Conference Coverage: 2026 Chronic Disease at Work
For the past 11 years, Benefits Canada’s Chronic Disease at Work conference has examined the current trends in chronic disease in Canada and what they mean for plan sponsors.
In a virtual format on Feb. 4, attendees learned about topics including key trends in chronic disease management and prevention, chronic skin conditions, diabetes, postpartum depression and more.
Here’s what you missed!
Alexandra Dalkie
Sun Life
Rising chronic disease rates among young people, women underscore need for inclusive programs
Rising rates of chronic illness among younger people and women are changing the picture of chronic disease in Canada
Toronto Dermatology Centre
Addressing chronic skin conditions in the workplace
“Eczema is like a rollercoaster; it’s characterized by flares and remissions and flares and remissions — and the cruelest thing is that it’s unpredictable and the flares come at the absolute worst time.”
This session was made possible by Galderma.
Dr. Tanya Tulipan
Dalhousie University
What benefits plan sponsors need to know about postpartum depression
Postpartum depression is the most common medical complication of pregnancy and post-pregnancy.
This session was made possible by Biogen.
Telus Health Care Centres
Matthew Chow
Telus Health
How relationship-based care can drive health outcomes, manage chronic disease
Mental and physical health care have long been treated as separate silos, but there’s a growing recognition in the benefits industry that an integrated, personalized care experience can improve health outcomes, manage chronic disease and reduce “ballooning health spend.”
Michael Vallis
Dalhousie University
Supportive workplaces can reduce stigma around type 1 diabetes, support self-management
The workplace can play an important role in helping to normalize type 1 diabetes for employees living with the condition and those whose children may be diagnosed.
This session was made possible by Sanofi.
GSK Canada
Education, regular screening could improve diagnosis, treatment of chronic hepatitis B
With chronic hepatitis B under-diagnosed and under-treated in Canada, benefits plan sponsors can help close the gap with education, vaccination and detection campaigns.
Rachel Wong
Symcor
A look at Symcor’s prevention-focused new chronic disease management program
In the 30 years since Symcor’s inception, it has brought in many employees with diverse ages, backgrounds, cultures and experiences.
Sponsors
To view highlights from the 2025 Chronic Disease at Work conference, click here.
To view highlights from the 2024 Chronic Disease at Work conference, click here.
To view highlights from the 2023 Chronic Disease at Work conference, click here.
To view highlights from the 2022 Chronic Disease at Work conference, click here.
To view highlights from the 2021 Chronic Disease at Work conference, click here.