Hispanic populations have low HPV vaccination rates, although the vaccine is safe and efficacious. We surveyed a low-income Hispanic population to characterize knowledge gaps about the HPV vaccine and understand factors associated with the decision to vaccinate a child to determine how physicians can enhance vaccination rates. Surveys in English and Spanish were distributed to parents of children under age 18. Statistical analysis included logistic regression. Knowledge that the vaccine can prevent invasive cervical cancer most impacted intent to vaccinate. Physician recommendation to vaccinate was far more influential in a parent's decision compared to TV and other sources. Girls are more likely to receive the HPV vaccine over boys. While physician recommendation is critical, they have minimal time for education. Our results suggest that physicians should focus on the vaccine's link to cancer prevention, leaving other knowledge areas for the interdisciplinary care team.

While physicians play a vital role in motivating their patients, female patients may depend on this empathy more than males. The interdisciplinary care team can play an important role in helping patients create a support network where it may not exist.

Objective Some research suggests that social, political, and cultural life in the U.S. and Canada are growing divergent. We use health lifestyle theories to extend prior research and compare the U.S. and Canada on population health indicators. Methods The population health indicators include health behaviors, fertility, and cause-specific mortality for each of the United States (and Washington D.C.), and Canadian Provinces and Territories (N=64). Results Canada and the U.S. are significantly different on many health lifestyle variables. But, levels of the health lifestyle variables converge at the U.S./Canada border, and some U.S. States and Canadian Provinces or Territories exhibit similar health lifestyle patterns, regardless of whether they share an international border (these are mapped in the paper). Conclusions Although Canada and the U.S. differ on major population health indicators, some States, Provinces, and Territories exhibit marked similarities. Our paper concludes with a discussion about how our comparative perspective might inform population health policies.

In 2003, St. Vincent's Hospital (SVH) closed its doors. The authors investigate the involvement of the medical staff in the successful closure of SVH using the Physician Engagement (PE) Model. This 10-strategy model is based on engagement, communication, education and support. Results were gathered by surveys, unstructured interviews and meetings. Data suggested that engaging physicians in the process was favourable, particularly by using the PE model. Six recommendations are given to assist administrators/decision-makers in future closures.

Engaging physicians in health care administration is critical. Within Canada, physician leadership programs have not been designed to meet the needs of medical directors in Long-Term Care (LTC). This article explains how a pilot program for medical directors in LTC was created to develop their leadership skills, and how it has now become an annual event. The program must evolve to enable medical directors to participate in system change and innovation within LTC.