Watch The Invisible Patients

The movie "The Invisible Patients" is a 2016 documentary that follows the life of Jessica MacLeod, a nurse practitioner based in northern New Brunswick. The documentary sheds light on the challenges that healthcare workers in rural and remote areas of Canada face when caring for patients with complex needs. The movie opens with MacLeod discussing the challenges of providing healthcare to patients living in remote areas. She talks about the difficulties of traveling long distances on unpaved roads, dealing with language barriers, and not having access to specialized equipment and treatment facilities. Despite these challenges, MacLeod remains committed to providing her patients with the best care possible.

Throughout the movie, we meet several of MacLeod's patients who are living with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and mental health issues. We hear their personal stories of the difficulties they face in accessing healthcare, and the impact it has on their lives. Many of them live alone and face social isolation, making it difficult for them to manage their conditions.

The documentary also highlights the high rates of poverty and unemployment in northern New Brunswick, which puts additional stress on the healthcare system. MacLeod worries that the lack of access to basic needs, such as healthy food and safe housing, will only exacerbate the health problems of her patients.

The movie shows how MacLeod uses a patient-centered approach in her practice, treating each patient with compassion and understanding. Despite the limitations of rural healthcare, she strives to provide her patients with a sense of dignity and respect. She encourages them to take an active role in their care and works with them to develop personalized treatment plans.

In one particularly moving scene, MacLeod visits a patient who is nearing the end of her life. The patient is surrounded by her family, and MacLeod comforts them while also providing medical care. The scene highlights the important role that healthcare workers play in supporting patients and their families during difficult times.

"The Invisible Patients" is a powerful documentary that provides a glimpse into the challenges of providing healthcare in rural and remote areas of Canada. It serves as a reminder of the importance of healthcare access and the dedicated healthcare workers who provide care to those who need it most. Despite the challenges faced by MacLeod and her patients, the movie ends on a hopeful note. MacLeod remains committed to her work, and her patients express gratitude for the care and support she provides.

Overall, "The Invisible Patients" is a thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on an issue that often goes unnoticed. It is a must-see for anyone interested in healthcare access and the challenges faced by healthcare workers in rural and remote areas.

The Invisible Patients is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes.