Health Reports
A Canadian peer-reviewed journal of population health and health services research
June 2026
Canadian Active Living Environments 2.0: Development of an open-source pipeline for the replication and extension of the Canadian Active Living Environments measure
,
Search for Statistics Canada publications by Meisam Ghasedi,
Meisam Ghasedi, ORCID for Meisam Ghasedi
, Gorham Achot, and
Search for Statistics Canada publications by Nancy A. Ross,
Nancy A. Ross, ORCID for Nancy A. Ross
The way walkability is conceptualized and operationalized has evolved over time, transitioning from a utility- and infrastructure-centred view to a more comprehensive definition that includes factors such as destination accessibility, safety, and connectivity. Walkability is measured because these neighbourhood features can influence how easily people can incorporate walking and other active modes of transportation into daily life, with implications for population health. These features are closely linked to improved public health and the creation of more vibrant and livable communities. However, walkable environments are not a panacea: associations with health and social outcomes are not always strong or consistent and can be influenced by socioeconomic and other contextual factors. In addition, highly walkable areas can have higher exposure to traffic-related air pollution, which may offset some cardiometabolic benefits in certain contexts. As cities continue to grow, the focus on creating more walkable living environments has become more widespread. Environments that support walking and active transport provide an accessible way for individuals to maintain regular physical activity, social cohesion, and well-being.
Full article PDF versionPatient experiences with virtual health care in Canada: Modes of delivery and satisfaction with care
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated patients’ access to virtual health care in Canada. Before the pandemic, 4% of patients used virtual video consultations and 10% used digital communication such as email, text, or an online chat. At the onset of the pandemic, 54% of patients reported having had a virtual appointment for a non-COVID-19 issue in April 2020. Although virtual visits declined to about 33% from January 2021 to March 2022, their continued high uptake highlights the important role of virtual care. Because the expansion of virtual care was driven by infection control rather than patient experience, examining patient experiences is key for informing sustainable, patient-centred care models.
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