QUESTION: A close friend has been troubled by manic depression for many years. She’s now in her 40s and recently found out that she already has...
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 unnecessary medical tests may do more harm than good
I’ve had really bad back pain recently. Should I have an MRI, CT scan or even an X-ray to find out what’s causing my discomfort?
What to do when you can’t afford your medications
I’ve been prescribed several medications for various health problems. But I find it hard to pay for my drugs. What am I supposed to do it when I...
What surgery patients need to know about opioids
Will I get hooked on the opioid medication I'll be given to control pain after surgery?
Why patients with advanced dementia should be getting palliative care, not feeding tubes
My mother has advanced dementia and lives in a nursing home. She is now having problems swallowing her food. What are the pros and cons of feeding...
Why it’s so hard for doctors to create electronic medical records
Changing to electronic medical records is a daunting task for physicians who have been in practice for a long time.
How to find a health app that’s right for you
I want to pay more attention to my health. I must admit I am a bit of a techno geek. How can I find an app that suits my needs?
Patients put at risk when health-care workers shun flu shots
To properly protect patients, the vaccination rate for health-care providers should be higher.
Putting the risks of Zika virus into perspective for travellers
WHO has declared that Zika no longer represents a public health emergency, but that doesn’t mean you can let your guard down.
Why antipsychotic drugs can be risky for dementia patients
A growing body of research now suggests that prolonged use of antipsychotic drugs can pose risks to dementia patients.