CAREICA HEALTH
Staff at Winnipeg-based Careica Health are focused on providing support to patients who suffer from sleep disordered breathing and respiratory disease. Photos by Darcy Finley
“We deal with a lot of people who have very compromised health and we use our expertise to help improve their quality of life.”
most clients will experience these issues for the rest of their lives, he says it is important for Careica Health to develop long-term relationships with its clients and ensure they are properly supported. “We defined our purpose about two-and-a- half years ago to help people live their best lives,” he says. “We deal with a lot of people who have very compromised health and we use our expertise to help improve their quality of life.” As part of this process, the company started a panel discussion with various healthcare professionals to determine the best ways to assist people suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Individuals with COPD typically suffer from progressive lung diseases such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and refractory (non-reversible) asthma. This discussion eventually focused on what an
oxygen provider can do to assist them. “One of the things we determined that could have the biggest impact was socialization,” McArthur says. “Socialization is extremely important when somebody’s mobility is compromised because they need supplemental oxygen. We’ve gone out of our way to ensure that the frequency of contact we have with our clients stays the same, and if we can find ways to enhance their lifestyle, then that’s so much the better.” Another aspect the company focusses on regarding its clients is helping them maintain an active lifestyle. Their staff work diligently with clients to help them slow their deterioration due to respiratory disease. The more active a lifestyle they can maintain, the greater the opportunities they will have to increase their socialization. McArthur says that business continues to grow for the company. The prevalence of
smoking remains one of the primary drivers of COPD and emphysema. The sleep side of the business is a bit different since the important of quality sleep has increased over the last decade. There is also more recognition about obstructive sleep apnea and how it can be treated. One of the organizations that has helped Careica succeed has been the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. “We certainly want to be part of an organization that is going to advocate for Manitoba businesses,” McArthur says. “We’ve got challenges and we’ve got opportunities and we need a single voice that advocates for Manitoba businesses. We also need to have an organization that draws businesses to Manitoba. The healthier and thriving businesses we can draw into this province, the more potential clients that we can support.” ■
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