Public health organizations throughout the world have started using microbial genomics to investigate outbreaks and conduct surveillance. Public Health Ontario (PHO) aims to prioritize pathogens for genomics in Ontario based on a robust methodology to focus resources. PHO’s approach was inspired by the work of the World Health Organization (WHO) on the prioritization of bacteria and fungi with antimicrobial resistance. A PHO working group used six criteria to develop a multi-criteria decision analysis method and the weighting for each criteria was done through consultation with stakeholders in Ontario and, more broadly, in Canada. This Rounds presentation will present detailed information on the benefits of genomics based on the literature and the results of this prioritization exercise.
Intended audience: Public health staff working in genomics, infection prevention and control (IPAC), research; microbiologists, epidemiologists, laboratory staff.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain the importance of prioritization exercises in public health organizations
- Describe how microbial genomics can impact decision-making in public health during outbreaks
- Explore the impact and benefits of using microbial genomics in public health practice
Presenter(s): Dr. Sandra Isabel
Dr. Sandra Isabel, MD, PhD, is a medical microbiologist at Public Health Ontario. Her research focuses on improving the prevention and diagnosis of infectious diseases through innovative technologies. At PHO, she leads a working group defining which pathogens will be prioritized for genome sequencing.
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies or views of Public Health Ontario, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by Public Health Ontario.
Accreditation
Public Health Ontario Rounds are a self-approved group learning activity (Section 1) as defined by the Maintenance of Certification Program of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC). In order to receive written documentation for Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits, please check “Yes” beside the question “Do you require CME credits?” on the registration form.
College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) Affiliate Members may count RCPSC credits toward their Mainpro+ credit requirements. All other CFPC members may claim up to 50 Certified credits per cycle for participation in RCPSC MOC Section 1 accredited activities.
PHO Rounds are also approved by the Council of Professional Experience for professional development hours (PDHs) for members of the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI).
For more information or for a record of registration for other Continuing Education purposes, please contact capacitybuilding@oahpp.ca.
Accessibility
Public Health Ontario is committed to complying with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodations to participate in this event, please contact 647-260-7100 or capacitybuilding@oahpp.ca.
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