VOL 49 | NUMBER 8
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Y E A R S
NEWS
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WONCA PRESIDENT DR ANNA STAVDAL (NORWAY) EMAIL: PRESIDENT@WONCA.NET TWITTER: @ASTAVDAL PRESIDENT-ELECT ASSOC PROF KAREN FLEGG (AUSTRALIA) EXECUTIVE MEMBER AT LARGE & HONORARY TREASURER PROF VAL WASS (UK) EXECUTIVE MEMBER AT LARGE DR MARÍA PILAR ASTIER PEÑA (SPAIN) EXECUTIVE MEMBER AT LARGE PROF SHABIR MOOSA (SOUTH AFRICA) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA AFRICA DR DAN ABUBAKAR (NIGERIA) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA ASIA PACIFIC ASSOC PROF MOHAMMAD HUSNI JAMAL (MALAYSIA) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA EAST MEDITERRANEAN PROF TAGHREED MOHAMED FARAHAT (EGYPT) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA EUROPE PROF SHLOMO VINKER (ISRAEL) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA IBEROAMERICANACIMF ADJ/PROF JACQUELINE PONZO (URUGUAY) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA NORTH AMERICA DR JEFF MARKUNS (USA) REGIONAL PRESIDENT, WONCA SOUTH ASIA DR TARIQ AZIZ (PAKISTAN)
CONTENT FROM THE PRESIDENT
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WONCA 50TH ANNIVERSARY
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WONCA COLLABORATIVE FUND
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WONCA SYDNEY HOC CHAIR: OCTOBER 2023
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WONCA CONFERENCES
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WONCA SYDNEY 2023
WFDD 2024
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WONCA ORGANIZATIONAL NEWS
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WORLD COUNCIL MEETING 2023
FEATURED STORIES WONCA HONORS DR WONGANI M. KUMWENDA WITH ATAI'S AWARD NOW AVAILABLE: FAMILY MEDICINE IN THE UNDERGRADUATE CURRICULUM WONCA AND WFPHA SIGN MOU FOR PRIMARY HEALTHCARE UNIFYING VOICES FOR GLOBAL MENTAL WELLNESS: A JOINT DECLARATION BY WFPHA, WONCA, AND WPA WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY MDD MINGDS: EMPOWERING FAMILY DOCTORS FOR BETTER MENTAL HEALTH CARE
YOUNG DOCTORS' REPRESENTATIVE DR SANKHA RANDENIKUMARA (SRI LANKA)
MESSAGE TO THE WORLD FEDERATION FOR MENTAL HEALTH ON THEIR 75TH ANNIVERSARY
WONCA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER DR HARRIS LYGIDAKIS
IN MEMORIAM
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 TRANSLATIONS DR JIE GU DR HUA YANG
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DR ABRA THOLSI FRANSCH DR OLIVER DAN SMITH
WONCA & WHO NEWS
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WHO LAUNCHES AIR POLLUTION TRAINING FOR HEALTH WORKERS INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON PRIMARY HEALTH CARE POLICY AND PRACTICE
WONCA REGIONS
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73RD WHO AFR REGIONAL COMMITTEE MEETING: GABORONE, BOTSWANA
WP & SIGS NEWS
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ANNOUNCEMENTS & UPDATES
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FROM THE PRESIDENT
WONCA NEWS
Crisis or transition of any kind reminds us of what matters most. ― Russell Ballard (1928- ) Wherever the art of Medicine is loved, there is also a love of Humanity. ― Hippocrates (460- 370 B.C.E.) One should aim not at being possible to understand, but at being impossible to misunderstand. ― Quintilian (35 B.C.E.)
These 22 months since I wrote my first Newsletter have sped by – with endless to-do lists, occasional frustrations, many action plans, with new and old working relationships, new friendships, and long road trips.
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Yet my term has also seemed to have lasted for an age. So much joy! It has brimmed over with extraordinary experiences, with ah-ha’s, and many deeply touching moments. Threaded through it all has been the humbling awareness of just what a privilege it is to lead our global network.
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It’s a worthy tradition for WONCA Presidents to write monthly Newsletters. Besides shortening the distance between the leadership and the members, they help us define and fortify our shared identity. In my 2021 Inaugural Address, I put forth a WONCA Biennial Road Map that emphasized the priorities of Building Identity, Increasing Visibility, and Exerting Influence. As I’ve reviewed my various Newsletters, I’ve been pleased to sense that they do seem to reinforce those three aims. So, it’s a touching milestone for me to be composing this, the last WONCA President’s Newsletter of my term. (I’ve taken the liberty of including extra epigraphs this time!)
MY FINAL PRESIDENT’S NEWSLETTER, MEANTIME, HAS A SPECIAL FUNCTION: TO SHARE A BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE “PRESIDENT’S REPORT” THAT I’VE SUBMITTED TO THE COUNCIL.
AMONG THE ISSUES AND AGENDA TOPICS ADDRESSED THIS TERM: · COVID 19 The pandemic hit us all personally, as individuals and as members of the communities in which we live and work, and as Family Doctors. So much illness. So many losses – patients, friends, family, and community members. A world of fear and grief that it was our job to help people cope with. The pandemic also impacted WONCA’s operations, with travel restrictions, lockdowns, financial constraints, increased health-provider workloads, etc. The process of relocating WONCA’s headquarters from Bangkok to Brussels had begun just before the outbreak of COVID 19. It was carried out – and successfully completed – against this destabilizing background.
WONCA NEWS
Not surprisingly, at the conclusion of our inperson Executive meetings in Oslo and Brussels, we could affirm that face-to-face interactions do tend to be more productive and effective than their virtual counterparts! · OUR STRATEGIC PLAN It is essential to have a plan if one is to lead a global network of WONCA’s size and complexity. We have needed to recognize and assess our accomplishments, adjust our course, and prioritize our resource allocation. The Strategic Plan for 2023-2028 is a specific agenda item on our Council Agenda. We base the Plan’s development on input from the broader membership of WONCA. I want to thank all of you who have contributed to that process. · MEMBERSHIP ISSUES One of WONCA’s primary objectives is to serve its members effectively. However, as our base expands, we are encountering a growing number of membership management challenges. Notably, issues connected to multiple member organizations and voting protocols have led to confusion, and to tensions. To address this, we propose the formation of a dedicated task force charged with studying these issues and suggesting actionable solutions. We plan to discuss their findings at the WONCA World Council Meeting, in Lisbon 2025. This agenda item will also be directly addressed during our Council meeting in Sydney. · ACCREDITATION ACTIVITIES There is a shared understanding that an aspect of WONCA’s mission is to support the development of training schemes, quality evaluation systems, and professional development within clinical practice. We have begun to look at how to develop WONCA`s consultancy services further, to increase our support for the development of Family Medicine in many countries. This is a work‑in‑progress.
The pandemic did give us one gift, however: it served as an unexpected catalyst for a large-scale experiment in digital communications, allowing us to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of virtual meetings.
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ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION, WONCA · THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE For the first time in WONCA’s history, the Executive Committee was constituted virtually. Since then, we have met for sixteen online meetings; by the time the Council opens in Sydney, we will have met in person only three times. Eight of the fifteen members were newcomers to the WONCA Executive; for them, this was quite an unusual term. I send great gratitude to the entire Executive for their invaluable efforts and contribution – and their adaptability. · THE SECRETARIAT It has proved important for me to stay in close contact with the WONCA Secretariat team. I have followed their complex and at times difficult transition from Bangkok to Brussels, including the closing of the BVI incorporated organisation, and the establishment of WONCA Association. Scheduling my visits to Brussels to be physically present also for the online Executive meetings created opportunities to plan and assess WONCA operations in faceto-face meetings with the WONCA CEO and his staff. This afforded the additional advantage of having in-person meetings with members and working groups in and around Brussels. I am deeply grateful to CEO Harris Lygidakis for all the effort he has put in during these most trying circumstances. He has established a well-functioning, serviceminded Secretariat. We now have a full-time Communication Officer as well; a communication strategy and communication skills are pivotal for increasing WONCA’s visibility. MEETING YOU, WONCA’S MEMBERS Once the pandemic restrictions that had so disrupted our long-planned conferences were lifted, everything seemed to happen all at once. Despite little time to plan or coordinate, the CEO and I made it to meetings in several countries and on several levels – with WHO, with the OECD, and with such stakeholders as politicians and policy makers.
WONCA NEWS
Best of all, we met the WONCA members. To build a common identity, we need to meet! I’ve attended Regional Conferences in all seven WONCA regions at least once since I became President-Elect in 2018, as well as national conferences in several regions. I attended Regional Councils and YDM preconferences, virtually and in person, and delivered keynote addresses at conferences in all our regions. During my term as President, I’ve spent close to 150 days on the road representing WONCA, enabling me to meet many of you members on your home turf, within your own context. · TRAVELS To give you a sense of what those 150 WONCA travel days meant in practice, here’s my itinerary for just the late autumn of 2022: On 02. November, I left Oslo for Brussels, for a two‑day Executive meeting and work sessions with the CEO and the Secretariat. I then flew to Guatemala where I spoke at the La Cumbre/The Health Summit and toured the country’s Health System. Next, I headed to Phoenix, Arizona, for the North American Primary Care Research Group (NAPCR) conference, where I’d also been asked to speak. Finding no direct flights from Arizona to Abuja, Nigeria, I flew via Frankfurt. Once in Nigeria, CEO Harris Lygidakis and I both attended the WONCA Africa Conference. After nearly four weeks away, I flew home for a short week. I checked in with my GP practice patients and colleagues, and, of course, with my family and friends, before my next long‑haul flight – this one to the WONCA Asia Pacific Conference, in Bali, Indonesia. After that week of attending in‑person and online meetings, and experiencing Bali, I flew home for a fast stopover in Oslo. Then, I was off to Cairo for the EMRO UHC week, and the launch of the Family Medicine Diploma. May and June 2022, as well as March and April 2023, offered me similar logistical, and stamina, challenges.
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· LEARNING This tells you where, but little about what. Imagine if you can how my worldview expanded thanks to my immersion in such an inspiringly wide array of contexts, many of which are vastly different from my own! The Family Doctor that I am is still at work – body, mind, and being – digesting the knowledge that you WONCA members and groups so generously shared with me. I have sought to plow that learning back into WONCA. Some of it made its way into my Newsletters. After my tenure as President, I see an outlet for more of it via my participation in the upcoming Core Values brainstorming project. Shedding light on the core values that WONCA stands for can help us define our shared identity and thus increase our visibility. That, in turn, broadens our opportunities to exert influence. SPEAKING AS YOUR (NEARLY) PAST-PRESIDENT Various suggestions have come to mind during my term: · ELECTIONS WONCA work is volunteer work. It is important that members who put their names forward to fill elected or appointed positions and roles understand the nature and complexity of the tasks and responsibilities for which they are volunteering. To this end, I strongly recommend that WONCA’s Executive Committee consider formulating rules and guidelines for members running for offices. These could also ensure equal conditions for all candidates, regardless of geography/time zones or local resources. In 2016, the length of each President’s term was reduced from three to two years. We might want to evaluate whether that length has proved to be optimal. Once WONCA officers are elected, further professionalizing of WONCA operations will require that they receive governance training. Clear visions of principles, obligations, and roles help enable our trusted people to fulfill their duties to the best of their ability, as well as for the best of the organization.
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Because of the disruptions caused by the pandemic, the 2021 campaigning and elections were carried out entirely on a digital platform. Utilization of such platforms will most likely predominate in the years to come, as we see happening now, in the leadup to this year`s elections. It’s important to communicate and ensure this overriding principle: that election procedures take place during the WONCA World Council, under the jurisdiction, responsibility, and supervision of the WONCA World President and the Executive Committee. · THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE The current Executive Committee framework was established decades ago. Given the evolving complexities of our world and our expanding membership base, it may be time to reevaluate this structure. For example, as legal frameworks and global financial systems have evolved, we have seen their accompanying bureaucratic hurdles hinder our operations increasingly over the past two terms. Consequently, I suggest, for example, that we consider transitioning to a smaller, skill-based Executive Board, supplemented by a broader panel with advisory and representative roles.
WONCA NEWS
AND FINALLY… I will miss the entire monthly Newsletter process: exploring topics that are close to this Family Doctor’s heart, contemplating the implications of each of them, formulating my thoughts as best I can, then getting to share them with a huge group of peers whom I respect! I`d like to thank Susan S Senstad for supporting me in the writing process, enabling me to express my views and messages with clarity in a language that is not my mother tongue. I am looking forward to extending my gratitude in person to those of you who come to Sydney. To all WONCA members, whether I have met you in writing, online, and/or in person during the past two years: for your support, your kindness, and respect, I simply say: Thank You! It will soon be my honor to enact that core principle of Democracy: The orderly, peaceful transfer of power. It is with a happy heart that I place the responsibility and privilege of being WONCA’s next President into Karen Flegg’s caring and competent hands.
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D R A N N A S T A V D A L WONCA PRESIDENT
W O N C A
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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, FIRSTSERVED OPPORTUNITY! *Note: Pins will be distributed in person at the upcoming WONCA World Conference in Sydney.
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!
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CELEBRATE OUR FIFTY YEARS BY HELPING US ON THE CRITICAL MISSION
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WONCA NEWS
A Catalyst for Innovation and Growth in Family Medicine INTRODUCTION WONCA is thrilled to introduce its Collaborative Fund, a pioneering initiative that leverages the power of crowdfunding to fuel innovation and collaboration within the global family medicine community. As we eagerly await the upcoming announcement of the winning projects, let's delve deeper into the transformative potential of this fund. WHAT IS CROWDFUNDING? Crowdfunding is a modern approach to raising capital through collective contributions from a large number of individuals, typically via the internet. It democratizes the funding process, allowing for smaller donations from a diverse group of stakeholders, and actively engages the community in the projects they help fund. Example Imagine a project requiring $10,000 for completion. Instead of seeking a single large investor, the project can be funded by 200 people each contributing $50. This broadens the range of stakeholders and allows more people to contribute to projects that matter to them. THE VISION BEHIND THE COLLABORATIVE FUND: MORE THAN JUST FUNDING The WONCA Collaborative Fund is a multifaceted initiative designed to serve as both a financial resource and a strategic tool. It acts as an incubator for small projects that are in the ideation and experimentation phase, providing crucial 'seed' funding.
This enables these projects to potentially scale up and attract additional donors or grants for further development. This seed funding aligns with WONCA's broader mission to advance the field of family medicine globally. Simultaneously, the fund aims to foster innovation and collaboration among our Working Parties (WPs) and Special Interest Groups (SIGs). By leveraging the innovative approach of crowdfunding, we are democratizing the funding process, empowering these groups to bring their groundbreaking ideas to fruition. SCOPE OF PROJECTS Simultaneously, the fund aims to foster innovation and collaboration among our Working Parties (WPs) and Special Interest Groups (SIGs). By leveraging the innovative approach of crowdfunding, we are democratizing the funding process, empowering these groups to bring their groundbreaking ideas to fruition. The fund is designed to support projects across a variety of domains, including: - Capacity Building - Training Activities - Policy Development - Advocacy - Research We have encouraged potential applicants to think creatively within these domains, emphasizing that the fund is open to a wide range of innovative ideas.
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LEVERAGING OUR DONATIONS PLATFORM WONCA maintains a general donations page, which has been in the experimental phase since May. This general fund serves broader organizational needs and supports the overarching goals of WONCA. We are now launching a second campaign for general donations. For more information, visit WONCA Fifty Years Caring for People Donations. How the Collaborative Fund Differs To ensure targeted support for our innovative projects, WONCA is enhancing its donations platform to feature individual pages for each selected project. These dedicated pages will provide a comprehensive description of the project along with a specific call to action to donate. This targeted approach allows donors to contribute directly to projects that resonate with them, ensuring that their donations are allocated precisely where they intend.
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THE SELECTION COMMITTEE We are pleased to announce that we received a total of 11 project submissions for the WONCA Collaborative Fund. To ensure a balanced and thorough evaluation process, we assembled a selection committee comprising experts from diverse areas within the field of family medicine. This committee has completed its rigorous assessment and the results will be announced shortly. The members of the selection committee are: • Val Wass, Honorary Treasurer of WONCA • Doris Young, Professor of General Practice at the University of Melbourne • Herny Lawson, Vice Rector of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons • Warren Newton, President of the American Board of Family Medicine • Harris Lygidakis, CEO of WONCA This committee was meticulously chosen to ensure that each project received a fair and comprehensive evaluation, aligning with WONCA’s standards and objectives of the WONCA Collaborative Fund. OPPORTUNITIES AND EXPECTATIONS FOR PROJECT WINNERS Winners will have the unique opportunity to pitch their projects during the third day of our Council Meeting in Sydney on October 24. Additionally, they will be able to meet participants in our dedicated exhibition booth located next to WONCA's booth. Various promotional activities are also planned to inform both the WONCA community and the general public about these innovative projects. These are not just opportunities for exposure but also for networking and potential collaborations.
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BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE ECOSYSTEM FOR INNOVATION AND GROWTH The WONCA Collaborative Fund is more than a one-time initiative; it's a blueprint for ongoing innovation in the global family medicine community. Our goal is to make this fund an annual event, providing a consistent source of 'seed' funding for earlystage projects. These projects, once scaled, are expected to contribute broadly to family medicine, from capacity building and training to policy and advocacy. By making the fund recurring, we ensure a continuous influx of fresh ideas. Each cycle will build on the successes and lessons of its predecessors, creating a dynamic ecosystem where innovation is not just encouraged but systematically nurtured. CONCLUSION 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. We extend an invitation to the entire WONCA community and beyond to participate in this initiative. Your contributions, whether as project participants or donors, are vital for turning this vision into a reality. For more details, visit WONCA Collaborative Fund.
Winning projects will have 4 to 8 months to raise the required funds through donations. Once funded, they will have up to 2 years for implementation. This timeline ensures that projects have adequate time to secure funding and execute their plans effectively.
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WONCA NEWS
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WONCA NEWS
Hello to the world’s family doctors and my dear colleagues, With less than a month to go and many of you coming from faraway I hope thoughts are now turning to our much-anticipated Conference. A world conference that is a YEAR late and is still ironically the 50th Year Celebration of WONCA. Pack for warm weather. As you might know WONCA began in 1972 in Australia, and you will be able to follow its fascinating history through a wonderful display by RACGP historian and archivist Associate Professor Christopher Hogan. On that timeline is an interesting tale regarding the WONCA Wombat. The WONCA wombat is called this after an incident in 1986 by HRH Prince Phillip mispronouncing the WONCA acronym for Wombat. Please keep an eye out for the wombat a native Australian animal during the conference to honour this humorous tradition. Irony is an Australian tradition. I would like to take this opportunity as my last newsletter as Chair of the Host Organising Committee to thank everyone involved in the conference organising. Thank you to the Scientific Committee ably led by Professor Mark Morgan and co-chaired by Professor Felicity Goodyear-Smith. All committee members who volunteered to peer review the many presentations the WONCA community submitted. I believe we have a world class program that can advance Family Medicine wherever you practice.
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WONCA NEWS
The International committee ably led by Associate Professor Karen Flegg. Thank-you to all in the committee for your contributions and knowledge that must be integrated for an international conference. Not only do we have world class presentations we were conscious of ensuring cultural competence and equity within the international community of WONCA. Thank you to all the regions of WONCA for their excellence. The Host Organising Committee which oversees the other committees was chaired by me but was really a masterclass of contributions and demonstrated the power of collaborative leadership. To all committee members including past WONCA leaders your careful and considered advice in final decisions was so greatly appreciated. Thank you to Professor Donald Li for some fabulous restaurant recommendations! We have lost and gained staff during that time and the initial efforts were considerable. The final team picking up capably and carrying the baton of good work into the final delivery phases of this brilliant conference deserve great thanks also.
PS DON’T FORGET YOUR GREEN CLOTHES FOR GREEN DAY A CONFERENCE ADVOCACY STATEMENT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF HEALTH ON OUR PRECIOUS WORLD. AND LOOK OUT FOR THE PHOTO COMPETITION!!! FIND MORE HERE.
To the WONCA executives and administration thank you for partnering so capably and so completely. A true and lasting collaboration and commitment to the internationalism of Family Medicine. To all who are submitting such wonderful work to make this conference a show case of academic and practical family medicine thank you. I have such pride in your contributions. Finally to all delegates and sponsors. Thank you for your enthusiasm for the 50th anniversary world conference for Family Doctors. WONCA is worth celebrating as a celebration of and international advocate for primary care. May we live and embrace the conference themes of recovery reconnection and revival. Peace and safe travels. May your luggage travel with you! See you soon. I am so looking forward to meeting you all.
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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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WONCA NEWS
OCTOBER UPDATE With just a couple of weeks to go until WONCA 2023, if you haven’t registered , don’t miss out on this dynamic conference and program, and learning opportunity! You can still secure your spot through the WONCA 2023 website and just a reminder for RACGP members, attendance at the conference earns you CPD hours. DISCOVER WONCA 2023'S INTERACTIVE FLIPBOOK Do not miss out on the updated interactive flipbook for WONCA 2023, which includes all of the program information (presentations, pre-conference workshops, clinical skills updates, CPR workshops and sessions for practice owners), as well as details on the gala dinner, networking breakfast, welcome reception, national faculties evening, and even Tai Chi! THE WONCA 2023 GREEN DAY PHOTO COMPETITION IS NOW OPEN! We’re encouraging our delegates to submit photographs that demonstrate the impact of the environment in their local area, and how it may be linked to environmental changes in general practice and family medicine. The top 3 photos will be judged by the Conference Host Organising Committee and displayed at the conference. Enter now In the meantime, stay up-to-date on the latest conference news through the WONCA 2023 website and the RACGP's social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
SESSION INSIGHT - EMERGENCY MEDICINE PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOP Practice-based workshops are a key part of the agenda for WONCA 2023 and in this highly interactive workshop, you can enhance your rural emergency medicine skills by using case scenarios that reflect the challenges faced when working in rural and remote communities. Explore critical considerations involved in managing rural emergency cases, packaging patients for retrieval, communicating effectively with retrieval teams, debriefing and self-care. This is a CPD approved activity and eligible for a one-day emergency medicine grant through the Rural Procedural Grants Program. SESSION INSIGHT - QUALITY AND SAFETY Quality and safety is at the heart of primary healthcare practice and participants at WONCA 2023 have the opportunity to choose from seven sessions covering this important topic. Sessions include a range of presentations covering the latest research and practical skills workshops. Sessions will explore the importance of patient and family engagement, including the reasons why patients should be encouraged to have question prompt lists.
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They will also cover the management of patient requests, including requests for lowvalue or harmful care, as well as balancing general practice with complementary medicine. The sessions also cover the analysis of practice health records to improve health outcomes and the reasons for claims and complaints against Australian GPs from a medical indemnity perspective.
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WONCA NEWS
SESSION INSIGHT – RURAL PRACTICE Working in remote and regional settings delivers unique challenges for GPs and family doctors. During WONCA 2023, 12 sessions will shine a light on the demands and challenges on the regional and rural workforce and how these can be better supported. Regional and rural healthcare workforce challenges are addressed in a number of sessions, including the exploration of innovative virtual tools to combat workforce shortages, building the capacity and sustainability of regional health workforces, and an exploration of medical student placement programs in regional settings. Regional and rural streams include the exploration of case studies from Australian and international regional and rural settings, offering participants an opportunity to gain learnings from a range of rural settings. Presentations will also take a regional perspective on specific medical concerns, such as a focus on palliative care in rural Australia and improving access for internally displaced populations. They will also focus on improving the skills of GPs working in regional and rural settings, such as GP skills during natural disaster responses.
SESSION INSIGHT – A NOVEL APPROACH TO MEDICALLY SUPERVISED WEIGHT MANAGEMENT IN THE GENERAL PRACTICE SETTING Pre-conference workshops provide the opportunity to learn specialised skills as part of interactive workshops. This workshop focuses on building skills to support patients to achieve safe and sustainable weight loss, while managing any existing underlying conditions. While weight management support has been part of standard practice for GPs, the growing number of pharmacotherapeutic options makes this field even more complex and the need for expert guidance by a GP essential.
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ABOUT THE VENUE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE The International Convention Centre (ICC Sydney) is an integrated harbourside convention, exhibition and entertainment venue with convenient access to Australia’s most cosmopolitan city. Located close to the financial, dining and retail precinct of Barangaroo, the ICC Sydney is a short walk to the city centre and has a number of galleries, theatres and concert halls nearby. ICC Sydney is a purpose-built accessible venue. Further information on ICC Sydney’s accessibility and inclusion for visitors can be found in the guide on its website.
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WORLD FAMILY DOCTOR DAY A Campaign Created by
19.May.2024
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WORLD COUNCIL MEETING 2023 SHAPING OUR FUTURE With just a few weeks remaining, our anticipation is building as we prepare to welcome representatives from our Member organizations to the highly anticipated WONCA World Council Meeting 2023. This significant gathering is scheduled to take place from Sunday, October 22nd to Tuesday, October 24th, in the vibrant city of Sydney, Australia. What makes this assembly even more exciting is that it will be conducted in a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person and virtual participation. This upcoming meeting holds a pivotal role as we are poised to make critical decisions that will profoundly shape the future of our organization. Delegates will have the honor of casting their votes on vital resolutions that will guide our path forward. Additionally, this gathering will play a decisive role in the selection of our new President-Elect, executive members at large, and the designation of the host city for the WONCA World Conference in 2027. We are genuinely thrilled at the prospect of meeting and engaging with all delegates and observers representing our Member Organizations, whether in person or through virtual channels. Together, we will collaboratively shape the destiny of our organization. Be sure to stay tuned for forthcoming updates.
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WONCA NEWS
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WONCA NEWS
WONCA HONOURS
DR WONGANI M. KUMWENDA
WITH ATAI'S AWARD
WONCA is proud to announce that Dr Wongani M. Kumwenda, a dedicated and passionate family medicine registrar from Malawi, has been awarded the esteemed Atai Award for 2023. This award, named in honor of Dr Atai Omoruto, a trailblazing African family physician, is designed to empower African women doctors facing economic barriers, particularly those in the early stages of their careers, by providing them with opportunities to attend WONCA's biennial conferences. Dr Wongani M. Kumwenda's remarkable dedication to advocating for patients in underserved communities has earned her this prestigious recognition. She currently serves as a family medicine registrar at Nkhoma site under Kamuzu University of Health Sciences and is in her first year of the program. Her commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by patients in resource-constrained settings and her determination to improve healthcare equity have made her a shining example in the field of family medicine. In her own words, Dr Kumwenda shares her passion for family medicine and her vision for the future: "I love to advocate for my patients, as in most cases, we are serving a population with low literacy levels and limited resources. The case I'll be presenting at WONCA conference 2023 will highlight some of the challenges we face, such as language barriers when services are provided by someone who doesn't know our local language, Chichewa, which affects the quality of care provided to the patients. I engaged with parties involved to prevent such a scenario from happening again."
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Dr Kumwenda's commitment to bridging the gap in healthcare service provision extends beyond her advocacy efforts. She aspires to bring basic specialist services to hard-toreach areas and is dedicated to teaching and mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals. Furthermore, she places a strong emphasis on quality improvement to ensure the highest level of care for her patients. Attending the WONCA 2023 conference will provide Dr Kumwenda with invaluable opportunities to learn from her colleagues, share her experiences, and further develop her skills as a leader, advocate, and service provider in the field of family medicine. WONCA is proud to support and recognize the outstanding work of Dr Wongani M. Kumwenda and other African women doctors who are making a significant impact on healthcare in their communities. The Atai Award serves as a testament to our commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of family medicine. Please join us in congratulating Dr Wongani M. Kumwenda for her exceptional achievements and her dedication to improving healthcare for all.
THE WONCA WORKING PARTY ON WOMEN AND FAMILY MEDICINE CONGRATULATES DR WONGANI M. KUMWENDA ATAI'S AWARD Dr Atai Anna Deborah Omoruto, Ugandan was a very energetic, friendly person and an extraordinary family doctor. She graduated from Rajasthan University, India in 1982 and completed her MMed (Family Medicine and
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community practice) at Makerere University, Uganda in 2002. She was married and had 5 children. She was a hardworking, dedicated woman who fought for women’s rights. She pioneered the establishment of the Family Medicine program at Makerere University and then became the Head of Department of Family Medicine there for 9 years (20042011). She then became Head of Department of Community Medicine in Jinja RR hospital for 4 years (2011-2015). She was the WHO consultant on Ebola and disease case management in Liberia July-Dec 2015. She was active in teaching and research and was the past President and founder of the Association of Family Medicine in Uganda. Her leadership role in Family Medicine in Uganda and Africa in general was inspiring. Her selflessness, courage, and commitment all her patients, including those with Ebola both in Uganda and Liberia was remarkable. She took on the challenges of providing care to those most in need, as well continuing her academic work. She was also a member of the women’s association, Uganda, and was a direct member of WONCA and active member WWPWFM executive team. I will not forget her presence at the Rural Wonca conference at Rustenburg, South Africa in 2009, where she and Kate Anteyi gathered 20 women from the conference venue to speak about WWPWFM. She inspired me to join WONCA and the Working Party. Her dedication to inspiring women physicians toward Family Medicine and to take up the flag for women’s health was exceptional. The Dr Atai Anne Deborah Omoruto Scholarship Award is given in the spirit of Atai’s leadership role in Family Medicine and the community of Africa/world. This is a tribute to her for the advancement of women Family Physicians in Africa. Atai was the posthumous recipient of WONCA 2016 Global Five Star Doctor Award in recognition of her extraordinary service as a family medicine leader over many years, her service to the people of Uganda, and her extraordinary leadership tackling the Ebola crisis in West Africa. Atai passed away in May 2016, a shock and a great loss to those of us who knew her.
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The Award criteria: The aim of the award is to support opportunities for African women doctors whose economic circumstances limit their ability to attend WONCA biennial conferences, particularly women early in their careers. The candidate for the Atai Omoruto Award should be an African woman family physician or family medicine resident in Africa, who demonstrates significant contributions in Africa, in any the following areas: • Leadership in Family Medicine at the institutional, local, or national level • Commitment to the advancement of women in family medicine • Clinical courage and selflessness in providing care to the most vulnerable populations. AWARD WINNER: 2023 Dr Wongani Kumwenda from Malawi was awarded the Dr Atai Anne Deborah Omoruto Scholarship Award:2023. She is a young registrar, Masters in Family Medicine at Kamuzu University, Malawi. She has interest in primary care and was working as a Principal medical officer in a district hospital before she joined the Family Medicine program. Her supervisor describes her as highly committed person to her patients and the community where she works. She is a passionate and hardworking person.
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DR ELIZABETH REJI
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She is allocated to a rural community, Lilongwe which is the poorest population of Malawi (70,000 people) and has the highest rate of severe acute malnutrition especially in children. She was involved in community outreach programs during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide health talks and support, and in meetings with stakeholders on the low vaccination uptake within the Dedza district, Malawi. She is engaged with the malaria reduction campaign and management within the district and assists with quality improvement projects at the facility.
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During Cholera endemic, she volunteered to work in the cholera Isolation centre which was not patronized by the local staff members as most of the people were afraid of contracting Cholera. She was in the cholera rapid response committee. She trained the community on hand hygiene, safe water, and food. The most painful part of the work in a low resourced setting are the following: limited drugs and medical supplies and the patients donot have money to pay for these medicines or care. Family Medicine program has helped me to appreciate its relevance in these setting and taught me to manage the patients with limited resources. Since patients cannot attend the secondary or tertiary hospitals, one finds modalities to just improve the quality of life for the patients by thinking outside of the box with limited resources. Family medicine has taught me to be an advocate for the patient, work with communities to solve some of the problems and it improves the relationship with the patients and their families through communication. She mentors the staff of the facility with guidance in management and quality improvement. She supervises and teaches undergraduate medical students who train at her hospital. She is engaged in continuous professional development of the staff, provides lectures and drills etc. DONATION FOR THIS AWARD: Donation to Atai’s scholarship award can be made by any region and by any colleagues around the world. This will support the African region to sponsor a woman for an international or local conference within Africa. Payment is strictly through WONCA administration, and the money is not distributed to other funds. Wonca has implemented an organization-wide donation system through “Donorbox”, and Wonca suggests that we should use this system to collect funds for the Atai bursary.
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WONCA WP ON EDUCATION
NOW AVAILABLE: FAMILY MEDICINE IN THE UNDERGRADUATE CURRICULUM In a world where universal healthcare and sustainable development goals are paramount, the launch of "Family Medicine in the Undergraduate Curriculum: Preparing Medical Students to Work in Evolving Healthcare Systems," edited by Val Wass and Victor Ng, signifies a major breakthrough in medical education. Although available for purchase today, this groundbreaking publication, set to reshape family medicine education, will be featured in this article.
MEET THE AUTHORS AT Additionally, meet the authors at the WONCA World Conference 2023 in Sydney, Australia, where they'll be available at the WONCA Booth on Friday, October 27th, from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM.
This practical guide is a first-of-its-kind resource tailored for those involved in family medicine and primary care education in medical schools globally. It provides concise, easy-to-follow chapters with key references, making it accessible to educators worldwide. 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 "Family Medicine in the Undergraduate Curriculum" is now available for online. Discover more here.
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WONCA AND WFPHA SIGN MOU FOR PRIMARY HEALTHCARE In a significant development at the historic Sigmund Freud Museum in Vienna, the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA) and the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This cooperative effort marks an important stride towards addressing the global challenges associated with achieving Universal Health Care (UHC) by 2030, as outlined in the Astana 2018 declaration. The recently ratified MOU between WONCA and WFPHA is a pragmatic call to action, urging a renewed commitment to comprehensive health and social care with a strong focus on PHC. This partnership highlights the importance of interprofessional and interdisciplinary teamwork as the cornerstone of resilient health and social service systems.
WONCA President, Dr Anna Stavdal, also voiced support for the MOU, stating, "Family doctors play a pivotal role in delivering patient-centered care. This alliance allows us to merge our expertise with public health perspectives, creating a substantial force for positive change in healthcare worldwide." The MOU solidifies the commitment of both organizations to work collaboratively, promoting comprehensive healthcare solutions that give due emphasis to Primary Health Care and work towards achieving the goal of Universal Health Care for all by 2030.
Central to this collaboration is the establishment of the Global Forum for Primary Health Care (GlobalPHC), a pioneering initiative aimed at uniting multiple health worker organizations. The GlobalPHC seeks to advocate for comprehensive healthcare, the realization of UHC, and the promotion of shared values that underlie effective healthcare systems. Prof Bettina Borisch, Executive Director of the World Federation of Public Health Associations, expressed her support for this partnership, stating: “Health is the result of multiple influencing conditions. That is why we have to adopt a systems approach and really work together, such as Public Health and primary care”.
READ THE MOU HERE
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UNIFYING VOICES FOR GLOBAL MENTAL WELLNESS A JOINT DECLARATION BY WFPHA, WONCA, AND WPA The World Federation of Public Health Associations, World Organization of Family Doctors and World Psychiatric Assocation are pleased to publish this Public Mental Health Joint Statement on World Mental Health Day 10/10/23. This commits to collaborative working in order to improve the implementation of public mental interventions to treat mental health conditions, prevent associated impacts, prevent mental health conditions, and promote mental wellbeing. PUBLIC MENTAL HEALTH JOINT STATEMENT BY WFPHA, WONCA AND WPA Mental health conditions (MHCs) are responsible for a large proportion of global disease burden and result in a broad range of impacts across sectors. Mental wellbeing has a broad range of impacts across sectors at individual and population level. Particular groups are at several-fold increased risk of MHCs and poor mental wellbeing.
However, only a minority with MHCs receive any treatment even in high-income countries, far fewer receive interventions to prevent associated impacts, and there is negligible coverage of interventions to prevent MHCs, or promote mental wellbeing and resilience. Implementation failure breaches the right to health and results in population-scale preventable suffering, broad impacts across sectors and associated economic costs. Furthermore, the implementation gap has further widened since the COVID-19 pandemic. It underscores the importance of coordinated action to address the implementation gap particularly in the face of global challenges stemming from health crises, climate change, migration, conflicts, and wars.
The World Federation of Public Health Associations, the World Organization of Family Doctors, and the World Psychiatric Association acknowledge that a whole system approach is required to address this implementation failure and the universal right to mental health. They therefore commit to support collaborative working in order to improve the implementation of public mental health interventions. This will support sustainable reduction in MHCs, improved population mental wellbeing, and broad associated benefits across populations. It is time to join forces and address both the wider determinants of mental health and those of mental health conditions overcoming limitations and shortcomings of monodisciplinary approaches to mental health and MHCs.
Mental health conditions and wellbeing are determined by a complex interplay of risk and protective factors at individual, community, and structural levels. Evidence-based public mental health interventions exist to treat and prevent MHCs, prevent associated impacts, and promote mental wellbeing and resilience. Different types of public mental health interventions are provided by various sectors, including primary care, secondary mental health care, and public health. Higher-risk groups require more targeted approaches to prevent widening of inequalities.
Signed on World Mental Health Day 10/10/23
PUBLIC MENTAL HEALTH JOINT STATEMENT BY WFPHA, WONCA AND WPA
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WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY With information from who.org
World Mental Health Day 2023 is an opportunity for people and communities to unite behind the theme ‘Mental health is a universal human right” to improve knowledge, raise awareness and drive actions that promote and protect everyone’s mental health as a universal human right. Mental health is a basic human right for all people. Everyone, whoever and wherever they are, has a right to the highest attainable standard of mental health. This includes the right to be protected from mental health risks, the right to available, accessible, acceptable, and good quality care, and the right to liberty, independence and inclusion in the community. Good mental health is vital to our overall health and well-being. Yet one in eight people globally are living with mental health conditions, which can impact their physical health, their well-being, how they connect with others, and their livelihoods. Mental health conditions are also affecting an increasing number of adolescents and young people.
Having a mental health condition should never be a reason to deprive a person of their human rights or to exclude them from decisions about their own health. Yet all over the world, people with mental health conditions continue to experience a wide range of human rights violations. Many are excluded from community life and discriminated against, while many more cannot access the mental health care they need or can only access care that violates their human rights. WHO continues to work with its partners to ensure mental health is valued, promoted, and protected, and that urgent action is taken so that everyone can exercise their human rights and access the quality mental health care they need. Join the World Mental Health Day 2023 campaign to learn more about your basic right to mental health as well as how to protect the rights of others.
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THE WONCA WORKING PARTY ON MENTAL HEALTH JOINS THIS CELEBRATION Prof. Christos Lionis, on behalf of the WONCA Working Party on Mental Health World Mental Health Day 2023 allows individuals and communities to rally around the theme, "Mental health is a universal human right." This day aims to enhance understanding, raise awareness, and drive actions that promote and safeguard everyone's mental health as an inherent human right.1 Mental health is a fundamental human right for all individuals. Regardless of who they are or where they reside, everyone possesses the right to the highest attainable standard of mental health. This encompasses the right to protection from mental health risks, access to available, acceptable, and high-quality care, as well as the right to liberty, independence, and inclusion within the community. This concept prompts us to reexamine the World Health Organization's definition of mental health as "a state of mental well-being in which people effectively cope with life's various stresses, realize their potential, function productively, and contribute to their communities".2 It underscores the significance of mental wellbeing, particularly in the face of global challenges stemming from health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, migration, conflicts, and wars. Recognizing the interconnected nature of these challenges and their impact on mental health, general practitioners and family physicians are encouraged to actively engage in the development of comprehensive, holistic approaches to address them. This is not a simple task, as they must view mental health as a two-dimensional concept, as outlined in an opinion document by the EC Expert Panel on Effective Ways of Investing in Health (2021). 3 Based on that document, one dimension pertains to the continuum, which can be described as either pathogenic or illness-focused, ranging from the absence of mental illness to severe mental illness.
The other dimension, health-focused, encompasses a spectrum of ability to function. The ability to function is considered a human right for the people and a task for general practitioners and family physicians who need to play a pivotal role in assisting individuals in coping with a stressful and uncertain current environment. This also places a significant responsibility on WONCA, particularly its Working Party on Mental Health, to contribute to this endeavor and initiate various initiatives. In this direction, numerous training activities and programs by the Working Party are already in progress.
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REFERENCES 1.https://www.who.int/newsroom/events/detail/2023/10/10/defaultcalendar/world-mental-health-day-2023--mental-health-is-a-universal-human-right1. 2.https://www.who.int/news-room/factsheets/detail/mental-health-strengtheningour-response. 3. Expert Panel on Effective Ways of Investing in Health. Supporting mental health of health workforce and other essential workers. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 2021
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EMPOWERING FAMILY DOCTORS FOR BETTER MENTAL HEALTH CARE World Mental Health Day is a reminder of the importance of mental health care worldwide. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a global concern, now recognized as a leading cause of disability across the globe. Shockingly, a significant percentage of those affected remain undiagnosed or undertreated. In response to this challenge, WONCA, in collaboration with the WONCA Working Party on Mental Health and Mosaica Solutions, has initiated the MDD Minds for Primary Care Project, funded by an unrestricted grant from Pfizer*. This ambitious 30-month project aims to elevate the quality of care provided by family doctors for major depressive disorders in regions such as Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America. REFERENCES At the heart of the MDD Minds Project is the unwavering commitment to improve the lives of those affected by MDD. The goal is clear: to enhance the quality of care delivered by family doctors in areas with limited access to mental health resources. WHY IT MATTERS: The global prevalence of depression calls for urgent action. Sadly, a significant portion of individuals grappling with depression goes unnoticed, and consequently, untreated. To address this pressing issue, integrating mental health care into primary care settings, particularly within the realm of family medicine, has become a priority for international health organizations.
EMPOWERING FAMILY DOCTORS: The MDD Minds Project revolves around empowering family doctors—the frontline caregivers in many communities. By equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to diagnose and manage MDD, the project intends to bridge the gap in mental health care. THE BENEFICIARIES: Ultimately, it's the patients who stand to gain the most. As family doctors become more proficient in identifying and addressing major depressive disorders, patients receive the care and support they deserve. This project seeks to ensure that family doctors are not only knowledgeable but also empowered to make informed decisions about treatment and support for MDD patients. THE PATH FORWARD: To achieve these ambitious goals, the MDD Minds Project employs a comprehensive approach. It includes a training course, a train-the-trainer program, and a performance-in-practice scheme. This multifaceted strategy is designed to impart the necessary knowledge and skills to family doctors, enabling them to provide better care.
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Through this training, physicians will enhance their competence in identifying depression and anxiety, educating patients, engaging in shared decision-making, and selecting appropriate treatments. They will also become adept at communicating with specialists for referrals and ensuring that patients receive the necessary follow-up care.
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ONLINE TRAINING COURSE STARTING OCTOBER 2023: The global prevalence of depression calls for urgent action. Sadly, a significant portion of individuals grappling with depression goes unnoticed, and consequently, untreated. To address this pressing issue, integrating mental health care into primary care settings, particularly within the realm of family medicine, has become a priority for international health organizations. As a pivotal component of the project, an online training course is set to commence in October 2023. You can register here https://wonca.questionpro.com/MDDminds1 01 and you can learn more about the MDD Minds Project here. This course will play a central role in equipping family doctors with the skills and knowledge needed to provide enhanced mental health care. By empowering family doctors with these capabilities, the MDD Minds Project endeavours to transform the landscape of mental health care in regions where it's needed the most. The ultimate aim is to ensure that no one suffering from depression is left without the care and support they require. On this World Mental Health Day, let us reflect on the importance of projects like MDD Minds for Primary Care and recognize the pivotal role of family doctors in fostering mental well-being within their communities. This course is open to family doctors and primary care professionals residing in Brazil, Indonesia, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Saudi Arabia, and Sri-Lanka. The course is currently offered in English. Versions in Spanish, Portuguese, and Japanese are currently under development. *An unrestricted grant is a form of funding provided to an organization without specific limitations or conditions imposed on its use. This means there are no restrictive guidelines or specific requirements dictating how the money should be spent, nor any influence on the content or outcome of the program. In this case, WONCA Association has the freedom to implement the program according to its principles and maintaining its autonomy.
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75TH ANNIVERSARY
WORLD FEDERATION FOR MENTAL HEALTH WONCA President Dr. Anna Stavdal extends her sincere congratulations to the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH), an organization in Collaborative Relations with WONCA, on the occasion of their 75th Anniversary. Dear Dr. Nasser Loza, President of the World Federation for Mental Health, and Prof. Gabriel Ivbijaro, Secretary-General of WFMH, On behalf of the World Organization of Family Doctors, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to the World Federation for Mental Health on the momentous occasion of your 75th anniversary. WFMH's dedication to mental health advocacy, policy formulation, and community engagement is an inspiration to us all. The breadth of your partnerships and the scope of your projects has touched lives across the globe. We are incredibly proud and grateful for our partnership with WFMH. Your commitment to dignity, rights, and equity in mental health aligns seamlessly with our own mission to improve the quality of life for families globally.
WORLD FEDERATION FOR MENTAL HEALTH 75TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL EVENT On 17th November 2023 the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH), an Organization in Collaborative Relations with WONCA, will be holding a special event in Geneva to commemorate the 75th anniversary of its foundation in 1948 entitled '75 years of mental health advocacy: achievements, challenges and the future.' Over the last 75 years WFMH has been active in the field of mental health advocacy, driven by the principles of world citizenship, fairness, and education of professionals and the general public. At its foundation in 1948, WFMH emphasized the need for multidisciplinary working. There was also an emphasis on the training of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and others so their skills could be devoted to finding solutions for human problems and for the application of clinical findings to broader social issues.
National mental health associations and institutions including professional bodies were urged to co-operate with their governments and the World Health Organization (WHO) so that mental health and wellbeing can be a priority for all of us. It was also noted that in addition to the WHO there was a need to work with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and other United Nations bodies to promote all aspects of mental health. WFMH is the oldest mental health advocacy organization in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations since 1963 and remains in Official Relations with the World Health Organization. WFMH has remained true to its founding principles over the last 75 years and it is time for further reflection, review and renewal. In order to achieve this, every voice matters and it is important that we hear from each and every one of you. Join this event by pre-registering HERE.
As you celebrate this significant milestone, we look forward to strengthening our collaboration with WFMH in the years to come. Together, we can continue to make strides in mental health care and advocacy, ensuring a healthier and more equitable world for all. Once again, congratulations on 75 remarkable years! Sincerely Dr Anna Stavdal WONCA President
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IN MEMORY OF
DR ABRA THOLSI FRANSCH PAST PRESIDENT OF WONCA AFRICA REGION
It is with sadness and a deep sense of loss that I bring to your notice the demise of a Past President of WONCA Africa Region, Dr Abra Tholsi Fransch. Dr Fransch, originally hailing from Zimbabwe, received her medical education there, culminating in her attainment of the MB; CHB degree from the University of Zimbabwe in 1984. She was President-Elect of WONCA Africa Region (WAR) from 2001 to 2004 and served as the WAR President from June 2004 to November 2005. She then suddenly emigrated to Canada and finally settled down in Australia. Prof. Khaya Mfenyanna from South Africa, who was the presidentelect in 2004, had to complete her tenure, and then he served his own tenure as president from 2005 to 2010. Late Abra Tholsi Fransch was the first female Regional President of WONCA Africa Region.
She will be buried on the 29th of September 2023 in Echuca, Victoria, Australia. She was self-employed for over 39 years. Dr Abra Fransch had considerable rural and remote experience, extensive experience working in Aboriginal communities, and she was interested in research and cosmetic medicine. She served as an Examiner (Pre-Employment Clinical Structured Interview PESCI) for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners for over 15 years. She shall be interred in Australia after a simple burial blessing, according to her wish. May the Almighty God grant the family, colleagues, and friends she left behind the fortitude to bear the loss. May her soul rest in peace.
Dr Abra Fransch died in Victoria, Australia, on the 21st of September 2023, after a protracted and well-fought battle with cancer.
DR DAN ABUBAKAR,
WONCA AFRICA REGION PRESIDENT
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IN MEMORY OF
DR OLIVER DAN SMITH FORMER COUNCIL MEMBER OF THE WONCA WP ON RURAL PRACTICE
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dr Dan Smith, a beloved figure in rural healthcare and a former Council member of the WONCA Working Party on Rural Practice, known for his unwavering dedication to rural medicine. Dr Dan Smith's distinguished career spanned decades of commitment to the field of medicine. After graduating from medical school in Memphis, Tennessee in 1969, he served in the U.S. Army and later joined his father and brother in a thriving family practice. Dr Smith's tireless efforts and commitment led him to become a Medical Director in long-term care facilities, a Hospice Medical Director, and to hold leadership positions within medical associations. In 1997, he was honoured as the Idaho Family Physician of the Year. In addition to his domestic contributions, Dr Smith and his wife, Vickie, volunteered extensively overseas, teaching and providing healthcare expertise in China. Their mission work exemplified their dedication to improving healthcare access on a global scale. Dr Smith was a cherished member of WONCA and a vital part of the WONCA Working Party on Rural Practice. He attended numerous WONCA meetings, sharing his expertise and passion for rural healthcare. His legacy of compassion, dedication, and the belief that "You can always do something to help" will continue to inspire us all.
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Prof Bruce Chater, Chair of the WONCA Working Party on Rural Practice, expressed his sorrow at the loss of Dan Smith, saying, "Dan was one of the early members of Rural WONCA and a great advocate for rural health in the USA. We so enjoyed his company and wisdom, and his tales of walking in the Tetons and Yellowstone." He further shared, "Our thoughts are with Vickie and their loved ones at this time." In this time of grief, we remember and honour Dr Oliver Dan Smith's remarkable legacy, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family.
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WHO LAUNCHES AIR POLLUTION TRAINING FOR HEALTH WORKERS In a landmark collaboration with over 30 international experts, the World Health Organization (WHO) has developed the first Air Pollution and Health Training toolkit (APHT), specifically tailored for health workers to be unveiled at the end of 2023. The toolkit includes downloadable training modules accompanied by a manual using a train-the-trainers approach to inform and empower health care professionals. In anticipation of the toolkit’s launch, an instrumental step is being taken to equip health care professionals for the challenges ahead by launching the user-friendly OpenWHO online training program, to coincide with this year's International Day for Clean Air for blue skies. This strategic move reflects a commitment to addressing air pollution concerns and fostering healthier conditions for all. “Health workers are on the front lines of patient care,” said Dr Maria Neira, Director, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, WHO. “Empowering health care providers to identify instances where air pollution impacts well-being and communities is paramount to public and global health. This training toolkit provides resources to communicate risks and to champion for clean air and healthier populations.”
AIR POLLUTION AND THE ROLE OF HEALTH WORKERS Air pollution is a significant global health challenge, with far-reaching consequences on both individual well-being and public health. WHO estimates that, globally, air pollution is responsible for about 7 million premature deaths per year from ischemic heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections such as pneumonia, mainly affecting children in lowand middle-income countries. Air pollution also threatens the global economy as it imposes enormous health costs, representing 6.1% of the global gross domestic product (more than US$ 8 trillion in 2019). The international community has recognized that health workers have a prominent role to play in the battle for clean air. Despite this recognition, a critical gap persists – many health curricula inadequately address the profound health consequences of air pollution. By enhancing the capacity of health professionals to tackle this issue, WHO envisions a healthier and cleaner future for communities worldwide, with particular attention to the most vulnerable populations. The APHT is designed for health workers, in both the clinical and public health fields, to understand the health risks of air pollution and identify risk reduction measures.
With information of who.org
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It equips health workers to use the health argument to advocate for clean air interventions and promote the collaboration between relevant civil society actors and governmental institutions for policy implementation. Using a train-the-trainer approach, the APHT also helps facilitate the organization of in-person workshops, online courses and other learning opportunities. The toll of illnesses stemming from air pollution exposure places a direct strain on health systems. The health sector therefore has a significant interest in improving air quality. Tools provided by WHO, such as this training program, can empower local health workers in their own communities to advocate for policy reforms while counselling patients and individuals on how to reduce their exposure. The first part of the toolkit is an OpenWHO online course, which aims to provide health workers with knowledge to understand the risks of air pollution and to communicate to individuals and communities how to reduce their exposure. This course is made up of 4 modules: outdoor (ambient) air pollution, household air pollution, the main health effects of air pollution exposure, and what health workers can do. The primary target audience of the free accessible online course, is health professionals worldwide. This includes medical practitioners, doctors, nurses, midwives, community health workers, medical students and future health care professionals, public health professionals, officials within health ministries and policymakers working at both national and subnational levels.
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INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON PRIMARY HEALTH CARE POLICY AND PRACTICE 45TH ANNIVERSARY OF ALMA-ATA AND 5TH ANNIVERSARY OF ASTANA DECLARATIONS ON PRIMARY HEALTH CARE
On 23 October WHO/Europe, together with UNICEF and the Government of Kazakhstan, is co-hosting an international conference to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Alma-Ata and 5th anniversary of Astana declarations on primary health care. The conference "Primary health care policy and practice: implementing for better results" will be an official side event of the 73rd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, to be held in Astana, Kazakhstan, in October 2023. The Conference will: Take stock of progress implementing the commitments in the Declaration of Astana on primary health care since 2018, including the impact of the COVID19 pandemic, and demonstrate concrete results; Shift focus from concepts to action by identifying implementation success factors based on country experiences; and
Identify policies and practices to futureproof primary health-care transformation for moving towards universal health coverage, for greater resilience in the face of emergencies, and better health and well-being. The Conference is aimed at strategic health leadership at national and subnational levels shaping primary health-care and service delivery transformation. In addition, senior officials in ministries of health with technical responsibility for organization of primary health-care services will be invited to participate, as will academic and technical experts from academic institutions, and international and nongovernmental organizations involved in shaping primary health-care services. The Conference will be held as a hybrid event. The face-to-face conference can accommodate up to 600 participants based on nominations of invited Member States and Partners.
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REGISTER NOW!
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The online platform will have unlimited hosting capabilities and will be open to all wishing to register. The online platform will provide livestreaming of the event as well as the option to engage with content asynchronously through videos, presentations, and hosted discussion forums.
VISIT THE WONCA VIRTUAL BOOTH AT THE PRE-CONFERENCE (1 SEPTEMBER–22 OCTOBER)
In the lead-up to the Conference, 4 moderated 3-hour virtual roundtable discussions will be held in order to establish a solid technical foundation for the Conference. The virtual roundtables will provide an opportunity to examine the evidence behind each of the plenary sessions, involve stakeholders to debate without capacity constraints, and come up with a summary set of points to feed into each of the plenary sessions. Key academic institutions and non-State actors will be invited to co-organize these sessions. Make sure not to miss WONCA's interactive space in the Partners in PHC Transformation section. We invite you to visit our virtual booth to discover more about our Working Parties and Special Interest groups, as well as get the latest updates on our upcoming conference in Sydney, Australia and our organization as a whole.
CONFERENCE The Conference programme is built around plenary and parallel sessions. The Conference will be livestreamed on the online platform in real time. Videos of the sessions will be available asynchronously.
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WONCA AFRICA
73RD WHO AFR REGIONAL COMMITTEE MEETING: GABORONE, BOTSWANA ABOUT THE WHO AFRO REGION 1. The WHO Afro Regional committee for Africa is a yearly event and the 73rd edition was held in Gaborone Botswana 28th August to 1st September 2023. The 72nd edition was held in Lome, Togo Republic in August 2022. Walk The Talk on 27th August 2023– thus preceding commencement of meeting. The participants led by the WHO Leaders & Political leaders of the host country usually participate in this yearly Health Walk. This year it was tagged: WALK THE TALK OR WALK FOR LIFE - Beat Non-Communicable Diseases. I was the 5th edition. The Regional Director of WHO Afro is Dr Matshidiso Moeti from Gaborone Botswana since 2019. She was elected at the 69th meeting that took place in Brazzaville, Social Democratic Republic of Congo. PARTICIPANTS 47 African countries were represented and most of them were the health ministers in their countries as team leads. These are the SA (State Actors), there were many NSA (NonState Actors) which was WONCA category. Many multinational organizations including Bill & Belinda Gates Foundation, USAID, World Bank, Global fund, Rotary International just to mention a few were in attendance. There was a 4- pillar agenda, 9 side events and 3 special events. Opening ceremony was very elaborate with important political leaders of Republic of Botswana present and Led by the president, His Excellency Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, WHO leaders, State Actors and Non State Actors.
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Celebrating 75 years of WHO was an important pat of the meeting. Presentation of national merit award to the Director WHO Afro, Dr. Moeti for exceptional leadership by His Excellency president Massissi of Botswana. All the frame works were presented under the 4 pillars and side events; exhaustively deliberated upon by all interested State Actors and NSAs and adopted. Some of the adopted resolutions are listed below : Framework for implementing the Global strategic directions for nursing and midwifery, 2021–2025 in the WHO African Region was discussed and passed. Framework for sustaining resilient health systems to achieve universal health coverage and promote health security, 2023– 2030 in the WHO African Region. WONCA made a 2-minute contribution. Regional multisectoral strategy to promote health and wellbeing, 2023– 2030 in the WHO African Region adopted. Building a foundation of Africa free of cervical cancer: reaffirming commitments to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem in the African Region adopted. There was an elaborate closing ceremony, a guided tour of interested participants on the last day of meeting on 1st September 2023. All activities went on as planned and timing was excellent. The 74th WHO-Afro Regional Committee meeting will take place at the WHO regional headquarters in Brazzaville, Congo, in August 2024. Remarkably, no country bid to host the 74th edition in 2024. The event was not only well-organized but also a resounding success, showcasing meticulous planning and execution
DR DAN ABUBAKAR, WONCA AFRICA REGION PRESIDENT
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WONCA WP ON ETHICS AND PROFESSIONALISM WONCA SIG ON AGEING AND HEALTH
INSIGHTS: CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS IN AGED CARE The WONCA Working Party on Ethics and Professionalism and the WONCA Special Interest Group on Ageing and Health, hosted a webinar exploring the vital topic of culturally sensitive care for older adults. The discussion, led by expert facilitators Tania Moerenhout and Dimity Pond, delved into the challenges and strategies for ensuring that healthcare meets the unique needs of our aging population. The webinar featured prominent speakers from different parts of the world who shared their insights and experiences. Hakki Demirkapu from Belgium discussed advanced care planning within ethnic minorities and introduced Belgium's innovative culturally sensitive nursing home, specifically tailored for older adults with a Muslim background. Joanna Hikaka from New Zealand focused on Māori elder experiences and expectations in residential and community settings, emphasizing the importance of incorporating cultural values and practices in aged residential care. Danica Rotar Pavlič from Slovenia presented her findings on healthcare for older refugees and shared insights from health professionals working in transit centers. In a rapidly diversifying world, the webinar highlighted the pressing need for culturally safe care in healthcare for older adults. It provided attendees with valuable insights and practical strategies for enhancing primary healthcare services for this demographic. If you missed the live event, you can access the recorded webinar here. This webinar served as a reminder of the significance of culturally sensitive care in today's healthcare landscape, emphasizing the importance of meeting the unique needs of older adults from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Watch here the full session:
TANIA MOERENHOUT WONCA WORKING PARTY ON ETHICS AND PROFESSIONALISM
DIMITY POND WONCA SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP ON AGEING AND HEALTH
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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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JOIN THIS WP
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AUTHOR LEANNE ROWE WRITES ABOUT
EVERY DOCTOR: HEALTHIER DOCTORS = HEALTHIER PATIENTS
Clinical Professor Leanne Rowe, Australian rural general practitioner and past Chairman of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners MEET THE AUTHORS AT
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.
Leanne Rowe and Michael Kidd will be opening the ‘Caring for Caregivers: Prioritising Well-being and Managing Risks in Medicine’ preconference workshop 3 at the RACGP/WONCA conference in Sydney on 25 October 2023.
You do this again the next day and the next.
A 20% Discount Available on Every Doctor by entering the code AFL03 at checkout via www.routledge.com/9781032284323
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. Clearly, this is a blue print for burnout.
Meet the authors at the WONCA World Conference 2023 in Sydney, Australia, where they'll be available at the WONCA Booth on Saturday, October 28th, from 1010:30 a.m
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!
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You can also meet Professor Michael Kidd AO at the WONCA stand to talk about Every Doctor on Saturday, October 28th, from 1010:30 a.m. His key note address entitled ‘Recovery, reconnection and revival. Primary care contributions throughout the COVID-19 pandemic’ is scheduled for 8.55am on Sunday October 29th.
LEANNE ROWE AUTHOR
MICHAEL KIDD AUTHOR
VIHANGI ABEYGUNAW ARDANA AUTHOR
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THE BESROUR CENTRE'S 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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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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MCGILL FMER: 2023-2024 PIERRE PLUYE INTERNATIONAL AWARDS IN FAMILY MEDICINE EDUCATION The McGill Family Medicine Education Research Group (FMER) is proud to announce the sponsorship of the third edition of ‘The Pierre Pluye International Awards in Family Medicine Education’. With these awards, the FMER celebrates the original and influential contribution of Dr. Pierre Pluye, founding member of the research group, to the advancement of mixed methods research and mixed studies reviews in general, and of the family medicine education field of inquiry in particular. These awards are aimed to distinguish the work of promising new researchers committed to the advancement of science in family medicine education research around the world. Two academic awards – one for the best MSc thesis, and one for the best PhD thesis – are granted by an Award FMER Evaluation Committee. The committee includes at least two FMER researchers, and two FMERaffiliated graduate students (one MSc student and one PhD student or candidate).
Applications must include the five documents detailed below. Incomplete applications will be disregarded: 1. A cover letter in which the candidate clearly indicates the award s/he is applying for (MSc or PhD thesis); introduces him/herself, the program and institution in which s/he graduated, as well as his/her research supervisors; and briefly describes the investigation conducted. 2. An abstract of maximum 500 words that summarizes the thesis. Particular attention should be given to the description and justification of the mixed methods (empirical research and/or review) adopted in accordance with GRAMMS (Good Reporting of Mixed Methods Studies), and of the major theoretical, empirical, methodological, and practical contributions to the sciences of family medicine education.
Submission period: July 15 to November 15, 2023. The candidates’ thesis must have been approved for obtaining an MSc or PhD degree no earlier than two academic years prior to submission, i.e., before July 15, 2021. The thesis must meet 3 criteria: Be related to research in family medicine education; Must use mixed methods in empirical research and/or literature review; Be written in English or French. Neither the candidate nor the proponent can be members of the McGill FMER group.
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3. A copy of the approved thesis in PDF format. 4. An updated version of the candidate’s Curriculum Vitae. 5. A letter of support from the candidate’s principal research supervisor (specifying that the thesis has been approved for obtaining an MSc or PhD degree). Application packages should be sent by email to the Director of the McGill FMER, Dr. Charo Rodríguez (charo.rodriguez@mcgill.ca) any time during the four-month application period that, as noted above, will expand from July 15 to November 15, 2023 (deadline).
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ADVANCING FAMILY MEDICINE THROUGH LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT: A PROGRAM FOR EMERGING WOMEN LEADERS COURSE DATES & FORMAT: October 19-December 14, 2023 Hybrid delivery – synchronous and asynchronous content Flipped classroom model | Weekly synchronous content (90 minutes of small group discussion moderated by DFCM faculty) | Weekly asynchronous content for self-study Six synchronous sessions on Thursdays, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM (EST)
AUDIENCE Current or emerging early to mid-career women leaders in family medicine from around the world.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Advancing primary care and family medicine globally requires leadership and advocacy at many levels within a healthcare system. The Department of Family and Community Medicine (DFCM) at the University of Toronto and its international collaborators have played an important role in advancing leadership curriculum at the undergraduate, postgraduate and faculty level. This course will foster leadership development for women emerging into family medicine leadership roles globally as women increasingly represent the majority in family medicine, yet leadership development targeting specifically junior family physician women leaders is lacking. Course participants will develop critical skills to support their leadership journey as they advance the discipline of family medicine, while working together to address the challenges unique to emerging women leaders.
ACCREDITATION AND CERTIFICATE This one-credit-per-hour Group Learning program has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 17.5 Mainpro+ credits. Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive a certificate of completion. You are required to attend 5 out of 6 synchronous sessions and meet minimum participation requirements to receive a certificate.
VISION STATEMENT Family physician women leaders strengthen healthcare systems and communities globally through effective collaborative leadership.
OBJECTIVES By the end of the course, participants will be able to: Reflect on the foundational concepts of physician leadership of self, others and systems. Identify and leverage key enablers that elevate women leaders in primary care, discussed with a gender and culturally contextual lens.
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Acquire skills to master challenges faced by mid-career women family physicians in leading oneself, others, and health systems. Build a community of global women leaders in family medicine by leveraging peer mentorship into a network of support, empowerment, and advancement.
COURSE FRAMEWORK
6 sequential and inter-related sessions: Leading Self –Articulate your own leadership journey Understanding others –Cross-cultural and gender perspectives in leadership development Engaging with others –The power of networks and relationships, excellence in communication Leading others –Managing conflict gracefully Leading Change –Practical tools for effective change management Negotiations –How to achieve a win-win situation For questions, please dfcm.globalhealth@utoronto.ca
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