HEALTH PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES

Lymphedema (LE) is a chronic disorder that affects millions, yet it remains under-recognized and often misdiagnosed. Early identification and intervention can improve lymphatic function, slow, reverse or halt the progression of lymphedema and reduce its physical, mental and economic burdens to both individuals and society. 

BCLA AWARDS: 

BCLA is offering up to $2000 towards lymphedema education to increase needed manual lymph drainage therapists in underserved parts of BC by offering financial incentives to reduce cost of training.  These therapists help patients by providing education, reduction phase bandaging and MLD so patients can manage lymphedema on their own.

To apply for an award, download the application form here, fill it out and email to info@bclymph.org.

OTHER RESOURCES: 

• Canadian Lymphedema Framework (CLF) - offers leadership in defining lymphatic education for health care professionals, patients and general public
  Here are a few items found on the CLF site:

     - Physician Handout on Lymphedema with Prevalence in Canada 

     - Clinical detection of breast cancer related lymphedema 
     - Library of articles included in Pathways magazines, starting from 2012

     - Health Professionals (HP) Toolkit

• Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN) - internationally recognized non-profit organization founded in 1998 to fight lymphatic disorders (LD) through education, research, and advocacy.
  Here are a few items found on the LE&RN site:
  - LE&RN National Indicator Report Summary - One page handout highlighting what every health care professional should know about Lymphedema. 
  - LE&RN National Indicator Full Report on Cancer-Related Lymphedema (LE)

• A collection of studies supporting best guidelines for lymphedema treatment  (14 studies at the bottom of the page)

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LYMPHEDEMA EDUCATION COURSES: 

BC Physiatrist Dr. Kei summary of presentation to BC Cancer - May 29 2024

An online introductory micro course for Health Professionals is available from the University of Alberta. This course is an introduction for any generalist healthcare clinicians who may see individuals experiencing lymphedema or chronic edema. 

In depth training  is offered by the following schools and meet the educational requirements of Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) for therapists to be listed as certified lymphedema therapists.

• DR. VODDER SCHOOL™ INTERNATIONAL Vancouver 
  Tel: 1-800-522-9862 | info@vodderschool.com The Dr. Vodder School International offers full Lymphedema training to health care professionals in CDT/MLD. Training is offered in many locations worldwide with the head office in Vancouver, BC. For those living with Lymphedema, go to our website and click on FIND A THERAPIST to find a Vodder-trained therapist in your home area.

• Academy of Lymphatic Studies 
  Courses in manual lymph drainage (MLD) and complete decongestive therapy (CDT)

• Klose Training and Consulting 
  Online and classroom lymphedema education

• Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy
  Lymphedema therapy certification courses and workshops

• Foeldi College 
  Teaching institute for manual lymph drainage and complete physical therapy

• ILWTI International Lymphedema and Wound Training Institute