WONCA News November 2023

VOL 49 | NUMBER 9

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WONCA PRESIDENT ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR KAREN FLEGG (AUSTRALIA) EMAIL: PRESIDENT@WONCA.NET

FROM THE PRESIDENT

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WONCA 50TH ANNIVERSARY

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WONCA COLLABORATIVE FUND

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WONCA COUNCIL OUTCOMES

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PRESIDENT-ELECT DR VIVIANA MARTINEZ BIANCHI (US/ARGENTINA) WONCA IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT & WHO LIAISON DR ANNA STAVDAL (NORWAY) EXECUTIVE MEMBER AT LARGE & HONORARY TREASURER DR STEVE MOWLE (UK) EXECUTIVE MEMBER AT LARGE ADJ PROFESSOR KAREN PRICE (AUSTRALIA) EXECUTIVE MEMBER AT LARGE DR MARÍA PILAR ASTIER PEÑA (SPAIN) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA AFRICA DR JANE FRANCES NAMATOVU (UGANDA) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA ASIA PACIFIC DR. BRIAN CHANG (TAIWAN) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA EAST MEDITERRANEAN DR ABDULAZIZ MAHMOOD NASSER AL-MAHREZI (OMAN) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA EUROPE PROF SHLOMO VINKER (ISRAEL) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA IBEROAMERICANACIMF DR DORA PATRICIA BERNAL OCAMPO (COLOMBIA) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA NORTH AMERICA DR VICTOR K NG (CANADA) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA SOUTH ASIA DR KANAPATHIPILLAI SRI RANJAN (SRI LANKA) YOUNG DOCTORS' REPRESENTATIVE DR CHAN YUEN CHING CHERYL (HONG KONG) WONCA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER DR HARRIS LYGIDAKIS WONCA WORLD SECRETARIAT WORLD ORGANIZATION OF FAMILY DOCTORS AVENUE DES ARTS 7-8 1210 BRUSSELS BELGIUM EMAIL: SECRETARIAT@WONCA.NET PHONE: +32 (0) 2 329 00 75 WONCA EDITOR MARIA DOLORES ZAVALA EMAIL: EDITOR@WONCA.NET

A/ PROF KAREN FLEGG, NEW WONCA PRESIDENT 2023 - 2025 DR VIVIANA MARTINEZ-BIANCHI, NEW PRESIDENT-ELECT NEW EXECUTIVE, COMMITTEES AND CHAIRS OF WPS & SIGS 2023-2025

WONCA STATEMENT ON NCDS AND PRIMARY HEALTH CARE TO WHO

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DR ANNA STAVDAL'S FAREWELL AT WONCA 2023

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WONCA AWARDS CEREMONY 2023

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WONCA SYDNEY HOC CHAIR: NOVEMBER 2023

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WONCA WORLD CONFERENCE 2023: A GRATEFUL FAREWELL

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WONCA CONFERENCES

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WFDD 2024

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FEATURED STORIES

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WORLD’S GP BODIES CALL ON INTERNATIONAL LEADERS URGENT ACTION ON CLIMATE EMERGENCY EDITORS PRESENT "FAMILY MEDICINE IN THE UNDERGRADUATE CURRICULUM" AT WONCA SYDNEY 2023 EVERY DOCTOR: HEALTHIER DOCTORS = HEALTHIER PATIENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS & UPDATES

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

WONCA NEWS

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S Y D N E Y C E L E B R A T I O N S , B U T W H E R E T O N O W ?

A / P R O F K A R E N F L E G G

I thank you for the honour of being your new WONCA World president.

WONCA PRESIDENT

I received my chain of office from Dr Anna Stavdal on October 28. What an unusual privilege to become the WONCA president in the city in which I was born and raised.

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My first job was to thank Dr Anna Stavdal on behalf of all WONCA members, for the way in which she has conducted her presidency of WONCA. She has served with courage and dedication, has taken on tough jobs. She has supported our Secretariat through an ongoing transition and uncertain times. I am grateful that she has worked on two things that are dear to my heart and which I will progress further – strategic planning and strengthening governance.

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Photo: Karen Flegg receiving chain of office from Anna Stavdal

Retiring presidents are presented with WONCA Honorary Life Direct Membership for service to WONCA and family medicine around the world. In addition, this year our wonderful secretariat team created a photographic memory book for Anna.

It was great fun to be able to surprise Anna with an additional surprise gift.

There was a tradition in WONCA many years ago, thanks to HRH Prince Philip the Duke of Edinburgh. He misunderstood the name of WONCA and thought it was “wombat”- an Australian marsupial. Reference interview with Past president Dr David Game.

Since then, outgoing presidents of WONCA have been presented with some sort of WONCA souvenir that resembled a wombat.

Eminent Australian cartoonist, Dr Craig Hilton also known as “Jenner”, created a very Australian wombat cartoon, for presentation to Anna Stavdal. Thanks to Karen Price for facilitating this and we hope this may be a memorable token for Anna on completion of her presidency.

Photo: Anna Stavdal receives the WONCA Honorary Life Direct Membership from new President Karen Flegg

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GOVERNANCE , GREENING, GROWTH These three words sum up what I would like to achieve in the coming two years.

Governance. To have strong internal governance and processes is a must to be accountable to members. Governance includes processes for regions and Working Parties and Special Interest groups.

Governance includes moving forward with our new strategic plan.

I want to always remember equity and inclusivity; regardless of gender language, region; and to continue to develop our Young Doctors’ Movement – giving us our leaders of the future.

Greening. I want WONCA to be recognised as a “green” leader.

We have a very strong Working Party on Planetary Health. They are outward looking, developing statements and for example, leading our current initiative to secure a just and equitable transition to sustainable energy and safeguard health from the climate emergency. To date we have 40 organisations’ signatures representing three million people. I encourage you all to go to this link and sign the petition as individuals.

Also, the Working Party On Planetary Health responded to my call for internal strategies by developing sustainable conference guidelines, which we will now be able to use at all WONCA conferences.

I intend to look at the carbon footprint of the internal workings of WONCA. Our Secretariat office in Brussels is already a Green leader.

Our next WONCA executive needs to follow greener processes – we need to consider who should attend when we are invited to conferences and meetings and in considering pay attention to the carbon footprint. It is particularly important that I consider the carbon footprint which is always large from Australia.

Growth. In our external world, I would love WONCA to be the ‘go to’ organization for the WHO and other International medicopolitical organizations to seek input on Primary Care policy. To do this we must work on a political level to change health systems and to support our member organizations to locally enhance the role and recognition of Family Medicine and Family Doctors.

We must maintain and build on our relationships with the WHO and other collaborative PHC organisations to expand our global influence.

The time is right for WONCA to lead on the environment.

Photo: new President Karen Flegg and members of the Working Party on Planetary Health dressed in green and facing the press in Sydney

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It is important to support research in Primary Care to promote our value to health systems.

And Work to achieve high quality postgraduate training in family medicine and Continuing Professional Development in all countries In the words of our first WONCA president, another Australian, Dr Monty Kent Hughes, speaking to the first WONCA meeting in 1972: “the future of our professional discipline will depend on our ability to work together in the service of humanity.”

Photo: Monty Kent-Hughes

WONCA NEWS

Over the next two years, I look forward to working together constructively with new friends and old, those in who were able to be in Sydney and those who were there in their thoughts.

See full inauguration speech ENG ESP Until next month,

Coming on the WONCA Executive journey with me for the next two years are your new leaders.

Anna Stavdal - Past President Vivana Martinez Bianchi - President Elect Steve Mowle - Member at Large and Honorary Treasurer María Pilar Astier Peña - Member at Large Karen Price - Member at Large Jane Namatovu - Regional President, WONCA Africa Brian Chang - Regional President, WONCA Asia Pacific Abdelaziz Al-Mahrezi Regional President, WONCA East Mediterranean Shlomo Vinker - Regional President, WONCA Europe Dora Bernal - Regional President, WONCA Iberoamericana - CIMF Victor Ng - Regional President, WONCA North America Kanapathipillai Sri Ranjan - Regional President, WONCA South Asia Chan Yuen Ching (Cheryl) - YDM Representative Harris Lygidakis – CEO

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WONCA President

Photo: the WONCA Executive 2023-2025

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CELEBRATE OUR FIFTY YEARS BY HELPING US ON THE CRITICAL MISSION At WONCA, we’re not just a community of over half a million family doctors worldwide; we’re a movement. We’re committed to the belief that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, and we see primary care and family medicine as the pathway to making that belief a reality.

As we mark our 50th Anniversary, we invite you to be part of our ongoing mission to enhance the quality of life worldwide.

We’re thrilled to present an unparalleled opportunity for our most devoted supporters.

A magnanimous donation of 500 USD or more not only sets you apart as one of our most committed advocates but also earns you one of just 50 limited-edition collectable pins. These exclusive pins serve as more than mere keepsakes; they stand as enduring symbols of your dedication to fostering a healthier, more equitable world.

LIMITED TO JUST 50 PINS, ACT SWIFTLY TO SECURE YOUR EXCLUSIVE PIN – IT'S A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED OPPORTUNITY!

WHY DOES YOUR SUPPORT MATTER? Your donation isn’t just a contribution to WONCA; it’s an investment in global healthcare.

1. We promote knowledge exchange among family doctors and primary healthcare professionals worldwide through our community groups, newsletters, and educational and dissemination activities.

2. We support countries to build capacities and improve the quality of primary healthcare services through accreditation programs, partnerships with academic institutions, and expertise matching.

3. We advocate for stronger family medicine, primary healthcare and global health equity through partnerships and policy influence at the World Health Organization (WHO).

WONCA is their voice!

A sincere thank you to Esther Johnston, Jeff Markuns, Kim Yu, Steve Mowle, Johann Agust Sigurdsson, and Garth Manning for your kind support. Your contributions have made our 50th Anniversary celebration truly special, and we deeply appreciate your generosity.

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DONATE NOW!

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DISCOVER AND SUPPORT THE TWO SELECTED PROJECTS

As announced on our previous edition, WONCA has launched the Collaborative Fund, a groundbreaking initiative in family medicine that harnesses the power of crowdfunding to drive global innovation and collaboration.

The fund acts as both a financial resource and strategic tool, providing crucial seed funding for small projects in the ideation phase. Simultaneously, it fosters innovation and collaboration among Working Parties and Special Interest Groups, democratizing the funding process.

The WONCA Collaborative Fund is not just a financial initiative but a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and community building. It offers a unique platform for projects to grow from ideation to implementation, and potentially scale up to make a lasting impact.

READ MORE ABOUT THE COLLABORATIVE FUND

NOW IS THE MOMENT FOR YOU TO DISCOVER THE TWO SELECTED PROJECTS OUT OF THE 11 PROPOSALS THAT WERE SUBMITTED

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EMPOWERING GPS TO COMBAT FAMILY VIOLENCE

THE FAMILY VIOLENCE PROJECT A collaborative effort by: Special Interest Group on Family Violence WONCA Working Party on Women and Family Medicine Young Doctors' Movements TWe are proud to present The FaV Project, a vital initiative under our Collaborative Fund aimed at tackling the shadow pandemic of Family Violence and Intimate Partner Violence.

In the wake of COVID-19, the surge in violence against women has called for urgent action. WONCA’s response? A comprehensive E-Learning Program for Family Doctors worldwide.

The FaV Project, part of the WONCA Collaborative Fund, is designed to address this urgent issue through: A comprehensive E-Learning Program on the WONCA platform.

Training modules and webinars for effective learning and peer interaction.

Assessments to gauge improvements in family doctors’ approach to Intimate Partner Violence.

Your support can directly contribute to the empowerment of healthcare professionals in this critical area, aligning with WHO recommendations and bolstering global efforts to curb violence against women.

By donating to The FaV Project, you’re investing in the betterment of healthcare responses to Intimate Partner Violence globally, especially in low and middleincome countries and among young doctors.

Join us in this endeavor. Support The FaV Project and be a part of the change. Donate here and help us turn this vision into reality.

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ELEVATING PRIMARY CARE:

DIGITAL HEALTH TRAINING FOR GPS AND FAMILY DOCTORS A collaborative effort by: WONCA Working Party on eHealth Working Party on Research Special Interest Group on Policy Advocacy TWe are also excited to unveil our latest initiative: Digital Health Training in General Practice/Family Medicine. This project is a concerted effort by WONCA’s Working Party on eHealth, Working Party on Research, and Special Interest Group on Policy Advocacy.

As primary care faces increasing demands, the integration of digital health technologies is no longer optional but essential. Our project seeks to assess and enhance the digital health literacy of Family Doctors globally.

Through a comprehensive mixed-methods approach, including surveys, consensusbuilding, and focus groups, we aim to: Evaluate current digital health literacy among Family Doctors.

Map existing training programs.

Identify critical training needs.

Provide actionable recommendations for curriculum integration.

The digital revolution in healthcare is here, and with your support, we can ensure that Family Doctors are fully equipped to navigate this new landscape with confidence and competence.

By contributing to this project, you’re not just supporting education; you’re fostering a digitally-empowered healthcare system that benefits practitioners and patients alike.

Join us in shaping the future of primary care.

Support the Digital Health Training project and help us build a more resilient, efficient, and innovative healthcare delivery system.

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A/ PROF KAREN FLEGG, NEW WONCA PRESIDENT 2023 - 2025 Sydney, Australia, 27/10/2023 — We are proud to announce the appointment of Associate Professor Karen Flegg as our new President, marking a remarkable moment during the 2023 WONCA World Conference held in Sydney, Australia.

On the third day of the conference, attendees witnessed the transition of leadership as Dr Anna Stavdal, the immediate Past President, passed the torch to A/ Prof Karen Flegg. This event unfolded during the prestigious WONCA Awards Ceremony, where President Karen Flegg was formally inducted and received the symbolic WONCA commemorative presidents chain.

After the Acknowledgment of Country, President Flegg expressed her gratitude to Past President Dr Anna Stavdal by presenting her with an Honorary Life Direct Membership and a special gift— a wombat, an Australian symbol representing the continuity of leadership in WONCA.

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O U T C O M E S During her inaugural address, President Karen Flegg recognised her Australian predecessors: Dr Monty Kent-Hughes (1972 – 1974), Dr David Game (1983 – 1986), and Prof.

Michael Kidd (2013 – 2016), and briefly recounted WONCA's remarkable journey over the past 50 years since its inception with 18 countries in Melbourne in 1972.

President Flegg outlined the key priorities for her tenure, and her three fundamental pillars: Governance, Greening, and Growth.

She emphasized the importance of robust internal governance and processes to ensure accountability to members, including streamlining regional procedures and fostering engagement with Working Parties and Special Interest Groups. Furthermore, she stressed the significance of equity and inclusivity, irrespective of factors such as gender, language, or region. President Flegg also pledged to continue developing the young doctors' movement, recognising them as the leaders of the future.

The new President made a commitment to position WONCA as a global leader in environmental sustainability. Her vision encompasses a "green" office, eco-friendly conference guidelines, and a significant reduction in the organization's carbon footprint, with a particular focus on minimizing travel-related emissions.

WONCA NEWS President Karen Flegg also underlined WONCA's aspiration to become the "go-to" organization for the World Health Organization (WHO) and other international medico-political bodies seeking input on primary care policy. To achieve this, WONCA will work at a political level to influence health systems, support member organizations in enhancing the role and recognition of Family Medicine and Family Doctors at the local level, and strengthen collaborations with WHO and other primary healthcare organizations to expand global influence.

The President's commitment extends to supporting research in Primary Care to demonstrate its value to health systems and working towards high-quality postgraduate training in family medicine and Continuing Professional Development in all countries.

President Flegg concluded the ceremony by introducing the members of the WONCA Executive Committee 2023 – 2025, a dedicated team that will work collaboratively to turn her vision into reality. The committee members include: We anticipate an exciting era under President Karen Flegg's leadership, as we continue to champion the cause of Family Medicine and Primary Care on a global scale.

Welcome, WONCA President Karen Flegg

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OUTCOMES OF THE WONCA WORLD COUNCIL MEETING 2023

DR VIVIANA MARTINEZBIANCHI, NEW PRESIDENTELECT

The WONCA World Council Meeting 2023, held from Sunday, October 22nd to Tuesday, October 24th, in Sydney, Australia, played a pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of our organization. Delegates from our seven regions undertook the responsibility of voting on critical resolutions that will chart our course in the coming years. The gathering played a decisive role in determining the leadership structure, including the new President-elect, executive members at large, and the host city for the 2027 WONCA World Conference.

We are delighted to announce the election of Dr Viviana Martinez-Bianchi (US) as the newly appointed President-elect. Additionally, we extend heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected members at large for the WONCA Executive Committee: Maria Pilar Astier Peña (Spain), Karen Price (Australia), and Steve Mowle (UK). Their dedication and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success and growth of our organization.

Dr Viviana Martinez-Bianchi, new President-elect

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Looking ahead, we are also excited to reveal that the WONCA World Conference in 2027 will take place in the vibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa.

The active participation and engagement of delegates and observers from 108 countries and territories, whether physically present or joining virtually, played a pivotal role in the success of this event. We extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to the robust discussions and impactful decisions. The accomplishments of this meeting underscore our collective dedication and offer a comprehensive view of the promising path that lies ahead for WONCA. WONCA Immediate Past President, Anna Stavdal; Past Presidents Chris van Weel, Donald Li, Amanda Howe , former CEO Garth Manning and WONCA CEO, Harris Lygidakis

WONCA New President - Elect, Viviana Martinez-Bianchi.

Members at Large: Maria Pilar Astier Peña, Karen Price and Steve Mowle

WONCA Meeting of the Council 2023

WONCA World Conference in 2027 winning bid, Cape Town, South Africa.

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OUTCOMES OF THE WONCA WORLD COUNCIL MEETING 2023

NEW EXECUTIVE, COMMITTEES AND CHAIRS OF WPS & SIGS 2023-2025

WONCA Executive 2023 - 2025

The recent WONCA World Council Meeting marks a transformative moment in WONCA's history, with changes in both membership and leadership across its various committees. Take a closer look at the newly appointed members of the revitalized Executive team, delve into the restructured Statutory Committees, and acquaint yourself with the Chairs of Working Parties (WPs) and Special Interest Groups (SIGs).

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE • WONCA President A/Prof Karen Flegg (Australia) • WONCA President Elect – Dr Viviana Martinez Bianchi (US/Argentina) • WONCA Immediate Past President & WHO liaison – Dr Anna Stavdal (Norway) • Executive Member-at-Large & Honorary Treasurer – Dr Steve Mowle (UK) • Executive Member-at-Large – Adj Professor Karen Price (Australia) • Executive Member-at-Large – Prof María Pilar Astier Peña (Spain)

• Regional President WONCA Africa – Dr Namatovu Jane Frances (Uganda) • Regional President WONCA Asia Pacific – Dr Brian Chang (Taiwan) • Regional President WONCA East Mediterranean – Dr Abdulaziz Mahmood Nasser Al-Mahrezi (Oman) • Regional President WONCA Europe – Prof Shlomo Vinker (Israel) • Regional President WONCA IberoamericanaCIMF – Dr Dora Patricia Bernal Ocampo (Colombia) • Regional President WONCA North America – Dr Victor K Ng (Canada) • Regional President WONCA South Asia – Dr K Sri Ranjan (Sri Lanka) • Young Doctor Representative – Dr Chan Yuen Ching Cheryl (Hong Kong)

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STATUTORY COMMITTEES NOMINATING AND AWARDS COMMITTEE

ORGANIZATIONAL EQUITY COMMITTEE

Chair: Viviana Martinez Bianchi (US/Argentina)

Chair: Namatovu Jane Frances (Uganda) Members:

Members: • Michael Kidd (Australia) • Brando Cantu (Mexico) • Jacqueline Ponzo (Uruguay) • Dan Abubakar (Nigeria) • Maria Pilar Astier Peña (Spain) FINANCE COMMITTEE Chair: Steve Mowle (United Kingdom) Members: • Joy Mugambi (Kenya) • Sankha Randenikumara (Sri Lanka) • Donald Li (Hong Kong) • Francine Lemire (Canada) • Job Metsemakers (The Netherlands) • Besigye Innocent (Uganda) • Tesshu Kussaba (Japan) • Mona Osman (Lebanon) • Zalika Klemenc Ketiš (Slovenia) • Marina Almenas (Puerto Rico) • Victor Ng (Canada) • Bikash Gauchan (Nepal)

• Elizabeth Reji (South Africa) • Suha Hamshari (Palestinian Territory) • Marjorie Cross (Australia) • Enrique Falceto de Barros (Brazil) • Hina Jawaid (Pakistan) • Jeff Markuns (USA) • Stuart Holmes (United Kingdom) BYLAWS AND REGULATIONS COMMITTEE Chair: Karen Price (Australia) Members: • Henry Lawson (Ghana) • Roar Maagaard (Denmark) • Nick Mamo (United Kingdom) • Jeff Markuns (USA) • Marie Andrades (Pakistan)

MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Chair: Victor Ng (Canada) Members: • Marvin Reid (Jamaica) • Reina Alameddine (Lebanon) • Nagwa Nashat Hegazy (Egypt) • Tze Lee Tan (Singapore) • Dora Bernal (Colombia)

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WORKING PARTY CHAIRS • WP on Education - Victor Ng • WP on Planetary Health - Özden Gökdemir • WP on Ethics and Professionalism - Tania Moerenhout • WP on eHealth - Ana Luisa Neves • WP on Mental Health - Christos Lionis • WP on Quality and Safety in Family Medicine - José María Valderas Martinez • WP on Research - Mehmet Akman • WP on Rural Practice - Bruce Chater • WONCA International Classification Committee - Gustavo Gusso • WP on Women and Family Medicine Elizabeth Reji

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS CHAIRS • SIG on Adolescent and Young Adult Care Muna Chowdhury • SIG on Ageing and Health - Leon Geffen • SIG on Cancer and Palliative Care - Atreya Shrikant • SIG on Complexities in Health - Joachim Sturmberg • SIG on Emergency Medicine - Elena Klusova • SIG on Emerging Practice Models for Family Medicine - Jingwen Gu • SIG on Family Violence - Raquel Gomez Bravo / Sajaratulnisah Othman • SIG on Genetics - TBC • SIG on Global Point of Care Testing - Jan Verbakel • SIG on Indigenous & Minority Group Health Issues - TBC • SIG on Integrative Medicine - Sonia Tsukagoshi • SIG on Health Equity - TBC • SIG on LGBTQ Health - Filiz Ak • SIG on Migrant Care, Int Health, and Travel Medicine - Rebecca Farrington • SIG on Non-Communicable Diseases - Ana Cebrian • SIG on Quaternary Prevention and Overmedicalization - TBC • SIG on Worker’s Health - Carolina Jara Pinochet • SIG on Policy Advocacy - Sankha Randenikumara / Amanda Howe

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OUTCOMES OF THE WONCA WORLD COUNCIL MEETING 2023

WONCA STATEMENT ON NCDS AND PRIMARY HEALTH CARE TO WHO WONCA launched a NCD statement during the 2023 World Council Meeting in Sydney, Australia, with former Member at large and WHO Liaison, Prof Val Vass, presenting the statement on the second day of activities.

The statement not only emphasises the critical role of Primary Health Care (PHC) Teams in addressing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), but also stresses early detection and addresses risk factors, aligning with WONCA's commitment to reduce premature NCD deaths per the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal.

WONCA STATEMENT ON NON COMMUNICABLE DISEASES (NCDS) AND PRIMARY HEALTH CARE (PHC) TO WHO Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs)— primarily heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases— cause nearly three-quarters of deaths in the world.

Their drivers are social, environmental, commercial and genetic, and their presence is global. Every year 17 million people under the age of 70 die of NCDs, and 86% of them live in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Many of these early deaths are evitable. Critical is early detection and management of NCDs, e.g. Half of all people with hypertension do not know it. Addressing major risk factors that can lead to them— tobacco use, unhealthy diet, harmful use of alcohol, physical inactivity and air pollution —could prevent or delay significant ill health and a large number of deaths from many NCDs. All these conditions can be detected and, in most cases, managed at primary care level. In addition, since multimorbidity increases a generalist primary care holistic approach is crucial to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target on reducing premature NCD deaths by a third.

Primary Health Care (PHC) Teams provide the necessary technical expertise through community based, patient-centred, multiprofessional, coordinated and continuous preventative care. This can reduce mortality, disability and health inequity at a lower per capita cost than other health care systems.1 Continuity of care with a Family Medicine doctor reduces hospitalisations, emergency departments visits, and treatment duplications.2 Multi professional PHC teams enable equity of access to preventative care and offer holistic person centred delivery to address the complex co-morbidities intrinsic to NCD management. Emerging evidence from LMICs confirms that, for meeting local needs, clearly defined delivery frameworks for achievable interventions, accompanied by appropriate resourcing, are essential.3,4,5 Adapting to local contexts requires the strong leadership and expertise which Family Doctors are trained to provide through:

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(i) Proactivity (prevention and promotion) by: • Developing strong partnerships with citizens and patients to empower the selfcare and health literacy needed for successful health promotion and disease prevention.

• Addessing local social determinants of health to prevent NCD development .

• Incorporating social prescribing into service delivery so that patients are referred to range of local, non-clinical services to support their health and wellbeing. (ii) Reactivity (Patient management) by: • Managing complex patients multimorbidity and assessing risk.

• Coordinating the care provided by multi professional PHC teams.

• Personalising multiple disease guidelines to safely address the individual needs of NCD patients.

• Overseeing the responsibilities in PHC teams to ensure the most cost-efficient NCDs health care.

• Balancing overuse of tests and treatments to make shared medical decisions with patients.

• Adapting post pandemic to improve the quality and safety of telehealth services for patients.

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WONCA is committed to building partnerships with WHO to provide technical expertise globally to lead NCD challenges and advocate with governments to build strong PHC models in national health systems. The 132 WONCA member organisations offer opportunities to train family doctors to lead PHC training for NCD initiatives in country. WONCA working parties and special interest groups offer expertise for research projects. Expertise which is essential to ensure we meet the 2030 SDG NCD targets and address the current inequities in NCD management worldwide.

References: 1. Starfield B, Shi L, J Contribution of Primary Care to Health Systems WONCA is committed to building partnerships with WHO to provide technical expertise globally to lead NCD challenges and advocate with governments to build strong PHC models in national health systems. The 132 WONCA member organisations offer opportunities to train family doctors to lead PHC training for NCD initiatives in country. WONCA working parties and special interest groups offer expertise for research projects. Expertise which is essential to ensure we meet the 2030 SDG NCD targets and address the current inequities in NCD management worldwide.

2. Hetlevik Ø, Holmås TH, Monstad K. Continuity of care, measurement and association with hospital admission and mortality: a registry-based longitudinal cohort study. BMJ Open. 2021 Dec 2;11(12):e051958. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051958.

3. Varghese C, Nongkynrih B, Mikkelsen B. Learning by Doing: Accelerate Towards the NCD Target in SDG Through Primary Healthcare Comment on "Universal Health Coverage for Non-communicable Diseases and Health Equity: Lessons From Australian Primary Healthcare". Int J Health Policy Manag. 2022 May 1;11(5):708-710. doi: 10.34172/ijhpm.2021.96 4. Shiroya V, Shawa N, Matanje B, Haloka J, Safary E, Nkhweliwa C, Mueller O, Phiri S, Neuhann F, Deckert A. Reorienting Primary Health Care Services for NonCommunicable Diseases: A Comparative Preparedness Assessment of Two Healthcare Networks in Malawi and Zambia. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 May 10;18(9):5044. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18095044.

5. Muratalieva E, Nendaz M, Beran D. Strategies to address non-communicable diseases in the Commonwealth of Independent States countries: a scoping review. Prim Health Care Res Dev. 2022 Nov 15;23:e73. doi: 10.1017/S1463423622000639.

6. Invisible Numbers: The True Extent of Noncommunicable Diseases and What to Do about Them. WHO, 2022. WONCA is committed to building partnerships with WHO to provide technical expertise globally to lead NCD challenges and advocate with governments to build strong PHC models in national health systems. The 132 WONCA member organisations offer opportunities to train family doctors to lead PHC training for NCD initiatives in country. WONCA working parties and special interest groups offer expertise for research projects. Expertise which is essential to ensure we meet the 2030 SDG NCD targets and address the current inequities in NCD management worldwide.

7. WHO NCD Factsheet. https://www.who.int/newsroom/fact-sheets/detail/noncommunicable-diseases

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WONCA'S NCD COMMITMENT RECOGNISED BY WHO LEADER, DR BENTE MIKKELSEN In response to WONCA's NCD statement unveiled at the 2023 World Council Meeting, Dr Bente Mikkelsen, Director of the Division of Noncommunicable Diseases at WHO, expressed immense gratitude for the collaboration. She acknowledged WONCA's crucial role in the fight against noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and emphasised the importance of addressing statistics related to Noncommunicable Diseases.

Dr Mikkelsen stressed the interconnectedness of NCDs, health care disruption during crises, and the need for universal health coverage. She commended the role of Primary Health Care (PHC) Teams, including family doctors, in delivering essential interventions, and urged continued support for healthcare workers emphasising the importance of investing in health education, competency-based training, and multidisciplinary teams.

Dr Mikkelsen highlighted the alarming global burden of NCDs, constituting 74% of all deaths, particularly affecting low and middle-income countries. She applauded WONCA's focus on primary and secondary prevention, especially targeting tobacco, alcohol, obesity, and hypertension. Dr Mikkelsen conveyed optimism that these efforts could align with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal, aiming to reduce premature mortality by 30%, underscoring the potential impact with WONCA's support.

Finally, she encouraged embracing innovative service delivery models and underscored the critical role of partnership in implementing solutions, expressing delight at WONCA's collaborative efforts and congratulating the organisation on the impactful statement launch.

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Dr Bente Mikkelsen, Director of the Division of Noncommunicable Diseases at WHO

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WONCA'S CHAPTER CLOSES

DR ANNA STAVDAL'S FAREWELL AT WONCA 2023 Dr Anna Stavdal, our now Immediate PastPresident, delivered a heartfelt farewell address during the Awards and Handover ceremony at the WONCA World Conference 2023 in Sydney, Australia.

Dr Stavdal embarked on her WONCA journey in 2016 as the President of WONCA Europe and found herself standing for the position of WONCA World President Elect two years later. Reflecting on her tenure, she described the experience as an adventurous journey marked by hard work, a steep learning curve, frustration, joy, and satisfaction.

She shared snapshots of her term offering glimpses into the challenges faced by WONCA during the global pandemic. Dr Stavdal also highlighted the impact of COVID19 on WONCA operations, including travel restrictions, financial constraints, and increased workloads for health providers.

Handover of the WONCA presidency 2021

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WONCA Executive 2021-2023 in Australia

Dr Anna Stavdal Farewell Speech

Dr Stavdal acknowledged the historic virtual constitution of the executive committee, with the first in-person meeting occurring in Oslo after eight months. She emphasized the committee's diverse representation, reflecting the rich tapestry of WONCA's membership.

Her presentation also showcased her home office in Oslo, displaying the multifaceted aspects of her role.

Throughout her presidency, Dr Anna Stavdal travelled widely, spending over 150 days representing WONCA globally. She expressed gratitude for the warm welcome received from local hosts and emphasised the importance of building relationships with stakeholders, including high-level politicians and WHO.

Dr Anna Stavdal at WHO event in Cairo, Egypt.

Dr Anna Stavdal 's Practice in Oslo, Norway

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Dr Anna Stavdal at the WONCA APR conference 2022, In Bali Indonesia

Dr Jui-Yuan Hsueh, Minister of Health and Welfare of Taiwan

WONCA Iberoamericana CIMF Summit in Guatemala

Dr Anna Stavdal, WONCA CEO Harris Lygidakis and, WHO liaison, Prof Val Wass at the WHA 76 in Geneva.

Immediate Past President Anna Stavdal and Past President, Donald Li

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The address concluded with a heartfelt thanks to WONCA members, past presidents, executive members, the WONCA Secretariat, her colleagues, and, most importantly, her family for their unwavering support. She passed the baton to the incoming WONCA President, Karen Flegg, wishing her success in leading WONCA into the future.

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WONCA Africa Region Conference in Abuja, Nigeria

Dr Stavdal's legacy includes not only her impactful initiatives but also the connections she forged with WONCA members worldwide.

As she passes the torch to new leadership, we extend our deepest gratitude for her outstanding dedication and the positive impact she has had on the global medicine community and the WONCA Family.

WONCA Handover Ceremony

WONCA Handover Ceremony

WONCA Handover Ceremony

Dr Anna Stavdal's Farewell Speech

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The 2023 WONCA Awards Ceremony was a significant event dedicated to recognizing excellence and achievements in the realm of Family Medicine. During the ceremony, on 28th of November, WONCA President Dr Anna Stavdal, and WONCA CEO, Dr Harris Lygidakis, presided over this important event, which celebrated outstanding individuals for their remarkable contributions to WONCA and Family Medicine.

Here's a brief glimpse of the awards and their deserving recipients.

GLOBAL FIVE STAR AWARD Suha Hamshari, Head of the Palestinian Association of family medicine. Doctor Nagwa Nashaat accepted the award on her behalf.

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WORLD RISING STAR AWARD Dr Anna Stavdal and Dr Sankha Randenikumara jointly awarded the World Rising Star Award to Yong Kui Choon.

WONCA FOUNDATION AWARD Dr Anna Stavdal presented the WONCA Foundation Award to Hofmeyr Haarhoff Conradie, with Bob Mash accepting it on his behalf.

ATAI'S AWARD Dr Wongani M. Kumwenda, a dedicated and passionate family medicine registrar from Malawi, has been awarded the esteemed Atai Award for 2023 by Dr Elizabeth Reji, Chair: WONCA Working Party on Women and Family Medicine (WWPWFM).

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TAIWAN FAMILY MEDICINE RESEARCH AWARD

The Taiwan Family Medicine Research Award, presented by Dr Cheng-Kuo Huang, honored four exceptional colleagues: • Pramendra Prasad • Jacqueline Javier • Daniel Mutonga • Akeem Akinbode

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BESROUR CENTRE FAMILY MEDICINE EARLY CAREER RESEARCHER AWARD

Dr Sadok Besrour, and Dr David Ponka recognized Dr Catherine Gathu and Dr Aishana as the recipients of the Besrour Centre Family Medicine Early Career Researcher Award.

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MONTEGUT SCHOLAR AWARD Dr Lauren Hughes, and Andrew Bazemore presented the Montegut Scholar Award to: • Melvina Thompson • Khaled el Khatib • Faridah Amin • Mel Acuerva • Paula Henry • Mariano Granero • Shyamalee Samaranayaka

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FELLOWSHIPS AND HONORARY LIFE DIRECT INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS

Fellows: • Mohammad Husni Jamal • Shyamalee Samaranayaka • Marie Therese Andrades • Basharat Ali • Alan Abelsohn • Enrique Barros

Dr Anna Stavdal and WONCA CEO, Harris Lygidakis awarded Fellowships and Honorary Life Direct Individual Members to several distinguished colleagues:

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FELLOWSHIPS AND HONORARY LIFE DIRECT INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS

Fellows: • Donald Li • Val Wass • Shabir Moosa • Jacqueline Ponzo • Marvin Reid • Raman Kumar

Dr Anna Stavdal and WONCA CEO, Harris Lygidakis awarded Fellowships and Honorary Life Direct Individual Members to several distinguished colleagues:

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HONORARY LIFE DIRECT INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS

Honorary Life Direct Individual Members (HLDIM):

Dr Anna Stavdal and WONCA CEO, Harris Lygidakis awarded Honorary Life Direct Individual Members to several distinguished colleagues:

• Nobutaro Ban • Ryuki Kassai • Tai-Yuan Chiu • Karen Kinder

The 2023 WONCA Awards Ceremony was a celebration of the outstanding individuals and their efforts to advance Family Medicine, showcasing the commitment and excellence that define the global community of healthcare professionals. Congratulations to all our awardees.

Congratulations!

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WONCA NEWS

Dear Family Doctors of the world and Colleagues, We recovered; we reconnected, and we revitalized our sense of selves in the world of Family Doctors at Sydney’s Darling Harbour at the World conference recently. We had a final attendance of 4438 delegates and 117 countries represented from the WONCA world.

We had a wonderful time, and our learning was deep and wide. Australian Family Doctors were so thankful for the experiences of other Family Doctors around the world which showed how we are different but also how we are the same. It was humbling to hear a session from the BESROUR research center in Canada talk about the wellbeing of doctors for one of the workshop participants to talk about 300 patients in an afternoon of consulting in their context of practice. Many participants attended health systems sessions to find ways forward for high functioning primary care systems.

Photo: WONCA 2023 Opening Ceremony

Our keynote speakers were inspiring with Professor Trish Greenhalgh on the concept of suffering and transcendence; Dr Anna Stavdal on the developing of core values of family practice; Professor Sandra Eades on the lack of health equity for indigenous Australians and finally on equity day to a brilliant panel with WONCA President elect Dr Viviana Martinez-Bianchi, Dr David TipeneLeach from New Zealand and Australian indigenous man, Professor Brad Murphy who brought the auditorium of 4000+ delegates to tears and a standing ovation.

Photo :Besrour research on Joy in Work

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On Green day we asked delegates to wear green to highlight the need to advocate for the connection between health and climate.

Dr Maria Neira from the WHO and Professor Enrique Falceto de Barros described the impact of climate on health outcomes. This was followed by a media conference where Family Doctors amassed a striking sea of green for local, national and international media in the lead up to COP28. What a collaboration! On Sunday we had Professor Michael Kidd describe the unrelenting hardship of public health leading through Covid and we finished this remarkable conference with Dr Iona Health reminding us of the amassed literature on the evidence for investment into Primary care systems for the health of all.

Photo : Green Day, WONCA and the Australian Press Conference

Presidential handover Dr Anna Stavdal to Associate Professor Karen Flegg

Photo: New Members at Large

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Photo: Dr Trish Greenhalgh

Photo: Professors Michael Kidd, Sally Hall Dykgraaf, and Jane Desborough

Photo: Professor Brad Murphy

Photo:Dr Iona Heath

Our gala ball was a big hit with the Cheeky Docs band, and I had a great dance off with the excellent dancing of the Family Doctor leaders of Hong Kong and Taiwan. WONCA’s new President Associate Professor Karen Flegg, gave the gala dinner guests a short demonstration of iconic Australian slang.

Photo: Gala Ball Assoc Professor Flegg

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I met many of you and smiled at many more.

My conference opening referenced the objective of sparkling eyes, hearts, minds and souls and I do hope that for many of you that objective was achieved. Until we meet again, the next world conference in Lisbon and all the regional conferences in between we must sparkle on.Congratulations to every family Doctor for such an outstandingly generous event for knowledge sharing and for affirming the international message of collegiality and good health for all.

Photo: At the Singapore College Event

Photo: From Dubai colleagues

Photo: Dr Jim Innocent Ngoga at Gala Ball Photo: Ibero Americana and Professor Vivianna Martinez-Bianchi PresidentElect

Photo: Professors Chris Hogan, John Murtagh and Karen Price

Photo: Dr Wes Fabb and Marion Fabb

We got to celebrate some legends and welcome new legendary Family Doctors on their journey to great community care. It was inspiring for all. Safe travels until we meet again. Thank you for sharing our amazing profession.

A D J .

P R O F E S S O R K A R E N P R I C E

Chair of the HOC WONCA Sydney Immediate past president RACGP

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Thankyou,

WONCA WORLD CONFERENCE 2023: A GRATEFUL FAREWELL

During this remarkable gathering, a total of 4,434 delegates filled the halls of Sydney's International Convention Centre, actively engaging in enlightening discussions led by some of the world's leading experts in their respective fields.

We are delighted to share our gratitude and appreciation for the remarkable achievement of the WONCA World Conference 2023, which took place in Sydney, Australia. This significant event brought together healthcare professionals and leaders from around the world to explore innovative strategies for advancing global healthcare.

The conference, hosted at the International Convention Centre Sydney from October 26th to 29th, served as an exceptional platform for the exchange of knowledge, networking, and collaborative efforts, all centered around the theme "Recovery, reconnection, and revival - a celebration of Primary Care."

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WONCA NEWS We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) for their exceptional role as hosts.

President Nicole Higgins, the Honorary Organizing Committee (HOC) Chair, and WONCA Member at Large, Prof. Karen Price, and the entire RACGP team demonstrated unwavering dedication and expertise, which played a vital part in the success of the conference.

The WONCA World Conference 2023 was a proof to the strength of international collaboration and the commitment of primary healthcare professionals. We are inspired by the enthusiasm, knowledge sharing, and meaningful connections that were forged during this event.

We look forward to building on the momentum generated by the conference and continuing our mission to advance family medicine and primary care on a global scale.

Thank you to all who participated and contributed to this outstanding event. See you in our 2024 regional conferences and the WONCA World Conference 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal.

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GPS LAUD ‘ENORMITY OF WONCA’ AS CONFERENCE WRAPS UP

Author: Michelle Wisbey | NEWS GP Credit: Royal Australian College of General Practicioners Read the article HERE.

How many coffees does it take to fuel 4000 busy doctors for four days?

The answer to that all-important question is a whopping 6000 cups made with 80 kilograms of beans – and that was just the coffees brewed in the WONCA Exhibition Hall.

The 2023 World Conference has officially wrapped up for another year, bringing to an end more than 850 presentations, seven keynote addresses, and 58 topic areas covered.

A total of 4434 delegates walked the halls of Sydney’s International Convention Centre, taking in talks from the world’s leading experts in their fields.

Australian doctors were especially well represented at the 50th anniversary of the famous conference with 2857 attendees descending on Darling Harbour, while New Zealand had 112 people, followed by 109 from Japan, 88 from the Philippines, 83 from Singapore, 61 from China, and 60 from Qatar.

Some attendees even made the long journey solo, with single delegates hailing from Azerbaijan, Ethiopia, Iceland, Italy, Jamaica, Malta, Mongolia, Somalia, and Zimbabwe.

RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins told newsGP the conference had been deemed a success by delegates, attendees, and presenters alike.

‘I sat there on the opening day and took the opportunity to just look up and just see the enormity of WONCA,’ she said.

‘It’s just massive and everyone has been so positive – the vibe, the feel, has been one of joy and I think that’s really what we all needed.’

It was in the Exhibition Hall that a correlation between stall popularity and food offerings quickly emerged.

Delegates and presenters lined up for 4200 luxury chocolates, 1350 popcorn buckets, and 2000 freshly made doughnuts.

IPN Medical Centres gave away 800 water bottles and 800 more coffee cups, SunDoctors handed out 507 lip balms, and 700 pens were pocketed from Torrens Health.

Meanwhile, reception staff could barely keep up with demand for RACGP tote bags.

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It was in the Exhibition Hall that a correlation between stall popularity and food offerings quickly emerged.

Delegates and presenters lined up for 4200 luxury chocolates, 1350 popcorn buckets, and 2000 freshly made doughnuts.

IPN Medical Centres gave away 800 water bottles and 800 more coffee cups, SunDoctors handed out 507 lip balms, and 700 pens were pocketed from Torrens Health.

Meanwhile, reception staff could barely keep up with demand for RACGP tote bags.

In the theatres and the conference rooms, each presentation covered a different topic, from health equality to the need for climate action and GPs’ response to COVID, finishing with an inspiring call to action.

Broad themes like continuity of care, the threat of fragmentation, and family doctors’ work being undervalued and underfunded reinforced that while clinicians each have their own unique context, many issues are shared regardless of the country of origin.

In the theatres and the conference rooms, each presentation covered a different topic, from health equality to the need for climate action and GPs’ response to COVID, finishing with an inspiring call to action.

WONCA NEWS

Dr Higgins said one of her conference takeaways was the reassurance and acknowledgement that other countries are sharing Australia’s challenges and can help in finding answers.

‘I’ve had the opportunity to talk about different solutions in different countries, but also to hear the stories of how other people work, and making those connections and networks,’ she said.

‘One thing I found is that everyone is going through the same challenges.

‘Every country’s got similar problems and we’re all facing similar issues – whether it be around valuing and funding general practice, around workforce shortages, or dealing with populations that are becoming increasingly complex.’

Across several award ceremonies, inspiring GPs were also recognised for their contribution to the profession.

Tasmanian GP Dr Christopher Hughes took home the prestigious Rose-Hunt Award for his unwavering commitment to his patients, while rural New South Wales GP Dr Richard Draper was named GP of the Year.

Broad themes like continuity of care, the threat of fragmentation, and family doctors’ work being undervalued and underfunded reinforced that while clinicians each have their own unique context, many issues are shared regardless of the country of origin.

Saturday was truly an example of shared global convergence, as delegates donned their favourite shade for Green Day. Gathering in front of the news cameras, family doctors from across the world handed over an open letter calling for governments to combat the growing and ubiquitous health impact of climate change.

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Dr Higgins said she was leaving the conference excited to put its lessons, key messages, and takeaways into practice.

‘I’ve reconnected with colleagues and friends and that’s always really energising,’ she said.

‘It makes me think, “what next? What can I do better? How can I make this happened?”

And that’s great.’

More than 50 years after its humble beginnings in Melbourne, the conference has left Australian shores once again, with the baton now passed on to Portugal, which will host the next World Conference in Lisbon in 2025.

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WONCA ASIA PACIFIC CONFERENCE 2024 SINGAPORE We are thrilled to announce that abstract submissions for the WONCA APR Conference 2024 are now open. This is your opportunity to contribute your insights, research, and expertise to the global Primary Care and/or Family Medicine community. Whether you have groundbreaking research findings or valuable clinical experiences to share, we invite you to be a part of this prestigious event.

Submissions are welcome from a wide range of topics in Primary Care and/or Family Medicine. Join us in making WONCA APR Conference 2024 a platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and advancement in the field. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this enriching experience – submit your abstract today and help shape the future of Family Medicine.

IMPORTANT DATES Call For Abstracts Opens: 25 October, 2023 Early Registration Opens: 22 January, 2024 Regular Registration Opens: 18 May, 2024 Abstract Submission Deadline: 29 February, 2024 Meeting Dates: 21 – 24 August, 2024

WELCOME MESSAGE Greetings to one and all.

On behalf of the organising committee, we are delighted to invite you to join us at the WONCA APR Conference 2024, which will be held at the Raffles City Convention Centre in Singapore from 21st to 24th August, 2024.

The Conference programme will offer both exciting educational and engaging networking opportunities amongst experts, healthcare practitioners, researchers, and peers in the field of Family Medicine. The theme for this year’s Conference is “Art & Science of Family Medicine” as we aim to focus on the myriad ways of approaching and practising Family Medicine, which will enable us to provide the best all-round care for our patients. The WONCA APR Conference 2024 will be an excellent opportunity to initiate and strengthen ongoing co-operations and knowledge in the field.

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Singapore, a dynamic city-state in Southeast Asia, is a captivating blend of modernity and tradition. Nestled at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, this global financial hub is known for its impressive skyline, multicultural society, and lush green spaces.

Singapore boasts a thriving economy, worldclass infrastructure, and a reputation for safety and cleanliness. We hope that you take time before or after the conference to take in all the unique experiences that Singapore has to offer, from the bustling sights and sounds of its city district, to the serenity and warmth of its heartlands.

We look forward to seeing you in Singapore in August 2024.

DR WONG TIEN HUA PRESIDENT COLLEGE OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS SINGAPORE

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WONCA EUROPE CONFERENCE 2024 DUBLIN We are delighted to invite you to attend the 29th WONCA Europe Conference, which will take place in Dublin, Ireland, from 25 to 28 September, 2024.

The main theme of the conference is “The Changing nature of Family Medicine Cultivating the Future". Our sub-themes address many of the continuing and emerging issues faced by general practice/family medicine daily.

So, mark your calendars for WONCA Europe Conference 2024, and stay tuned for updates on the submission and registration processes. We look forward to seeing you in Dublin next year!

of European health services is a critical element of improving the quality of care that family medicine delivers to the population of Europe. We must strive for the highest quality of safe care possible for all patients.

We have given genuine consideration to the keynote speakers ensuring a balance on many fronts – gender, age, geography, topic and discipline. Our keynote and plenary speakers will provide a variety of thoughtprovoking, entertaining and informative sessions. These will be a mix of conventional keynote speeches in addition to a panel discussion on the doctor’s voice and an experiential session from the patient perspective.

WELCOME MESSAGE WONCA Europe Conferences can influnece the Future Nurture our Future Today!

We are looking forward to greeting you in Dublin this year and appreciate this opportunity to bring you all together to share expertise, experiences and enthusiasm about general practice/family medicine.

THE CHANGING NATURE OF FAMILY MEDICINE - CULTIVATING THE FUTURE Globally, we acknowledge that healthcare is continually evolving. Family Medicine in Europe must respond to the changing sands of healthcare systems and to both the static and changing needs of patients. WONCA Europe member organisations need to address the needs of their members who as doctors operate at the frontline, as academics, in leadership roles within health services, in policy-making and influencing roles in allied organisations. Enhancing communication and working relationships within practices, within primary care and across the multiple interfaces that exist between general practice and other sections

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Our sub-themes address many of the continuing and emerging issues faced by general practice/family medicine daily. Who knew in February 2020 when we submitted our bid and included a keynote speaker on AI in healthcare that it would be so topical!

The Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP) has hosted a number of very successful international conferences in the past - let us host you so you can join your thinking and energy together with colleagues to create an inspiring conference in Dublin in 2024.

We look forward to welcoming you to Dublin!

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WONCA WP ON RURAL PRACTICE

UBUNTU 2024 UBUNTU 2024 will take place in person and virtually in Cape Town, South Africa from the 10th to 13th of September 2024 Ubuntu 2024 is a joint conference between The Network: Towards Unity for Health (TUFH) and Rural WONCA (The Working Party on Rural Practice). It’s bringing together the TUFH 2024 Annual Conference for TUFH, which is celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2024, and the 20th WONCA World Rural Health Conference!

This conference is being co-hosted by 5 partners in Cape Town, South Africa: University of the Western Cape; University of Cape Town; Stellenbosch University; Cape Peninsula University of Technology, and the Department of Health and Wellness – Western Cape Government.

This joint conference has been named Ubuntu 2024; referring to the meaning of Ubuntu “I am, because you are”.

Ubuntu 2024 will be a fully hybrid conference. We strongly recommend attending in person, but for those unable to travel, we will provide the opportunity for virtual participation.

WHY ATTEND? Ubuntu 2024 will be an international, intersectoral, and intergenerational inperson and virtual conference.

Bringing together academic organisations and global rural health providers into a single event.

Engage in our Keynote Sessions, the John MacCleod oration, TUFH Documentaries, TUFH Talks, Workshops, and Oral Presentations. Learn with each other.

Present your own work to an international audience. Submit your abstract NOW. Source potential collaborations at networking events.

Participate in our Networking Sessions on specific topics—and explore new professional relationships.

Attend practical and advocacy sessions with a strong rural focus.

Collaborate on the Ubuntu 2024 Declaration.

Explore with a FULL day Conference on the Move where you will visit and interact with local communities or health organizations (transportation and lunch included).

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Relax and network at our Opening and Closing Ceremonies and Reception, Networking Reception, and Student Gathering (drinks and canapées included).

Immerse yourself in local culture at the Cultural Dinner (transportation and dinner included).

Enjoy wellness breaks throughout the conference to keep you active and energized with lovely snacks and drinks (included).

Receive a warm welcome each morning from our local partners.

Enjoy mouthwatering lunches (included).

Stay at the Waterfront where you can book accommodation and enjoy the tourist hot spot of Cape Town with plenty of tourist activities to do and see.

Transportation from the Protea Hotel to the conference venue is included.

Receive a wonderful conference bag with items from our co-hosts.

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WONCA WORLD CONFERENCE 2025 LISBON NEW VISION FOR PRIMARY HEALTH CARE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT WELCOME MESSAGE Dear Friends and Colleagues, Family Doctors working in teams with other health professionals and involving communities create a unique ecosystem to provide the right care in a sustainable and appropriate way. This goal combined with Hippocratic principles will keep us as the most advanced defence line of Medicine, facing challenge times.

In September 2025, the middle of the decade, we must reinforce the role of Family Medicine and its decisive contribution to a strong Primary Health Care. More than ever we should stand together on the compromise to sustainable development of our world.

Together with Committees, WONCA Working Parties and Special Interest Groups, we are preparing a program to celebrate our discipline. We hope that Lisbon, an ancient multicultural city, joining traditions and modernism, will encourage colleagues from around the world to meet each other personally in our exceptional event.

See you in Lisbon!

João Sequeira Carlos Scientific Committee WONCA World Conference 2025

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WORLD FAMILY DOCTOR DAY A Campaign Created by

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WORLD’S GP BODIES CALL ON INTERNATIONAL LEADERS

URGENT ACTION ON CLIMATE EMERGENCY

GPs call urgent action on climate emergency

The world’s leading GP and health bodies representing three million health professionals worldwide are urging international leaders to safeguard the health of global populations from the climate crisis in an open letter, launched on day three of the WONCA World Conference in Sydney.

WONCA 2023, from 26 to 29 October, hosted by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), brought one of the largest global conferences for GPs to Australia for the first time in over 20 years.

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On day three of the conference, Green Day, focused on the environment and sustainability, with keynote presentations by Prof Enrique Falceto One minute for the planet and Dr Maria Neira, The Health Argument for Climate Action.

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Representatives of the world’s GP and family doctor organisations launched an open letter, which has 39 signatories, including the RACGP, Australia’s largest representative group for GPs. The letter urges governments to adopt the following measures as urgent health interventions: • end expansion of any new fossil fuel infrastructure and production • phase out existing production and use of fossil fuels • remove fossil fuel subsidies and invest in renewable energy • fast track a just transition away from fossil fuel energy systems Professor Enrique Falceto de Barros, a rural Brazilian GP and climate advocate, said: “WONCA recognises the climate emergency.

Many doctors want to talk to their patients about it, but do not feel prepared.

“In 2023, most of the states in Brazil experienced a historic heatwave in winter.

While in southern states we had one of the most intense floods ever. So, Brazil has definitely entered the age of climate emergency.”

WONCA President Karen Flegg, Prof Enrique Falceto and Dr Maria Neira

Professor Enrique Falceto de Barros, a rural Brazilian GP and climate advocate

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Dr Maria Neira, World Health Organization Director for the Department of Environmental, Climate Change and Health

Dr Maria Neira, World Health Organization Director for the Department of Environmental, Climate Change and Health said: “Climate change has been identified as potentially the greatest health challenge of the twenty-first century.

“We are in a climate emergency and if our leaders don’t act urgently, it will be too late.

GPs worldwide are seeing the devastating impacts of the climate crisis on the patients and communities we care for every day,” she said.

“The world is warming at a faster rate than at any time in human history, due mainly to the burning of fossil fuels. Polluting energy systems cause almost 7 million premature deaths from air pollution each year. But unfortunately, the world is not yet responding to the scale of this challenge".

“More extreme bushfires, floods, droughts, and storms have catastrophic impacts on human health, including physical and mental health. Around the world, these disasters are causing a devastating loss of life, displacement of families and entire communities, and disruption of livelihoods.

“This is why, we need a strong health voice at the climate change negotiations and COP28 will host the first-ever day dedicated to Health in the history of the climate negotiations.

Health can be the ultimate motivation for more climate action, health professionals have a critical role to play.”

RACGP Specific Interests Climate and Environmental Medicine Chair Dr Catherine Pendrey said climate change is a public health emergency and GPs worldwide are seeing the impacts on communities.

RACGP Specific Interests Climate and Environmental Medicine Chair Dr Catherine Pendrey

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RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins

RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins said Australia and the world needs to be prepared for the health impacts of climate change.

“As Australia prepares for what’s predicted to be one of the worst bushfire seasons since Black Saturday, it is yet another reminder of what our new ‘normal’ looks like,” she said.

“Preventative action is crucial, and GPs have an important role to play, including in discussing and motivating patients to prepare emergency plans based on local climate threats and their own personal circumstances and health needs.

The WONCA 2023 Conference theme was “Recovery, reconnection, and revival. A celebration of primary care.” This year’s conference included more than 800 presentations and workshops from over 700 local and international presenters from around the world, and over 50 topic streams, including health reform, mental health, women’s health, climate change, rural practice, and more.

“We also need to consider the environmental impact of primary care. While general practice only accounts for 4% of the health sector’s total contribution to Australia’s total carbon emissions, there is still much to be done. I’m pleased that the RACGP is presenting today on the College’s own carbon footprint and journey towards sustainability – because we all have a role to play to safeguard our communities from the climate crisis.”

Representatives of the the RACGP, WONCA and WHO, at the open letter aunch for urgent action on climate emergency

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YOU CAN STILL SIGN THIS PETITION

WONCA WP ON PLANETARY HEALTH

A CALL FROM THE WONCA WP ON PLANETARY HEALTH We the family doctors, doctors and health professionals of the world call on world leaders to take urgent action to safeguard the health of global populations from the climate crisis.

Climate change is already having widespread impacts on human health. As frontline health workers we are increasingly responding to health emergencies triggered by the climate crisis. Yet in the face of increasing harm and suffering, new fossil fuel resources continue to be developed and greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise.

If we are to have any chance of limiting warming to 1.5°C and halting the escalation of the climate health emergency, we must end the proliferation of fossil fuels.

The World Health Organization has called for a Fossil Fuel Non Proliferation Treaty and an end to fossil fuel subsidies. We therefore join these calls, and urge all Governments to adopt the following as urgent health interventions: • End expansion of any new fossil fuel infrastructure and production.

• Phase out existing production and use of fossil fuels.

• Remove fossil fuel subsidies and invest in renewable energy.

• Fast track a just transition that addresses the needs of individuals, communities and countries to move away from fossil fuel energy systems towards more diverse, resilient and inclusive economies powered by renewable energy.

SIGN THE PETITION

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EMPOWERING MINDS, TRANSFORMING CARE: MDD MINDS UPDATE!

In a resounding success, our online training course MDD Minds 101 has taken off! Within just three weeks of its launch, we're thrilled to announce that over 200 participants have eagerly registered. The enthusiasm and commitment we're witnessing bode well for the transformative journey ahead.

Find more information on https://mddminds.org/

GLOBAL GATHERING AT WONCA WORLD CONFERENCE: MASTER FACULTY MEETING! The heart of our project, the Master Faculty, recently convened at the WONCA World Conference in Sydney, on October 26, 2023.

This dynamic meeting, which seamlessly blended in-person and virtual participation, provided a platform for deep dives into the achievements of Phase 2 and work in the design and implementation details for phase 3 Train the Trainer and phase 4 Performance in Practice.

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Phase 2 Unveiled: Online Course Steals the Spotlight!

Launched in October 2023, our online training course is proving to be the cornerstone of our project. It's not just a course; it's a catalyst, providing family doctors with essential skills and knowledge for advanced mental health care.

Phase 3 and Train-the-Trainer: A Glimpse Into the Future Looking ahead, Phase 3 promises to be a crescendo of collaborative learning. A cadre of 150 Scholars will conduct sessions in their communities, fortified by comprehensive toolkits and evaluation forms. This groundbreaking program sets sail in March 2024, with Faculty Members taking the lead in recruiting Scholars.

Phase 4 - Performance in Practice: A Global Impact Expanding our horizons, Phase 4 will span three countries and practices are set to make a global impact. A rich toolkit, fortified by instructional videos, will usher practices through a five-month journey commencing in March 2024.

SYDNEY REFLECTIONS: A GLOBAL DIALOGUE ON MENTAL HEALTH The recent WONCA World Conference in Sydney provided a powerful backdrop for a meaningful meeting of the Master Faculty. In both physical and virtual realms, participants engaged in dynamic discussions, reflecting on Phase 2's achievements and setting the stage for future breakthroughs.

As we navigate these new frontiers, the updates underscore our commitment to elevating the quality of care for major depressive disorders in primary care. Moving forward, stay tuned for more developments as we collectively shape change!

Stay tuned for more developments as we collectively shape change!

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EDITORS PRESENT "FAMILY MEDICINE IN THE UNDERGRADUATE CURRICULUM" AT WONCA SYDNEY 2023

Prof Val Wass and Victor Ng, editors of the book "Family Medicine in the Undergraduate Curriculum: Preparing Medical Students to Work in Evolving Healthcare Systems" made an appearance at our booth during the WONCA World Conference in Sydney to formally introduce their work to the global medical community.

Acknowledging the collaborative effort that went into the creation of this publication, both editors expressed gratitude to the numerous colleagues who contributed, highlighting the importance of this resource in the context of universal healthcare and sustainable development goals.

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Prof Val Wass and Victor Ng, editors of the book "Family Medicine in the Undergraduate Curriculum: Preparing Medical Students to Work in Evolving Healthcare Systems" made an appearance at our booth during the WONCA World Conference in Sydney to formally introduce their work to the global medical community.

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This guide, now available for purchase, is a first-of-its-kind manual crafted for those in global family medicine and primary care education across the globe. Featuring concise, accessible chapters with key references, the book provides an invaluable resource for educators worldwide.

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Key Highlights:.

1. Pioneering Guide: The first "how-to" guide for integrating family medicine teaching into medical school curricula.

2. Evidence-Based Approach: Offers a strong evidence-based framework for seamless integration.

3. Global Relevance: Relevant to educators across diverse contexts and geographies.

4. Comprehensive Support: Provides step-bystep guidance on essential processes.

5. WONCA Endorsement: Backed by the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA) Working Party on Education The book is edited and authored by members of the WONCA Working Party on Education, ensuring its global applicability. It equips future doctors to understand family medicine's importance, inspiring them to consider careers in the field.

Get your copy of "Family Medicine in the Undergraduate Curriculum: Preparing Medical Students to Work in Evolving Healthcare Systems" now! To make your purchase, click on this link: The book is edited and authored by members of the WONCA Working Party on Education, ensuring its global applicability. It equips future doctors to understand family medicine's importance, inspiring them to consider careers in the field.

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AUTHOR LEANNE ROWE WRITES ABOUT

EVERY DOCTOR: HEALTHIER DOCTORS = HEALTHIER PATIENTS Let’s consider a normal day in general practice. You have a heavy patient load and you make hundreds of clinical and other decisions while being frequently interrupted.

Many patients are distressed, some traumatised. You do a great job in supporting everyone including the practice staff, but as you commute home, a few thoughts are stuck in your mind. Perhaps there was a patient complaint about waiting times or you had terse words with a colleague. When you get home you plan flop in front of the TV news with a glass of wine, to try to block out the stress of the day in a futile attempt to hide your negative emotions from your family.

Clinical Professor Leanne Rowe, Australian rural general practitioner and past Chairman of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners LEANNE ROWE AUTHOR

MICHAEL KIDD AUTHOR

VIHANGI ABEYGUNAWA RDANA

You do this again the next day and the next.

And to add to these daily stressors, our health systems have been thrown into chaos and the viability of general practice is under threat in the wake of the pandemic.

AUTHOR

Clearly, this is a blue print for burnout.

The second edition of Every Doctor advocates for a transformational change in the way GPs protect their mental health, look out for their colleagues, co-create a kinder practice culture and co-lead health system reform. Offering practical strategies and real solutions based both on medical literature and the wisdom of experienced GPs, the book reimagines health care.

It’s great to see doctors of all specialties at different career stages are resonating with the timeless stories and key messages in Every Doctor. General practice is a fantastic career, but it can be fraught with inevitable challenges. We have more influence than currently realised to create happier practices and to rediscover joy in life and work. Please consider giving the book to a younger colleague, but please read it first!

Professor Michael Kidd presented “Every Doctor: Doctors=Healthier Patients”at the WONCA stand in Sydney.

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THE BESROUR CENTRE FOR GLOBAL FAMILY MEDICINE

PLANET FAMILY DOC PODCAST SERIES!

What in the world is happening with family docs? The Besrour Centre for Global Family Medicine at the College of Family Physicians of Canada is proud to be launching the Planet Family Doc podcast series! (Available in English only).

Forthcoming episodes will feature guests from Brazil, South Africa, Nepal, and Canada, and will include:

Available at https://planetfamilydoc.libsyn.com/, on Spotify, and on Apple Podcasts, Planet Family Doc will feature interviews with globally-minded primary care leaders and innovators as they share what they are excited about in the world of family medicine.

Is There Already an App For That? AI and other tech in family medicine training (November 2023)

Our first season is themed “The Class of 2024: The Future of Family Medicine.” Over the past decade, family physicians have experienced dramatic changes in the ‘what’ and ‘how’ of patient care. What new skills should our current family medicine trainees be learning? And how do we effectively teach these skills to a 2024 learner?

Planting Trees: Integrating planetary health into family medicine training (October 2023)

Our Best Teachers: Perspectives from new family medicine trainees (November 2023) More episodes will be released every other week.

For more information, check out the Family Doc Trailer or scan the QR code below.

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THE BESROUR CENTRE FOR GLOBAL FAMILY MEDICINE

FIFTH AND FINAL FM PIVOT MODULE IS OUT The FM Pivot module “How to Adapt Your Teaching in Crisis: Lessons from the pandemic” is now available! The Besrour Centre for Global Family Medicine at the College of Family Physicians of Canada™ is excited to announce the launch of our next FM Pivot learning module. We welcome you to register for free via one of the links below: Directly on the FM Pivot course page at fmpivot.ca Via WHO’s IntegratedCare4People platform— simply go online to register, complete your profile, and join our Communities of Practice where you’ll find a link to the module

Finding Great Research Questions in Pandemics and Other Crises: An introduction for family medicine researchers Chronic Disease Management during the COVD-19 Pandemic Mental Health Tools for Family Physicians in a Post-COVID World Disaster Planning for Community Family Physicians How to Adapt Your Teaching in Crisis: Lessons from the pandemic

The module learning activities are primarily asynchronous. Learners will receive a certificate upon the module completion.

Upon completing this module learners will be able to: 1. Recognize changes in medical teaching resulting from the COVID-19 crisis 2. Identify the principles of new teaching techniques 3. Identify their own facilitators and berries to adopting new technologies 4. Recognize different dimensions to describe online teaching Building on the experience and knowledge gained by our global family medicine community through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Below is complete list of FM Pivot modules.

Modules launched to date: available at fmpivot.ca

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We look forward to you joining us!

Clayton Dyck, MD, CCFP, FCFP Medical Education and Training Lead

David Ponka, MD CM, CCFP (EM), FCFP, MSc Director

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EACH: INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR COMMUNICATION IN HEALTHCARE

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON COMMUNICATION IN HEALTHCARE ICCH 2024 The conference brings together the community of healthcare researchers, teachers, practitioners and policy makers from around the globe. It provides a unique opportunity for the international and interactive exchange of ideas and outcomes of education, research and policy activities across individuals and institutions.

Participants will have the opportunity to network and share their work through a variety of diverse and exciting sessions.

ICCH 2024 is organised by EACH, in partnership with our sister organisation ACH (Academy of Communication in Healthcare).

ICCH 2024 offers:

Key Dates

High quality, diverse programme Renowned keynote speakers Highly interactive sessions Dedicated time for discussion and debate Abundant networking opportunities An extremely warm welcome to all!

Please note if you are unable to attend this event in person there will be online only tickets available.

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Submissions open mid November 2023 Submissions due by Thursday 8 February 2024 Early Bird bookings open February 2024 Notification of acceptances due in April 2024 Pre-conference courses from 9-10 September 2024 Conference 9-13 September 2024

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LSHTM 2022/23 SERIES ON PRIMARY HEALTH CARE ‘Primary Health Care: The heart of every health system’ was the title of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine’s 2022/23 Public Health & Policy online monthly seminar series which to date has welcomed leading experts as speakers and over 2000 unique viewers from across the world.

The series kicked off with a passionate panel debate discussing why Primary Health Care often struggles to find itself at the heart of every health system, despite its importance for the well-being of all communities and a necessity for the effectiveness of all health systems.

Following this, the perennial question of, ‘What is Primary (Health) Care?’ was tackled, with a whistlestop tour of the historical underpinnings of both the concepts of Primary Health Care and Primary Care. In keeping with the WHO’s 2020 Operational Framework, Primary Health Care was defined broadly as a whole-of-society approach to health aiming to ensure the highest possible level of health and wellbeing and their equitable distribution using a three-pillar approach. These three pillars were explored in the following sessions - Multisectoral Action and Policy; Empowered People and Communities; and Integrated health services including Primary Care and Public Health.

and research needs; and finally Measuring, Regulating and Improving Quality in Primary Care was discussed with its complexity and pitfalls.

The series is available to anyone to watch. If you would like to keep in touch about future PHC related events at LSHTM you can subscribe to LSHTM’s PHC Interest Group mailing list. Many thanks to all the speakers and advisory group involved in planning and delivering the series. The final panel debate will take place in the Autumn, details will be provided on the LSHTM PHC events webpage shortly.

Luisa Pettigrew Luke Allen Josephine Exley Co-Leads of LSHTM’s Primary Health Care Interest Group

Primary Care was defined as the health services required to comprehensively provide care across the continuum of health promotion, disease prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care – providing the first point of contact, coordination, and continuity of care. The latter four seminars explored what was needed to Finance Primary Care – at a national and local level; to get the Primary Care Workforce right – including the importance of family medicine and wider multidisciplinary team; to hold things together with adequate Primary Care Infrastructure – including the physical, transport, medicines, digital, evidence-base

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