BONUS: Summary of the "We are Here" podcast by The Association of Allied Health Professionals (AAHP)

Send us Fan Mail"We Are Here"Recorded at the 2025 AAHP Biennial General Meeting, The We Are Here Podcast features 20 inspiring voices from allied health across Newfoundland & Labrador. This series offers an authentic, on-the-ground look at the challenges, innovations, and vital roles of allied health professionals across the province. WATCH all the interviews here.I. A Diverse and Essential Workforce From physiotherapy and respiratory therapy to psychology, pharmacy, audiology, and social work, allied health professionals are essential partners in patient care. They work across all life stages, improving mobility, enabling communication, managing medications, delivering emergency and critical care, and helping people live independently. Many hold advanced degrees and bring passion, empathy, and technical skill to their work. As AAHP President Gordon Piercey notes, they are “highly educated, specialised, and dedicated to helping people.”II. Key System Challenges Recurring concerns include severe staffing shortages, long waitlists—especially in rural areas—and difficulty recruiting and retaining professionals. Participants described overburdened systems and time pressures that impact patient outcomes. Many called for better understanding and recognition of their roles, warning of the cost of underutilising this workforce. One example cited a major eye clinic operating at just 50% capacity due to staffing gaps. The strain is growing as the province’s population ages and healthcare needs intensify.III. Opportunities for Change Despite challenges, the tone is hopeful. Guests called for greater collaboration, integrated care teams, and allowing professionals to work to their full scope. Frontline voices want to be consulted in decision-making, bringing valuable insights into what works and what needs change. Innovation through technology, early intervention, and stronger support for new professionals are also seen as critical. The need for upstream, community-based care models was a frequent theme, alongside more visibility and respect for allied health roles.IV. A Call to Action Speakers consistently urge policymakers to “listen to us”—to the professionals delivering hands-on care every day. They call for improved resources, better training pipelines, and more public awareness. The need to promote allied health careers and increase support in rural areas is urgent. As one guest said, “valuable, knowledgeable people are leaving the system—and not enough are coming in.” Healthcare systems must evolve by supporting this essential workforce.V. Shared Values Throughout the podcast, a deep sense of dedication, resilience, and human connection shines through. Allied health professionals care deeply about the people they serve. Their stories show the power of collaboration, the impact of listening, and the drive to improve healthcare for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.Gale Force Wins started out simply as an inspirational podcast releasing episodes wherever you get your podcasts every Tuesday evening. We continue to do that every Tuesday but have expanded into custom content for clients. We also have perfected a conference and trade show offering where you can receive over 20 videos edited and posted to social media at the same time the event is unfolding.For businesses and organizations we also create digital content quickly and efficiently.Visit our services page here:https://galeforcewins.com/servicesTo message Gerry visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrycarew/To message Allan visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanadale/