This presentation highlights a Canadian first: Ontario’s Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Program (OAAASP) and how a one-time 10-minute ultrasound can save lives. The session will review evidence supporting AAA screening, outline OAAASP’s phased implementation and patient pathways. Emphasis will be placed on system collaboration and equitable access. By shifting from emergency rupture management to planned, evidence-based care – a coordinated screening program and a simple ultrasound can prevent avoidable deaths.

Learning Objectives on OAAASP
• Understand the Scale and System Design of Organized Screening in Ontario
• Explain the Purpose of OAAASP Screening and Referral Pathway in Clinical Practice
• Recognize the Role of Primary Care Providers in Large-Scale Screening Implementation

SPEAKER

Dr. Varun Kapila is the Provincial Lead for Vascular at Ontario Health, where he provides strategic leadership and clinical expertise to advance vascular care across the province. He also serves as the Associate Medical Director at CritiCall Ontario, supporting the coordination of urgent and emergent care services.

Nationally, Dr. Kapila is the Past-President of the Canadian Society of Vascular Surgery, where he contributed to strengthening clinical standards, education, and advocacy efforts for the specialty. He is also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the University of Toronto, committed to training the next generation of vascular surgeons.

Previously, Dr. Kapila served as Chief of Vascular Surgery and Site Chief of Surgery at Brampton Civic Hospital within the William Osler Health System. In these roles, he led surgical service delivery, quality improvement initiatives, and hospital-level planning to enhance patient outcomes.

Dr. Kapila is widely recognized for his leadership, clinical excellence, and dedication to advancing vascular care in Ontario and beyond.