Discussing Innovative Solutions for Underserved Regions at AAAAI/WAO 2025

In February 2025, Dr. Michelle Kwok and Dr. Ghislaine Isabwe presented at the AAAAI/WAO Joint Congress in San Diego. Their session, "Bridging the Gap: Innovative Approaches to Allergy Care in Underserved Regions," brought together healthcare professionals and researchers from around the world, including the UK, Switzerland, Canada, the USA, Hong Kong, and more. The session focused on how we can make allergy care more accessible to people in remote areas.

Dr. Kwok shared insights from Connexion Nordique's work in Northern Quebec, where they are using telemedicine and training local healthcare providers to help Indigenous communities manage allergies. Another project in development is a pollen counter to monitor allergens in the environment, which can help predict and manage allergic reactions more effectively.

In Rwanda, Dr. Isabwe discussed a similar project focused on building local capacity to address not only allergy care but also asthma, which remains underdiagnosed. Both regions face challenges such as a lack of local data and the need for better healthcare resources. These challenges are very similar, but the goal is clear: empower communities and create sustainable, long-term healthcare solutions.

As climate change worsens environmental conditions, allergies are becoming more common. Warmer temperatures, increased pollen production, and rising pollution—both indoors and outdoors—are putting rural and underserved populations at greater risk. At the seminar, one allergist shared his experience working in Nunavut, where self-funded projects are exploring ways to address these challenges, such as through pollen monitoring.

Telemedicine is playing an essential role in overcoming geographical barriers and making healthcare more accessible to remote communities. By using technology to bridge gaps, Connexion Nordique is helping communities gain access to the allergy care they need, no matter where they live.

At Connexion Nordique, we are committed to fostering partnerships based on mutual respect and shared knowledge. By empowering local healthcare providers, working together with communities, and leveraging technology, we strive to create sustainable healthcare solutions that meet the unique needs of each region. Through collaboration, we can ensure that everyone has access to the care they need, regardless of location.