From October 28 – November 1, IQMH is recognizing Canadian Patient Safety Week (CPSW) to raise awareness about health care harm and its effects on the health care system.

World Patient Safety Day is an international initiative by the World Health Organization (WHO) dedicated to emphasizing the importance of obtaining safe and high-quality health care.

Together with our affiliate, Accreditation Canada, IQMH is recognizing World Accreditation Day, a global initiative established by the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) to promote the value of accreditation.

IQMH is seeking volunteers to sit on its Proficiency Testing Scientific Committee(s), effective January 2025. Membership on committees consists of a three-year term of office, renewable once. Committees meet an average of four times a year for half-day or full-day meetings.

Together with our affiliate, Accreditation Canada, IQMH is recognizing National Indigenous History Month throughout June. This month is a time to reflect on the rich history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis across Canada. 

IQMH is joining the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) to raise awareness for Mental Health Week from May 6–12. Mental health plays a significant role in shaping many aspects of life and the overall well-being of an individual.

This National Volunteer Week, from April 14–20, IQMH acknowledges each of the Proficiency Testing Scientific Committees that consist of volunteer members, including laboratory physicians, scientists, and medical laboratory technologists.

From April 14–20, IQMH is joining the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) to celebrate National Medical Laboratory Week. This week highlights the indispensable contributions of Medical Laboratory Professionals (MLPs) in the health care system.

Today, April 7th, the World Health Organization celebrates World Health Day, an annual global event dedicated to raising awareness about the significance of individuals’ health and well-being.

On International Women’s Day IQMH would like to recognize the contributions and achievements of women in health care.

For half a century, IQMH has played a crucial role in actively advocating for and supporting quality laboratory services. IQMH promotes laboratory competence and enables the active detection of underlying and emerging issues. The internationally-recognized Proficiency Testing programs at IQMH allow health care providers to have confidence in accurate laboratory results enabling them to deliver safe, high-quality care.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a serious threat to patient safety and worldwide public health. The diminishing effectiveness of current antimicrobials, including antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals, against resistant organisms is a major concern. Infections acquired in health care settings contribute to prolonged hospital stays, higher mortality rates, and increased utilization of health care resources.

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, cancer is the leading cause of death in Canada primarily due to aging and the growth of the population.

Black History Month provides an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of Black communities in health care. This includes the countless contributions made by Black individuals within the health care sector, who have played a vital role in advancing medical research, improving patient care, and promoting health equity.

Did you know according to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, 500,000 Canadians are unable to work due to struggles with their mental health?