratory closure
November 23 2011
Dr. Paul Grundy, Senior Medical Director of Cancer Care for Alberta Health Services, talks about the closure of the Tom Baker Cancer Centre cancer testing lab. The Homestretch (CBC Radio Calgary drive-home show), 2011/11/23 episode.
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November 23 2011
Dr. Paul Grundy, Senior Medical Director of Cancer Care for Alberta Health Services, talks about the closure of the Tom Baker Cancer Centre cancer testing lab. The Homestretch (CBC Radio Calgary drive-home show), 2011/11/23 episode.
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Former Calgary pathologist claims he expressed concerns, was threatened by superboard
November 22 2011
A former senior pathologist at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre alleges he was strong-armed by his superiors at the health superboard after criticizing a plan to move breast, lung and other cancer tests in Calgary to another site. Calgary Herald story.
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November 22 2011
A former senior pathologist at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre alleges he was strong-armed by his superiors at the health superboard after criticizing a plan to move breast, lung and other cancer tests in Calgary to another site. Calgary Herald story.
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Calgary cancer testing lab closure
November 21 2011
A former Staff Pathologist at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre says he was intimidated by his former employer Alberta Health Services. Dr. Tony Magliocco says the cancer testing lab he ran which is due to close at the end of the month will put patients at risk if it closes. The Homestretch (CBC Radio Calgary drive-home show) 2011/11/21 episode.
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November 21 2011
A former Staff Pathologist at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre says he was intimidated by his former employer Alberta Health Services. Dr. Tony Magliocco says the cancer testing lab he ran which is due to close at the end of the month will put patients at risk if it closes. The Homestretch (CBC Radio Calgary drive-home show) 2011/11/21 episode.
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‘Cancer’ or ‘Weird Cells’: Which Sounds Deadlier?
November 21 2011
The word “cancer” is out of date, and all too often it can be unnecessarily frightening. Now, some medical experts have recommended getting rid of the word “cancer” altogether for certain conditions that may or may not be potentially fatal. New York Times column.
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November 21 2011
The word “cancer” is out of date, and all too often it can be unnecessarily frightening. Now, some medical experts have recommended getting rid of the word “cancer” altogether for certain conditions that may or may not be potentially fatal. New York Times column.
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Tom Baker Cancer Centre closure a matter of 'life and death'
November 10 2011
Dr. Tony Magliocco, the former head pathologist at Calgary’s Tom Baker Centre, says moving testing from the centre to the another lab will put patients in danger. The cancer centre is set to close at the end of the month, when crucial testing on breast cancer samples will be moved to Calgary Laboratory Services. CBC News story.
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November 10 2011
Dr. Tony Magliocco, the former head pathologist at Calgary’s Tom Baker Centre, says moving testing from the centre to the another lab will put patients in danger. The cancer centre is set to close at the end of the month, when crucial testing on breast cancer samples will be moved to Calgary Laboratory Services. CBC News story.
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Calgary pathology services under microscope
November 04 2011
The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta has launched a probe in tandem with a more sweeping Health Quality Council of Alberta review into how the tests were handled by Calgary Laboratory Services at Rockyview General Hospital. Calgary Herald story.
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November 04 2011
The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta has launched a probe in tandem with a more sweeping Health Quality Council of Alberta review into how the tests were handled by Calgary Laboratory Services at Rockyview General Hospital. Calgary Herald story.
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Alberta health quality watchdog summoned to look at cancer tests
November 03 2011
Alberta's health watchdog has been called in to scrutinize how 31 pathology tests were handled at a Rockyview General Hospital laboratory for patients being tested for cancer and other tumours. Calgary Herald story.
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November 03 2011
Alberta's health watchdog has been called in to scrutinize how 31 pathology tests were handled at a Rockyview General Hospital laboratory for patients being tested for cancer and other tumours. Calgary Herald story.
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Calgary lab under scrutiny over pathology tests for cancer, tumours
November 02 2011
Alberta’s health watchdog has been called in to scrutinize how 31 pathology tests were handled at a Rockyview General Hospital laboratory for patients being tested for cancer and other tumours. Calgary Herald story.
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November 02 2011
Alberta’s health watchdog has been called in to scrutinize how 31 pathology tests were handled at a Rockyview General Hospital laboratory for patients being tested for cancer and other tumours. Calgary Herald story.
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Alleged torture victim looked like a cancer patient, pathologist testifies
October 25 2011
An alleged beating-and-confinement victim dropped off at hospital was so malnourished, he looked like an advanced-stage cancer patient, testified a forensic pathologist at the trial of accused serial torturer Dustin Paxton. National Post story.
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October 25 2011
An alleged beating-and-confinement victim dropped off at hospital was so malnourished, he looked like an advanced-stage cancer patient, testified a forensic pathologist at the trial of accused serial torturer Dustin Paxton. National Post story.
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Genetic profiling: Waiting for the future of medicine
October 11 2011
Genomic researchers may have oversold what they can deliver. Montreal Gazette story.
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October 11 2011
Genomic researchers may have oversold what they can deliver. Montreal Gazette story.
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Dr. Anny treats the morbid as the mundane as Alberta's chief medical examiner
September 23 2011
A profile of Alberta's chief medical examiner, Dr. Anny Sauvageau. Globe and Mail story.
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September 23 2011
A profile of Alberta's chief medical examiner, Dr. Anny Sauvageau. Globe and Mail story.
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Probe into Calgary pathologist's files raised no concerns
September 19 2011
A recently concluded Calgary Police investigation found no problems with files handled by former Calgary medical examiner Dr. Michael Belenky. CBC News story.
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September 19 2011
A recently concluded Calgary Police investigation found no problems with files handled by former Calgary medical examiner Dr. Michael Belenky. CBC News story.
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The Incredible Shrinking Autopsy
August 04 2011
US Centres for Disease Control statistics show that in 2007, autopsies were performed on 8.5% of deaths, compared with 19.3% of deaths in 1972. Doctors point out that autopsies can contradict imaging findings, and alert families to genetic conditions. Wall Street Journal article.
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August 04 2011
US Centres for Disease Control statistics show that in 2007, autopsies were performed on 8.5% of deaths, compared with 19.3% of deaths in 1972. Doctors point out that autopsies can contradict imaging findings, and alert families to genetic conditions. Wall Street Journal article.
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Winnipeg pathologist's work put under scrutiny
July 30 2011
A Winnipeg pathologist whose work is under review by Diagnostic Services Manitoba will -- at the very least -- be required to upgrade his training. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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July 30 2011
A Winnipeg pathologist whose work is under review by Diagnostic Services Manitoba will -- at the very least -- be required to upgrade his training. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Donated brains of 2 former CFLers show signs of disease
July 26 2011
A neuropathologist with the Krembil Neuroscience Centre at Toronto Western Hospital has analyzed the brains of 4 former CFL players and announced Tuesday they had discovered 2 of them had suffered from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease that can cause erratic behaviour, depression and lead to dementia. Globe and Mail story.
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July 26 2011
A neuropathologist with the Krembil Neuroscience Centre at Toronto Western Hospital has analyzed the brains of 4 former CFL players and announced Tuesday they had discovered 2 of them had suffered from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease that can cause erratic behaviour, depression and lead to dementia. Globe and Mail story.
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Scientific Autopsy Confirms Allende Suicide
July 19 2011
A scientific autopsy has confirmed that Chilean President Salvador Allende committed suicide during the 1973 coup that toppled his socialist government. New York Times story.
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July 19 2011
A scientific autopsy has confirmed that Chilean President Salvador Allende committed suicide during the 1973 coup that toppled his socialist government. New York Times story.
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Saskatoon Health Region execs should put public first
July 19 2011
The motives of Saskatoon Health Region executives are particularly suspect in the handling of whistle-blowing pathologist Kirk Ready's dismissal. Saskatoon StarPhoenix letter to the editor.
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July 19 2011
The motives of Saskatoon Health Region executives are particularly suspect in the handling of whistle-blowing pathologist Kirk Ready's dismissal. Saskatoon StarPhoenix letter to the editor.
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Add Patience to a Leap of Faith to Discover Cancer Signatures
July 19 2011
There have been few successes in the brave new world of cancer research: the quest for genetic signatures. New York Times story.
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July 19 2011
There have been few successes in the brave new world of cancer research: the quest for genetic signatures. New York Times story.
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Autopsy guidelines revised for Alzheimer's
July 18 2011
New guidelines proposed by the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer's Association seek to distinguish between memory changes or dementia diagnosed by doctors when people are alive, and the changes pathologists can see in an autopsy. Reuters story.
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July 18 2011
New guidelines proposed by the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer's Association seek to distinguish between memory changes or dementia diagnosed by doctors when people are alive, and the changes pathologists can see in an autopsy. Reuters story.
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Death still fascinates Alberta’s former chief medical examiner
July 17 2011
A profile of Dr. Graeme Dowling, who stepped down in July 2011 after 18 years as Alberta’s chief medical examiner. Edmonton Journal story.
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July 17 2011
A profile of Dr. Graeme Dowling, who stepped down in July 2011 after 18 years as Alberta’s chief medical examiner. Edmonton Journal story.
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Crown prosecutors and medical examiners cope with high Edmonton homicide numbers
July 17 2011
Edmonton police have brought in additional investigators to handle the city’s nation-leading homicide rate, but don’t expect the province to hire extra medical examiners or Crown prosecutors any time soon. Edmonton Journal story.
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July 17 2011
Edmonton police have brought in additional investigators to handle the city’s nation-leading homicide rate, but don’t expect the province to hire extra medical examiners or Crown prosecutors any time soon. Edmonton Journal story.
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Prognosis wrong due to faulty pathology work in Winnipeg
July 16 2011
At least one Manitoba patient and potentially more were given the wrong medical prognosis because of faulty work a Winnipeg pathologist performed at Diagnostic Services of Manitoba. The pathologist, recently recruited from the United States, was removed from his clinical duties while the agency reviews 3,000 cases he handled since being hired last October. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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July 16 2011
At least one Manitoba patient and potentially more were given the wrong medical prognosis because of faulty work a Winnipeg pathologist performed at Diagnostic Services of Manitoba. The pathologist, recently recruited from the United States, was removed from his clinical duties while the agency reviews 3,000 cases he handled since being hired last October. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Pathology Review Underway in Winnipeg
July 15 2011
Diagnostic Services of Manitoba (DSM) issued a media release to advise the public of concerns regarding the work of a DSM pathologist, and an ongoing comprehensive review of the work of this pathologist.
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July 15 2011
Diagnostic Services of Manitoba (DSM) issued a media release to advise the public of concerns regarding the work of a DSM pathologist, and an ongoing comprehensive review of the work of this pathologist.
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Manitoba pathologist's work being reviewed after audit uncovered problems
July 15 2011
A Manitoba pathologist has been removed from clinical duties and is having his work reviewed. Diagnostic Services Manitoba, which oversees public labs in the province, says a routine audit this year uncovered "pathological discrepancies," and that a review of all 3,000 cases handled by the pathologist is now underway. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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July 15 2011
A Manitoba pathologist has been removed from clinical duties and is having his work reviewed. Diagnostic Services Manitoba, which oversees public labs in the province, says a routine audit this year uncovered "pathological discrepancies," and that a review of all 3,000 cases handled by the pathologist is now underway. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Saskatchewan regulation breach linked to pathologist shortage
July 12 2011
A breach of Saskatchewan’s medical laboratory licensing regulations by the Saskatoon Health Region, exposed by a whistleblower who has since been fired, has been linked to the region’s shortage of pathologists — a problem noticeable across Canada. Canadian Medical Association Journal article.
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July 12 2011
A breach of Saskatchewan’s medical laboratory licensing regulations by the Saskatoon Health Region, exposed by a whistleblower who has since been fired, has been linked to the region’s shortage of pathologists — a problem noticeable across Canada. Canadian Medical Association Journal article.
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Breast cancer tests finally resume in St. John's
July 06 2011
The largest health authority in Newfoundland and Labrador said Wednesday it is able to resume hormone receptor tests for breast cancer, six years after errors were discovered that led to one of Canada's biggest health scandals. CBC News story.
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July 06 2011
The largest health authority in Newfoundland and Labrador said Wednesday it is able to resume hormone receptor tests for breast cancer, six years after errors were discovered that led to one of Canada's biggest health scandals. CBC News story.
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Man hopes to clear name 40 years after conviction in wife’s death
July 05 2011
Tried in 1971 for slaying his wife, Jack Salmon was up against autopsy photographs that depicted a badly bruised victim and an expert witness who clearly felt Mr. Salmon was the killer. Forty years later, however, forensic science has swung in his favour. Mr. Salmon, has filed an application to the federal Department of Justice asking for the case to be reopened to consider fresh evidence or referred to the Ontario Court of Appeal for review. His application includes statements from 3 prominent forensic pathology experts who disagree strongly with damning pathology evidence that helped convict Mr. Salmon of manslaughter. Globe and Mail story.
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July 05 2011
Tried in 1971 for slaying his wife, Jack Salmon was up against autopsy photographs that depicted a badly bruised victim and an expert witness who clearly felt Mr. Salmon was the killer. Forty years later, however, forensic science has swung in his favour. Mr. Salmon, has filed an application to the federal Department of Justice asking for the case to be reopened to consider fresh evidence or referred to the Ontario Court of Appeal for review. His application includes statements from 3 prominent forensic pathology experts who disagree strongly with damning pathology evidence that helped convict Mr. Salmon of manslaughter. Globe and Mail story.
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Rethink pathologist's dismissal
June 30 2011
For the good of patient care, and Saskatoon Health Region's relationship with physicians, the decision to fire a pathologist for blowing the whistle on SHR's contravention of provincial regulations should be reconsidered. Saskatoon StarPhoenix Letter to the Editor.
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June 30 2011
For the good of patient care, and Saskatoon Health Region's relationship with physicians, the decision to fire a pathologist for blowing the whistle on SHR's contravention of provincial regulations should be reconsidered. Saskatoon StarPhoenix Letter to the Editor.
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The Child Cases: Lessons From Canada
June 30 2011
Medical and legal experts often disagree on how to determine the cause of a child's unexpected death. One result is that parents sometimes are wrongly accused of murder and sent to prison. No place has uncovered a bigger problem — or dealt with it more directly — than Ontario, Canada. National Public Radio story.
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June 30 2011
Medical and legal experts often disagree on how to determine the cause of a child's unexpected death. One result is that parents sometimes are wrongly accused of murder and sent to prison. No place has uncovered a bigger problem — or dealt with it more directly — than Ontario, Canada. National Public Radio story.
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Saskatoon lags in retaining pathologists
June 25 2011
A new study that shows Saskatchewan has been losing pathologists at a faster rate than the rest of Canada. The shortage of pathologists over time has resulted in longer waits for test results in the Saskatoon Health Region, where there is a backlog of between 1,100 and 1,300 cases. Saskatoon Star-Phoenix article.
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June 25 2011
A new study that shows Saskatchewan has been losing pathologists at a faster rate than the rest of Canada. The shortage of pathologists over time has resulted in longer waits for test results in the Saskatoon Health Region, where there is a backlog of between 1,100 and 1,300 cases. Saskatoon Star-Phoenix article.
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Whistleblowing pathologist fired in Saskatoon
June 25 2011
The pathologist who blew the whistle on the Saskatoon Health Region plans to sue over his recent firing. Dr. Kirk Ready had contacted the provincial government and several news outlets in Saskatoon in April and complained the head of the region's medical laboratories was not a medical doctor certified in a laboratory specialty, in contravention of provincial regulations. Saskatoon Star-Phoenix article.
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June 25 2011
The pathologist who blew the whistle on the Saskatoon Health Region plans to sue over his recent firing. Dr. Kirk Ready had contacted the provincial government and several news outlets in Saskatoon in April and complained the head of the region's medical laboratories was not a medical doctor certified in a laboratory specialty, in contravention of provincial regulations. Saskatoon Star-Phoenix article.
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Decline on autopsies may obscure understanding of disease
June 17 2011
Today, hospitals perform autopsies on only about 5 percent of patients who die, down from roughly 50 percent in the 1960s. That's unfortunate, say experts, because details about the cause of death can be illuminating for both families and hospitals, even if they don't turn up an undiagnosed ailment or other new information about the cause of death. Los Angeles Times story.
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June 17 2011
Today, hospitals perform autopsies on only about 5 percent of patients who die, down from roughly 50 percent in the 1960s. That's unfortunate, say experts, because details about the cause of death can be illuminating for both families and hospitals, even if they don't turn up an undiagnosed ailment or other new information about the cause of death. Los Angeles Times story.
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Alberta appoints new medical examiner
June 15 2011
Alberta has appointed a new chief medical examiner. Dr. Anny Sauvageau was named Wednesday as the head of the provincial office that conducts autopsies and investigations into sudden, unexplained or suspicious deaths. Edmonton Journal story.
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June 15 2011
Alberta has appointed a new chief medical examiner. Dr. Anny Sauvageau was named Wednesday as the head of the provincial office that conducts autopsies and investigations into sudden, unexplained or suspicious deaths. Edmonton Journal story.
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When death stares you in the face every day
June 15 2011
An interview with Dr. Anny Sauvageau, Alberta’s new chief medical examiner. Edmonton Journal story.
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June 15 2011
An interview with Dr. Anny Sauvageau, Alberta’s new chief medical examiner. Edmonton Journal story.
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New chief medical examiner takes the reins in Alberta
June 15 2011
After several months of looking internationally for a new chief medical examiner for the province, Dr. Anny Sauvageau has been chosen to fill the shoes starting 01 July 2011. Edmonton Sun story.
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June 15 2011
After several months of looking internationally for a new chief medical examiner for the province, Dr. Anny Sauvageau has been chosen to fill the shoes starting 01 July 2011. Edmonton Sun story.
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Saskatoon feels effects of pathologist shortfall
June 07 2011
A shortage of pathologists continues to be a significant issue for the Saskatoon Health Region. The region continues to deal with a large backlog of cases, and turnaround times for analysis of specimens appear to have edged up during the past year. Saskatoon Star-Phoenix article.
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June 07 2011
A shortage of pathologists continues to be a significant issue for the Saskatoon Health Region. The region continues to deal with a large backlog of cases, and turnaround times for analysis of specimens appear to have edged up during the past year. Saskatoon Star-Phoenix article.
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Murder charge against mother dropped
June 07 2011
Charges have been withdrawn against an Ontario woman who spent 13 years in jail after being convicted of killing her toddler — in part because of evidence from now-disgraced pathologist Dr. Charles Smith. CBC News story.
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June 07 2011
Charges have been withdrawn against an Ontario woman who spent 13 years in jail after being convicted of killing her toddler — in part because of evidence from now-disgraced pathologist Dr. Charles Smith. CBC News story.
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Test result wait times grow as pathologists scarce in Saskatoon
June 06 2011
A shortage of pathologists continues to be a significant issue for the Saskatoon Health Region. As the region continues to deal with a large backlog of cases, turnaround times for analysis appear to have edged up during the past year. Saskatoon Star-Phoenix article.
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June 06 2011
A shortage of pathologists continues to be a significant issue for the Saskatoon Health Region. As the region continues to deal with a large backlog of cases, turnaround times for analysis appear to have edged up during the past year. Saskatoon Star-Phoenix article.
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Suicide doctor Jack Kevorkian dies at 83
June 04 2011
The former pathologist claimed to have assisted in the suicides of more than 130 terminally ill people between 1990 and 1998. Los Angeles Times story. Kevorkian, a former Michigan pathologist who served eight years in prison for second-degree murder for a case in which he personally administered the lethal injection rather than helping the patient do it himself, died at William Beaumont Hospital near Detroit, according to Mayer Morganroth, a lawyer and close friend.
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June 04 2011
The former pathologist claimed to have assisted in the suicides of more than 130 terminally ill people between 1990 and 1998. Los Angeles Times story. Kevorkian, a former Michigan pathologist who served eight years in prison for second-degree murder for a case in which he personally administered the lethal injection rather than helping the patient do it himself, died at William Beaumont Hospital near Detroit, according to Mayer Morganroth, a lawyer and close friend.
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B.C. pathologists' cancer tests lauded for accuracy
June 03 2011
A B.C.-developed quality assurance program for breast cancer testing appears to greatly improve the accuracy of identifying a hard-to-diagnose subtype, allowing oncologists to more confidently deliver the most effective courses of treatment, says a new study. Vancouver Sun story.
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June 03 2011
A B.C.-developed quality assurance program for breast cancer testing appears to greatly improve the accuracy of identifying a hard-to-diagnose subtype, allowing oncologists to more confidently deliver the most effective courses of treatment, says a new study. Vancouver Sun story.
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1 in 4 women not getting proper care after abnormal Pap tests
June 01 2011
One in 4 Ontario women who have an abnormal Pap test – meaning they may have cervical cancer – do not get any follow-up care. And even those getting care are not getting it promptly, new research shows. Among the contributing problems is a lack of consistent language in cytopathology reports. Globe and Mail story.
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June 01 2011
One in 4 Ontario women who have an abnormal Pap test – meaning they may have cervical cancer – do not get any follow-up care. And even those getting care are not getting it promptly, new research shows. Among the contributing problems is a lack of consistent language in cytopathology reports. Globe and Mail story.
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Disgraced pathologist's license lapses
June 01 2011
A Windsor pathologist who resigned from Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital after errors were discovered in her work is no longer licensed to practise medicine in Ontario. Windsor Star story.
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June 01 2011
A Windsor pathologist who resigned from Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital after errors were discovered in her work is no longer licensed to practise medicine in Ontario. Windsor Star story.
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Mistaken mastectomy pathologist will let medical licence lapse
May 31 2011
Ontario’s medical college says a pathologist investigated in a probe sparked by two unnecessary mastectomies will not be licensed to practise medicine in the province after May 2011. Toronto Star story.
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May 31 2011
Ontario’s medical college says a pathologist investigated in a probe sparked by two unnecessary mastectomies will not be licensed to practise medicine in the province after May 2011. Toronto Star story.
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Hall of Famer Gary Carter has brain tumour that doctors say is likely malignant
May 27 2011
Hall of Fame catcher and former Montreal Expo Gary Carter is awaiting the pathology report on a brain tumour that is likely cancerous. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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May 27 2011
Hall of Fame catcher and former Montreal Expo Gary Carter is awaiting the pathology report on a brain tumour that is likely cancerous. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Deposed Chilean President Salvador Allende's body removed from tomb for independent autopsy
May 23 2011
The remains of deposed Chilean President Salvador Allende were removed from his tomb Monday for an autopsy to determine whether he committed suicide or was assassinated during the 1973 military coup that ousted the leftist leader. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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May 23 2011
The remains of deposed Chilean President Salvador Allende were removed from his tomb Monday for an autopsy to determine whether he committed suicide or was assassinated during the 1973 military coup that ousted the leftist leader. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Decline in autopsies may obscure understanding of disease
May 17 2011
Television crime shows have helped popularize autopsies, but in reality these postmortem exams are becoming rarer every year. Today, hospitals perform autopsies on only about 5 percent of patients who die, down from roughly 50 percent in the 1960s. That's unfortunate, say experts, because details about the cause of death can be illuminating for both families and hospitals, even if they don't turn up an undiagnosed ailment or other new information about the cause of death. Kaiser Health News story.
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May 17 2011
Television crime shows have helped popularize autopsies, but in reality these postmortem exams are becoming rarer every year. Today, hospitals perform autopsies on only about 5 percent of patients who die, down from roughly 50 percent in the 1960s. That's unfortunate, say experts, because details about the cause of death can be illuminating for both families and hospitals, even if they don't turn up an undiagnosed ailment or other new information about the cause of death. Kaiser Health News story.
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Woman urges others not to accept pathology diagnoses on faith
May 14 2011
One of the almost 400 women in Newfoundland and Labrador whose breast cancer tests were bungled by a St. John's pathology lab is adamant that anyone given a diagnosis of cancer should seek a second opinion before committing to treatment. CTV News story.
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May 14 2011
One of the almost 400 women in Newfoundland and Labrador whose breast cancer tests were bungled by a St. John's pathology lab is adamant that anyone given a diagnosis of cancer should seek a second opinion before committing to treatment. CTV News story.
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'Errors in treatment possible from lack of pathologists'
May 09 2011
Israel has a severe shortage of pathologists – doctors who work behind the scenes in public hospitals and have no opportunities in private practice. This has put a heavy burden on existing pathology specialists, especially in the diagnosis of cancer. Jerusalem Post article.
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May 09 2011
Israel has a severe shortage of pathologists – doctors who work behind the scenes in public hospitals and have no opportunities in private practice. This has put a heavy burden on existing pathology specialists, especially in the diagnosis of cancer. Jerusalem Post article.
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Toronto hospital speeds up prostate biopsy results for faster treatment
March 31 2011
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto has instituted a rapid results clinic that cuts the wait time for diagnosis for most patients to three days following a prostate biopsy. Globe and Mail story.
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March 31 2011
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto has instituted a rapid results clinic that cuts the wait time for diagnosis for most patients to three days following a prostate biopsy. Globe and Mail story.
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Saskatoon suffers pathologist shortage
March 22 2011
Some Saskatoon Health Region lab test samples are being shipped to Regina during the next few months as Saskatoon experiences a shortage of pathologists. A backlog of 1,300 cases has built up as the Saskatoon Health Region tries to fill 2 vacancies in its anatomical pathology department. Saskatoon Star-Phoenix article.
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March 22 2011
Some Saskatoon Health Region lab test samples are being shipped to Regina during the next few months as Saskatoon experiences a shortage of pathologists. A backlog of 1,300 cases has built up as the Saskatoon Health Region tries to fill 2 vacancies in its anatomical pathology department. Saskatoon Star-Phoenix article.
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Investigated former Calgary pathologist not certified
February 02 2011
An Alberta medical examiner whose criminal cases are under scrutiny was not certified as a forensic pathologist. CBC News story.
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February 02 2011
An Alberta medical examiner whose criminal cases are under scrutiny was not certified as a forensic pathologist. CBC News story.
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Critical review launched due to Winnipeg cancer biopsy mix-up
July 20 2010
A critical incident review is underway due to a mix-up involving biopsy results, said the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. One woman was left not knowing she had cancer, while another was treated for cancer when she didn't have it. CTV Winnipeg story.
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July 20 2010
A critical incident review is underway due to a mix-up involving biopsy results, said the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. One woman was left not knowing she had cancer, while another was treated for cancer when she didn't have it. CTV Winnipeg story.
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$17.5M settlement in flawed cancer tests
February 15 2010
A Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador judge has approved a $17.5-million settlement in the class-action suit over errors in breast cancer testing conducted by pathology laboratories in the province between 1997 and 2005. CBC News story.
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February 15 2010
A Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador judge has approved a $17.5-million settlement in the class-action suit over errors in breast cancer testing conducted by pathology laboratories in the province between 1997 and 2005. CBC News story.
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Controversial cancer tests still sent out of N.L.
February 11 2010
Hormone receptor testing for breast cancer patients in Newfoundland and Labrador is still having to be done outside of the province 5 years after doctors first started questioning N.L. laboratories' accuracy in performing the tests. CBC News story.
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February 11 2010
Hormone receptor testing for breast cancer patients in Newfoundland and Labrador is still having to be done outside of the province 5 years after doctors first started questioning N.L. laboratories' accuracy in performing the tests. CBC News story.
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Review to examine pathology department, patient safety
December 11 2009
A local doctor is concerned that Manitoba labs are putting patients in danger and the province has now requested an external review into the matter. Pediatric pathologist Dr. David Grynspan says he's noticed problems at provincial labs for the past 2 years. CTV Winnipeg story.
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December 11 2009
A local doctor is concerned that Manitoba labs are putting patients in danger and the province has now requested an external review into the matter. Pediatric pathologist Dr. David Grynspan says he's noticed problems at provincial labs for the past 2 years. CTV Winnipeg story.
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Winnipeg pathologist retires despite exoneration
July 16 2008
The work of a suspended Winnipeg pathologist has been under the microscope for months. But after an extensive review of more than 800 of his cases, Dr. Robert Stark has received what amounts to exoneration. Despite the exoneration, Stark has decided to retire. CTV Winnipeg story.
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July 16 2008
The work of a suspended Winnipeg pathologist has been under the microscope for months. But after an extensive review of more than 800 of his cases, Dr. Robert Stark has received what amounts to exoneration. Despite the exoneration, Stark has decided to retire. CTV Winnipeg story.
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What do pathologists do anyway?
May 13 2008
As a patient, they are one kind of physician you will never see. But the decisions they make could mean the difference between life and death. They are pathologists, the doctors' doctors who toil away behind the scenes, analyzing vials of blood and urine, swabs from throats and snippets of tissue from skin and organs and muscles and bone. CBC News story.
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May 13 2008
As a patient, they are one kind of physician you will never see. But the decisions they make could mean the difference between life and death. They are pathologists, the doctors' doctors who toil away behind the scenes, analyzing vials of blood and urine, swabs from throats and snippets of tissue from skin and organs and muscles and bone. CBC News story.
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Pathologist decides to leave NL health board
May 11 2008
A Newfoundland pathologist working for a health board at the centre of a public inquiry into botched breast-cancer tests has decided to quit - the second to do so since the inquiry began 2 months ago. CTV News story.
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May 11 2008
A Newfoundland pathologist working for a health board at the centre of a public inquiry into botched breast-cancer tests has decided to quit - the second to do so since the inquiry began 2 months ago. CTV News story.
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