Series: CVFP Stories
The Power of Patient Stories
Stories are fact sharing, knowledge transfer, lived experience and a way to understand what matters most to patients and providers.
Every story matters -- whether it is a patient sharing their experience and perspective, or a health provider describing their personal approach for care delivery. Not as an anecdote with a neat start and end. But as something dynamic that we can learn from. Stories are fact sharing, knowledge transfer, lived experience and a way to understand what matters most to patients and providers. The knowledge gained can be an effective tool to inform and evolve health care.
We are privileged to share the experiences of our Crowfoot Village Family Practice patients, as told in their own words.
“I was diagnosed by my CVFP physician Dr. Rick Ward to be suffering from hyperthyroidism after ending up in
Emergency with racing heart and fibrillation. That day he acted very quickly
once he was made aware of my symptoms. The emergency crew brought my heart rate
down with drugs but didn't diagnose hyperthyroidism. Dr. Ward asked for another test
the following day and got the answer! I saw an endocrinologist within a week. It'll take
about 18 months or so to settle down.” -- Sheila, CVFP Patient
“Five years prior Dr. Ward diagnosed my cancer (stomach lymphoma) and by acting very quickly with the Yellow Team I had scans and saw a hematologist within days. This was all over the Christmas period. He stayed in touch with me daily over Christmas week until my chemotherapy started the following week. He and the team pushed as the tumour was large and disperse (stages 3-4). I am now 5 years clear, fingers crossed.”
Dr. Greg Powell, O.C., MD FRCPC, Vice Chair of the Board for the Health Quality Council of Alberta (HQCA)
CVFP Family Physician Dr. Rick Ward adds, "It's so important for us to hear from our patients as they reflect on their health journeys. It helps us to understand what matters most so that we can ensure quality care. Our Yellow Team worked to guide and support Sheila through not one but two major health challenges. It was a co-ordinated effort by a caring team striving for the best possible health outcome. I think Sheila's story highlights the influence primary care has on health promotion."