cas town hall - Shortage of Epidural Catheters/Kits

In response to the widespread shortage of epidural catheters and kits, the Canadian Anesthesiologists’ Society is planning a Town Hall to support its members through this challenging situation. Our CAS leadership has been in active communication with our provincial anesthesia leaders as well as Health Canada, catheter suppliers and the media. Our Obstetrical and Regional/Pain Section leaders have also been fielding many questions from a variety of stakeholders. The goal of this Town Hall is to provide information and guidance to our members on issues related to the epidural shortage.

Topics to be discussed:

• Current state of the shortage (cause, extent, expected duration)
• Exploration of alternative analgesia strategies
• To triage or not to triage (ethical, medico-legal and practical considerations)
• CAIRS as a means of reporting impact on patient care

Following the initial presentation, there will be a discussion period with an opportunity for attendees to provide input and ask questions. A recording of the event will be provided shortly thereafter.

Speakers:

1. Dr Dolores McKeen, CAS President, 
2. David Campbell, PhD, Ethicist, Kingston Health Sciences Centre
3. Dr Lorraine Chow, Vice Chair, CAS Obstetrics Section
4. Dr Anton Chau, Secretary/Treasurer, CAS Obstetrics Section
5. Dr Vishal Uppal, Chair, CAS Regional and Acute Pain Section
6. Dr Kathryn Sparrow, Chair, CAS CAIRS Committee