What is the cardiometabolic collaborative clinic?
We are a specialist-run, multidisciplinary, collaborative clinic focusing on management of cardiometabolic risk factors in a timely manner. Getting cardiometabolic risk factors under control decreases the risk of cardiac events and mortality, but most physicians don’t have the time to properly discuss the risks and treatment, nor to get patients to target. This clinic combines various specialties to allow for comprehensive patient assessment followed by intensive medical treatment to get patients to evidence based risk targets. All patients are offered enrollment in a 12 week lifestyle program run by Registered Dieticians to improve eating habits for the best cardiometabolic success. There is currently no cost to the patient for this program. If your patient is under the age of 75, does not have end stage renal disease, and is motivated to improve their risk factors, please send in a referral form and we would be happy to help.
The lifestyle program
The Lifestyle Program is a comprehensive 12 week program that is designed to help support patients in meeting their wellness goals. Each week, participants meet in a group setting for a 1-hour class led by a Registered Dietitian who is also a certified Craving Change facilitator. Weekly topics range from label reading, portion control and meal planning, to understanding the reasons behind food choices and behaviors. Participants are encouraged to ask questions and take part in group discussions during these interactive sessions. Prior to week 1 of the group sessions, each participant will meet for a one-on-one session with the Registered Dietitian and patients will be asked to complete questionnaires both at the start and end of the program.
How we see exercise
The health benefits of regular exercise are well-established and far-reaching. Physical activity and exercise can lower the risk of developing metabolic disease such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Among persons who have diabetes and high blood pressure, it can improve overall control and reduce the need for medications. Physical activity can improve depression and anxiety, and lead to greater quality of life. Despite convincing evidence for health benefits, few people in Canada meet physical activity guidelines. About 80% of Canadian adults do not meet the recommended 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity per week. Physical activity is an easily accessible and very effective therapy for disease prevention and health promotion.
How we see diet
The "one size fits all" approach cannot be applied to weight loss. A "diet" or eating plan that works for one individual may not be the ideal plan for someone else. Because weight management is a long-term endeavor, long-term weight loss sustainability is the goal. One must consider many different factors when choosing a weight management regime. Our goal is to assist patients in finding a strategy to focus on health behaviors, which allows them to achieve and maintain the healthiest weight that is sustainable for them with reasonable effort. We remind patients that a weight loss plan can only remain effective for as long as someone can maintain it.
How we see the patient-doctor relationship
Partnership is the key to a successful medical relationship. We are passionate about our work with patients with cardiac risk factors and intent on decreasing cardiovascular events and death. We aim to provide interested patients with the best medical advice available from current evidence. Patients will find the clinic supportive as they work on both medication and lifestyle changes in a positive and team based environment.