CSEM has received questions from its members regarding the eligibility and safety of the COVID-19 vaccines and patients with endocrine conditions. Health Canada recommendations are changing rapidly. Recognizing there is little data to address groups excluded in the vaccine trials, a risk benefit assessment will need to be case-by-case and in consideration of national, provincial and local regulations.

CSEM supports equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines for individuals with endocrine conditions. Patients with type 1 diabetes, other autoimmune conditions, and immunocompromised health should have a risk/benefit discussion with their health care provider to make an informed decision. Some patients have multiple comorbidities that affect their vaccine status and patients may need to discuss with the relevant specialist(s).

Please see our statement for resources and references, including Diabetes Canada's statement.

December 21, 2020 Update:

CSEM is aware of a possible shortage of hydrocortisone (Cortef®) 10 mg. While Pfizer Canada’s stock of hydrocortisone (10-mg tablets) has been depleted, new supply is on track for mid-January, 2021. Additionally, it is anticipated that there is currently enough product at the community pharmacy level to cover the supply gap. Pfizer has issued the following notice to pharmacies informing them of the backlog and suggesting conservation of inventory when possible:

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medSask has a helpful conservation strategy document here: https://medsask.usask.ca/documents/drug-shortages-pdfs/hydrocortisone_shortage.pdf.

We will continue to remain in contact with Pfizer Canada and Health Canada's Drug Shortage Unit for regular updates and we will keep you keep you informed.

View the CSEM 2020 Annual Report here.

Renew Your Membership

Your CSEM membership expires January 15, 2021. Don't miss out on important updates and stay connected with your colleagues. Renew online now.

Not only do CSEM members get discounts at the Diabetes Canada/CSEM Professional Conference and other meetings, your membership also allows you to:

• contribute and collaborate with a network of endocrinologists across Canada;
• build your career potential through a united community;
• vote and take part in CSEM committees and leadership roles;
• stay connected and informed about the latest in endocrinology and metabolism, educational opportunities and events.

CSEM values your membership. It is only through a strong and engaged member base that we can effectively advocate for excellence in endocrinology research, education, and patient care, and advance the discipline of endocrinology and metabolism in Canada.

The 2020 Virtual Diabetes Canada/CSEM Professional Conference was a great success!

Those who registered for the Conference on October 28–30, 2020 and/or CSEM Residents’ Day on October 27 can log in to the Conference website and access the sessions at no cost until October 2021.

While we are unsure what the next year holds, please save the date now for the 2021 conference, December 8–11, hopefully in Toronto.

The full 2020 Conference program is available here.

The Canadian Journal of Diabetes: 2020 Virtual Diabetes Canada/CSEM Professional Conference Abstracts eOral Presentations are available here.

The final Resident' Day Review Course program is available here.

The CSEM Resident Clinical Vignette/Research Project abstract book is available here.