In medicine, uncertainty is part of daily life. Patients don’t always fit neatly into guidelines, evidence is constantly evolving, and even the best clinicians sometimes disagree. Yet much of medical education is still delivered as if there’s always a single right answer.
At Virtual Hallway, we think there’s room to embrace the gray areas, spark conversations, and think more deeply. That’s why we’re excited to announce the launch of the Virtual Hallway Debate Series on October 23, 2025 at noon eastern!
This isn’t a new idea for us. Years ago, while in residency at Dalhousie, our co-founders Daniel and Jacob launched the Psychiatry Debates. They were surrounded by brilliant mentors. But they saw that there were few opportunities for clinicians to openly test their ideas against one another in a structured, respectful way.
The debates quickly became popular. Seeing important ideas being discussed and debated was energizing, thought-provoking, and memorable. What stood out wasn’t who “won” or “lost,” but how much everyone learned by wrestling with different perspectives.
Those conversations sparked curiosity, sharpened critical thinking, and built a stronger sense of community.
That spirit has stayed with us ever since.
Traditional lectures play an important role in medical education. But they’re often one-directional: a speaker presents, an audience listens. Debate changes the dynamic.
For complex or less-than-clear-cut topics, debate offers a way to explore the nuances. Not to crown a single “right” answer, but to develop the skills of critical thinking and open dialogue.
At its core, Virtual Hallway is about connection: helping clinicians communicate, collaborate, and learn from one another. Every day, we see how transformative it can be when doctors share their knowledge directly.
The Debate Series is a natural extension of that mission. By bringing clinicians together in structured dialogue, we’re building not just knowledge, but community.
Each debate will feature four debaters — two on each side — tackling a timely and important clinical question. A moderator will guide the discussion, while the audience will be invited to weigh in, vote, and engage.
This will be a series, not a one-off. Our vision is to make debate a recurring part of CME: a format clinicians can look forward to, learn from, and even participate in.
The first debate launches in just a few weeks. We’ll share more details soon, but for now we invite you to mark your calendars and get ready to join us.
We believe that debate isn’t just a way of learning — it’s a way of building better medicine. By testing our ideas against one another, we grow stronger together.
We hope you’ll join us for the inaugural Virtual Hallway Debate and be part of this new chapter in CME.
Listen to the CME summary on the Virtual Hallway Podcast:
In her recent Virtual Hallway lecture, dermatologist Dr. Fareen Mussani reframed seborrheic dermatitis (SD) as a condition that’s both common and deeply impactful—far beyond the visible flakes. Affecting over 5% of the population (likely more), SD can cause significant itch, sleep disruption, and quality of life issues comparable to acne and rosacea.
More Than Skin-Deep
Dr. Mussani emphasized that SD is a chronic inflammatory disease involving skin barrier dysfunction, excess sebum, and malassezia yeast. It often shows up on the scalp, face, chest, and ears—and can easily be confused with other conditions like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, or rosacea.
A New Option: Roflumilast Foam 0.3%
Traditionally, treatment has been piecemeal—steroids, antifungals, and shampoo regimens. But 2024 brings a promising new tool: Roflumilast Foam 0.3%, a non-steroidal topical approved for patients 9 and older. It’s well tolerated, works on the scalp, face, and body, and significantly improves both inflammation and itch in as little as 8 weeks.
Dr. Mussani’s takeaway: “You can stop when you’re clear, and restart at the first sign of a flare.” For patients and clinicians tired of cycling through ineffective OTC options, this streamlined approach could be a game-changer.
Watch the full lecture on Virtual Hallway for more on diagnosis tips, treatment comparisons, and practical pearls from Dr. Mussani.
Disclaimer: This post shares educational insights and does not replace personalized medical advice.
Learn from Dr. Melinda Gooderham about atopic dermatitis (AD), here is a summary from her session:
Don't feel like reading, listen to the podcast:
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is far more than “just a rash.” In her recent Virtual Hallway lecture, dermatologist Dr. Melinda Gooderham illuminated how this chronic skin condition profoundly affects patients' lives—from relentless itching and sleep disruption to mental health struggles and missed life events. Here’s a look at the essential takeaways from her expert session and why you might want to watch the full lecture.
The Unseen Burden of Mild to Moderate AD
Up to 80% of patients have mild to moderate disease, yet even these cases can wreak havoc. Nearly 80% of Canadian patients report sleep loss, and many resort to trialing over 10 treatments, often with limited success. The disease can impair physical activity, cost patients days of work, and carry a significant emotional toll, particularly due to stigma and visible skin changes.
Diagnosis Isn’t Always Straightforward
Dr. Gooderham illustrated the complexity of diagnosing AD across age groups, skin tones, and phenotypes. Infants typically show symptoms on extensor surfaces, while adults tend to experience flexural involvement. In patients with skin of color, typical erythema might not be visible, and post-inflammatory pigmentation changes are often more distressing than the eczema itself.
Through visual case studies, Dr. Gooderham also highlighted how easily AD can be confused with seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, or even scabies. Diagnostic precision is important, including low-cost tools like fungal scrapes.
Topicals: Steroid-Free Options Are Expanding
For years, corticosteroids dominated treatment, but concerns about long-term use—including skin atrophy, striae, and even osteoporosis—have driven the field toward steroid-sparing therapies.
Here’s a snapshot of what’s now available:
Practical Pearls for Clinical Use
The Takeaway
Topical treatment for atopic dermatitis is evolving. With newer agents offering steroid-free control and better tolerability, it’s time to rethink how we manage this lifelong condition. Dr. Gooderham’s session provides a deep, practical look at how to navigate these options to improve patient quality of life.
Watch the Full Lecture
Want to dive deeper? Catch Dr. Gooderham’s full session on Virtual Hallway, where you can:
Stay ahead in your dermatology practice. Log in, watch, learn—and help your patients feel better, faster.
Dr. Garbens is a urologist based in Ontario with a clinical focus on minimally invasive treatments for urologic conditions. As the founder of Élevé, she leads a multidisciplinary team dedicated to delivering personalized, comprehensive care for pelvic health and overall wellness. Through cross-specialty collaboration and promoting research in common urological conditions, Dr. Garbens’ goal is to continually improve patient outcomes and the patient experience. She provides consults on Virtual Hallway to help physicians provide timely care.
Here is what she has to say:
What first drew you to start using Virtual Hallway, and how has it fit into your clinical workflow as a specialist?
"It can be difficult for patients to see a urologist, and for non-cancer concerns, patients often have to wait over a year. Many of these issues are non-surgical, and with the right help and education, certain treatments could be started by the family doctor. Virtual Hallway has created a way for family doctors to receive guidance on the urgency of a urological concern, as well as recommendations for starting certain treatments (where appropriate) while the patient waits to be seen."
Have there been any moments on Virtual Hallway that really stood out, where you felt your advice made a meaningful impact on patient care?
"There have been a few instances where, after discussion, the physician was able to avoid sending a consult. In other cases, recommendations for more urgent consultations were made."
How would you describe Virtual Hallway in three words?
"Efficient. Collaborative. Supportive."
What do you think makes those synchronous conversations more effective or efficient than asynchronous options?
"Allows you to connect to the actual physician. You can hear their voice, get an idea of their personality. Unfortunately now with the digital world, we don’t get to speak or see physicians like we used to, this is a nice compromise. Often we can also talk about other things and I learn some fun things about my colleagues."
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about how urologists can support PCPs, especially through a platform like this?
"A lot of urology is non-surgical and urological issues are COMMON. A platform like this gives education, tools and confidence to family doctors so they can start treatments for patients (ex. Vaginal estrogen, BPH medications) which can often improve patients symptoms so they no longer need to see us. I love teaching patients and doctors about vaginal therapy for UTIs and GSM."
Do you have any current areas of clinical or research focus that you’re especially passionate about?
"Yes! I'm currently developing a patient education library, as I believe education is a cornerstone of effective treatment. In addition, I'm initiating studies on the role of the vaginal microbiome in various urogynecological conditions and collaborating with microbiologists to explore this important area further."
If you were speaking to a colleague who hasn’t tried Virtual Hallway yet, what would you want them to know?
"It’s easy, it’s quick, it helps fill the gap of patient care. Try it!"
What are the top three question you often get asked in Urology by PCPs on Virtual Hallway?
1. Referral for microscopic hematuria.
2. Renal cysts/masses or imaging findings.
3. PSA screening
And some bonus questions that are just for fun...
Do you have any healthcare icks?
"Bellybutton hygiene. Please clean it."
What’s a non-medical skill you’re surprisingly good at?
"I used to be good at drawing. I haven't had much time to do this since I became a doctor. I do have a good sense of humour. Luckily, most urologists do."
Is there a show, book or podcast you are into at the moment?
"I really like the Curbsiders Podcast, great educational tool and I highly recommend it."
Dr. Garbens is available to book on Virtual Hallway
This year, we hosted a record-breaking 29 lectures covering diverse topics like chronic diseases and mental health. After analyzing attendance data, audience feedback, and engagement, we’ve curated the top five lectures that made the biggest impact in 2024.
Whether you want to watch the recorded lectures on-demand or listen to our brand-new, AI-generated podcast summaries, we’ve got you covered.
Our team considered live attendance, Q&A engagement, on-demand rewatch stats, audience feedback, and insights from our internal experts to bring you the definitive list.
Title: “Navigating Complex COPD Cases: Strategies To Prevent Holiday Exacerbations”
Original Air Date: November 8, 2024
Why It Made the List: Dr. Landry captivated the audience with actionable strategies for improving COPD outcomes, from reducing hospital readmissions to integrating pulmonary rehab into primary care. His updates on inhaler therapies were especially impactful for clinicians managing chronic respiratory conditions.
#4: Dr. David Cherney on Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Title: “Simplifying CKD In T2D: Streamlined Strategies For Better Patient Outcomes”
Original Air Date: September 13, 2024
Why It Made the List: Ok, this one made it in part because it was part of a three part series. This one stood out for its practical advice on CKD management.
#3: Dr. David Gardner on Switching and Stopping Antidepressants
Title: “Navigating The Murky Waters: Switching or Stopping Antidepressants in Primary Care”
Original Air Date: October 16, 2024
Why It Made the List: Dr. Gardner’s practical approach to this vexing problem received a record number of rewatches. It’s no surprise, effectively managing antidepressant medications is as much art as science.
#2: Dr. Serge Lessard on Insomnia Management
Title: “The Cardiovascular and Metabolic Impact of Insomnia”
Original Air Date: January 26, 2024
Why It Made the List: Insomnia is common. Super common. Managing this condition is important not just to improve quality of life but to avert a host of complications. Dr. Lessard provided expert insights into treating insomnia without relying on medication. Key Takeaways:
#1: Dr. Celia Robichaud on ADHD
Title: “Navigating ADHD in Primary Care: From Diagnosis to Treatment and Beyond”
Original Air Date: September 20, 2024
Why It Made the List: This lecture was a standout hit, earning the highest engagement of the year. Dr. Robichaud’s expertise and practical tips for diagnosing and managing ADHD resonated deeply with the audience. The Q&A was lively, reflecting the widespread interest in this topic.
Bonus: Behind the Scenes of Our AI Podcasts
Using natural language processing, we transformed each lecture into a relaxed, two-person dialogue—so you can absorb the key points on your commute, during a workout, or whenever you have a spare moment. Our AI co-hosts break down technical details into everyday language, making it easy to follow even if you’re multitasking. Bet you can’t tell that they are AI.
We hope these top picks spark new ideas for your practice and empower you to deliver the best patient care. Whether you choose to watch or listen, these sessions capture some of the most insightful moments from 2024.
Watch All 5 Lectures On-Demand
Subscribe to Our Podcast: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Additional Resources
Upcoming Events: Interested in our next live lecture? We have two big lectures coming up in January. Reserve your spot today.
January 10, 2025: Navigating PTSD and Anxiety Disorders in Primary Care: Diagnosis, Management, and Clinical Pearls.
Dr. David Lundrigan Register
January 17, 2025: Multiple Sclerosis Essentials: Recognizing, Diagnosing, and Managing Symptoms in Clinical Practice
Dr. Caitlyn Tarlton Register
As the holidays approach, COPD patients face an increased risk of exacerbations due to seasonal stress and winter illnesses. In his recent Virtual Hallway lecture, respirologist Dr. Pierre Landry shared strategies for preventing these flares and optimizing treatment, including the advantages of single inhaler triple therapy (SITT). Here’s a quick dive into his clinical insights.
Each COPD exacerbation causes a loss of lung function, pushing patients further from their baseline. Older adults often fare worse, with hospital stays leading to rapid deconditioning. Avoiding these exacerbations isn’t just about lung health—it’s about preserving quality of life.
For prevention, nothing tops smoking cessation. Dr. Landry recommends a mix of pharmacologic aids, such as nicotine replacement and varenicline, to support patients ready to quit. He also emphasizes the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation, though access remains limited.
Single inhaler triple therapy (SITT) combines a LAMA, LABA, and ICS in one device. SITT’s simplicity increases patient adherence and reduces exacerbations by up to 33% compared to multiple inhalers. Dr. Landry is clear: for patients struggling with adherence or facing frequent exacerbations, SITT can simplify management and improve outcomes.
Vaccinations are another key. Dr. Landry advocates annual flu and COVID-19 shots, as well as pneumococcal and RSV vaccines, to guard against infections that worsen COPD. Prevention here means fewer exacerbations and safer winters.
When inhaled therapies fall short, Dr. Landry turns to oral treatments like azithromycin and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to control inflammation and mucus. These additions, especially in non-smokers, can make a critical difference for those with chronic bronchitis symptoms.
While still in clinical trials for COPD in Canada, biologics like dupilumab could soon offer new options for patients with an eosinophilic phenotype. Until then, Dr. Landry advises focusing on proven treatments.
Dr. Landry’s approach to COPD management focuses on strong adherence, preventive care, and comprehensive treatment, all designed to keep patients out of hospitals and living fuller lives. Single inhaler triple therapy, combined with vaccinations and lifestyle support, can be a straightforward yet powerful approach.
Catch the full recording on the Virtual Hallway platform to get all of Dr. Landry’s practical tips on COPD management.
Disclaimer: This post shares educational insights and does not replace personalized medical advice.
As we enter flu season, it's crucial to be prepared for the increased risk of COPD exacerbations in our patients. Dr. Landry, in his webinar on "Preventive Care in COPD," emphasizes that viral infections are one of the most common triggers for these exacerbations, making this a particularly important topic during flu season12.
The webinar, "Preventive Care in COPD: The Role of Vaccination in Reducing Exacerbations During Flu Season," emphasizes a multifaceted approach to managing COPD, going beyond just addressing symptoms.
Here's a summary of key takeaways:
Influenza Vaccination: Dr. Landry recommends annual influenza vaccination for all COPD patients. He suggests the high-dose vaccine for eligible patients as it elicits a stronger immune response, which is especially important for older adults who may have weaker immune systems9.
Pneumococcal Vaccination: Given the potential for pneumococcal infections to trigger exacerbations, Dr. Landry recommends pneumococcal vaccination with both the PCV15 or PCV20 followed by the PCV23 for optimal protection.
COVID-19 Vaccination: Dr. Landry advises healthcare professionals to stay informed about the latest COVID-19 vaccination guidelines, as these recommendations can change based on the circulating variants and guidance from public health authorities.
RSV Vaccination: Dr. Landry highlights the underappreciated burden of RSV infection in older adults, with a 1 in 9 chance of death for those hospitalized. He strongly recommends the RSV vaccine, particularly for patients over 60, as studies show it is safe and effective in preventing severe RSV infections, a significant risk factor for exacerbations.
By embracing a comprehensive approach that includes both pharmacological interventions like triple inhaled therapy and preventive measures like vaccination, healthcare professionals can make a significant difference in the lives of their COPD patients, particularly during the challenging flu season.
Remember, the webinar recording is available for free on the Virtual Hallways platform. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of COPD management and access practical tools to improve patient care!
Disclaimer: This lecture is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice or treatment plans tailored to individual patients."
Virtual Hallway recently hosted a highly anticipated session led by Dr. Celia Robichaud, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, focused on the challenges of managing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in primary care settings. Dr. Robichaud shared expert strategies for identifying, diagnosing, and managing ADHD, from youth to adulthood, while addressing the complexities of comorbid conditions and the impact of social media on ADHD awareness.
Accurate ADHD Diagnosis in Primary Care:
ADHD and Comorbid Conditions:
Medication Management:
Importance of Non-Pharmacological Strategies:
The Role of Trauma:
Q&A Highlights: During the Q&A, participants discussed the role of diet, specifically high sugar intake, in ADHD management. Dr. Robichaud stressed the importance of balanced nutrition, while noting that no specific diet cures ADHD. The conversation also touched on the rising trend of adult ADHD diagnosis and the need for careful assessment beyond self-reported symptoms.
Missed the Lecture? Catch the full session on-demand and earn your MainPro+ credits here. Learn from Dr. Robichaud’s comprehensive approach to ADHD diagnosis and treatment, and enhance your practice with the latest insights.
Disclaimer: This lecture is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice or treatment plans tailored to individual patients."
As we observe Women's Health Month, let’s broaden our focus beyond reproductive health to address the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among women—non-communicable diseases (NCDs). At Virtual Hallway, our commitment is to empower healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools to tackle these health challenges through expert-led discussions and collaborations.
NCDs are the principal cause of death and disability globally, especially among women, overshadowing other health concerns traditionally emphasized in women’s health narratives. In 2012 alone, an estimated 18.1 million women died from NCDs, with cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and respiratory diseases leading the list.
Contrary to the longstanding view of CVD as a male-centric issue, it is actually the leading cause of death among women worldwide. Research shows that sex differences in healthcare access, treatment, and outcomes are stark, with women often receiving less aggressive treatment than men for similar conditions. Virtual Hallway’s specialists, like those focusing on cardiology and diabetes management, are important resources for bridging these gaps in care.
Our platform offers a series of lectures and the ability to consult with specialists across various fields—including cardiovascular health, diabetes, and mental health. These resources are designed not just to educate but to actively support primary care practitioners in providing care tailored to the needs of women.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) presents a complex challenge in gastroenterology, characterized by a spectrum of symptoms that defy a one-size-fits-all approach. The recent lecture, "Ins and Outs of IBS," offers clinicians a deep dive into the nuanced understanding of this prevalent condition, blending the latest research with clinical insights to advance patient care.
IBS, often encountered in clinical practice, demands a multifaceted approach. This lecture moves beyond traditional diagnostic criteria to explore emerging paradigms in pathophysiology, patient management, and therapeutic innovation. It serves as a primer for clinicians seeking to enhance their understanding and approach to IBS, emphasizing the importance of a personalized treatment strategy.
Key highlights include an examination of the gut-brain axis and its implications for IBS management, an overview of novel dietary interventions, and a critical analysis of pharmacological versus non-pharmacological treatments. The lecture elucidates the interconnectivity of psychological, dietary, and lifestyle factors with IBS symptoms, offering a comprehensive framework for holistic patient care.
What sets this lecture apart is not just the caliber of the content but the engaging presentation style, tailored for the intellectual curiosity of clinicians. It challenges conventional wisdom, encourages critical thinking, and fosters a dialogue on innovative practices in IBS treatment.
For clinicians dedicated to advancing their practice and improving patient outcomes, this lecture is an invaluable resource. It's an opportunity to refine diagnostic acumen, explore new therapeutic avenues, and join a community of thought leaders in gastroenterology.
Embark on this intellectual journey through the "Ins and Outs of IBS," and arm yourself with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of this disorder with confidence and competence.
