My aunt's doctor said she had about six months to live. She died over one month later. Are doctors usually this bad at predicting how long patients...
Personal Health Navigator
Paul Taylor retired from his role as Sunnybrook’s Patient Navigation Advisor in 2020. From 2013 to 2020, he wrote a regular column in which he provided advice and answered questions from patients and their families. Follow Paul on Twitter @epaultaylor
Why Lyme disease can be so hard to diagnose and treat
My doctor said I had Lyme disease and put me on antibiotics for a month. I finished the treatment, but I still have symptoms. Is this typical for...
Finding reliable sunglasses may be harder than you think
Summertime is almost here and I want to get a new pair of sunglasses. What should I buy to best protect my eyes?
Why heartburn drugs should be used sparingly
My doctor wants me to stop taking a drug which I need to control my heartburn. I’ve been on this drug for years without any problems. Why should I...
Why medical marijuana may be better than opioids for treating cancer pain
QUESTION: My father is 84 and has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. The medication he has been prescribed for pain isn’t working. He wants to try...
Why are elderly patients at risk of delirium in the ER?
QUESTION: My 80-year-old mother recently spent more than a day in an emergency department waiting for a hospital bed so she could be treated for...
What’s the ‘average’ wait time for cancer surgery? It’s complicated
QUESTION: My mom has been diagnosed with colon cancer and has an appointment to see a surgeon. We are so anxious about this whole process. What is...
Q&A with M.P. Rob Oliphant, co-chair of the parliamentary committee on assisted dying
Within the next few weeks, the federal government is expected to unveil legislation permitting Canadians to seek medical help to die. Earlier this...
Assisted death: What’s it like for patients and families?
QUESTION: Can you describe a “typical” assisted death? I would like to know exactly what is given to the patient and does it involve any...
Can exercise help overcome depression?
I suffer from depression and my doctor has given me a prescription for antidepressant medication. She says my mood may improve if I also increase my...