Vaccination passport apps could help society reopen – first they have to be secure, private and trusted

Vaccine passports may become unavoidable as we gradually move out of the pandemic. RNAO supports the use of one if it is designed in the proper way, given the serious concerns about equity, safety and privacy. We started the conversation before and now continue with an article published March 23 by Laurin Weissinger, a lecturer in cybersecurity at Tufts University.

Vaccine passports may be on the way – but are they a reason for hope or a cause for concern?

As the vaccination rollout advances, the discussion on vaccine passports intensifies. This is a complex issue with no easy answers, and RNAO intends to address it in the months to come from a perspective of equity and health for all. The following is an introductory article by Yara M. Asi, Post-Doctoral Scholar, Health Management and Informatics, University of Central Florida, originally published March 12.

Nurses wrap up Nursing Week with a call to government to increase paid sick days and boost minimum wage

As Nursing Week draws to a close (May 10 - 16), the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) is renewing its call for action to the Ontario government: Increase the number of paid sick days for workers who do not have access to this employee benefit and boost the province’s minimum wage. This demand addresses two of RNAO’s central concerns with the social determinants of health (SDOH).

A bill to support individuals in their homes and communities with assistive devices for mental health

We appreciate the following contribution from RNAO member Cheryl Forchuk. The article explains the importance of a private member’s bill submitted to the Ontario legislature: Bill 277 - Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care Amendment Act: Supporting Individuals in their Homes and Communities with Assistive Devices for Mental Health, 2021.

Vaccine engagement as a tool to address marginalization and exclusion

RN Amanda Ottley is a registered nurse and RNAO member working in the field of disability management. She is one of the founders of the Save Toronto Carnival community group and in this article, she introduces us to an inspiring grassroots effort. Thank you deeply for your work, Amanda!