WONCA News April 2024

REGIONALPRESIDENT,WONCAAFRICA DRJANEFRANCESNAMATOVU(UGANDA)

REGIONALPRESIDENT,WONCAASIAPACIFIC DR BRIANCHANG(TAIWAN)

REGIONALPRESIDENT,WONCAEAST MEDITERRANEAN

DRABDULAZIZMAHMOODNASSERAL-MAHREZI(OMAN)

REGIONALPRESIDENT,WONCAEUROPE PROFSHLOMOVINKER (ISRAEL)

REGIONALPRESIDENT,WONCAIBEROAMERICANACIMF

DRDORAPATRICIABERNALOCAMPO(COLOMBIA)

REGIONALPRESIDENT,WONCANORTHAMERICA DRVICTORKNG(CANADA)

REGIONALPRESIDENT,WONCASOUTHASIA DRKANAPATHIPILLAISRIRANJAN(SRILANKA)

YOUNGDOCTORS'REPRESENTATIVE DRCHANYUENCHINGCHERYL(HONGKONG) WONCACHIEFEXECUTIVEOFFICER

EMAIL:SECRETARIAT@WONCANET PHONE:+32(0)23290075

WONCAEDITOR DIARMUIDHAYES

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Primary Health Care plus Sustainable Health Care will lead to

the WHO goal of Universal Health Coverage.

This was my conclusion after attending a meeting of The Lancet Commission on Sustainable Healthcare, in Singapore, this month

This Lancet Commission is dedicated to facilitating a rapid transition to low-carbon, sustainable,resilienthealthsystemsandIam lucky to be on its Executive Committee. ImmediatePastChairofourWONCAWorking Party on Planetary Health, Enrique Barros (Brazil), is on one of the Commission’s workinggroupsandwasalsopresent

Lancet Commission on Sustainable Healthcare(LCSH)

Sustainable healthcare systems provide universal access to appropriate care that optimises health and wellbeing for patients and communities, as well as for future generations, by delivery of care that is needed, wanted, clinically effective, affordable, equitable, responsible in its use of resources, and functioning within planetaryboundaries

Photo: WONCA President, Karen Flegg with one of our WONCA Planetary Health leaders, Enrique Barros, in Singapore

Sustainable healthcare systems provide universal access to appropriate care that optimises health and wellbeing for patients and communities, as well as for future generations, by delivery of care that is needed, wanted, clinically effective, affordable, equitable, responsible in its use of resources, and functioning within planetaryboundaries

The meeting was a strong reminder of the fact that health care is a major emitter of environmental pollutants that adversely affect health The healthcare industry is responsible for nearly 52% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and similar fractions of toxic air pollutants. Health care pollution harms public health, yet remains under-appreciated and largely unaddressed, despitetheprofessionalmandateto"first,do noharm" Formorefactsseethekeyfindings ofthe2023reportoftheLancetCountdown

World Family Doctor Day 2024 – healthy planet, healthy people

SinceitsdeclarationbyWONCAin2010,FDD has become an annual celebration that recognisesthecentralroleofFamilyDoctors in delivering personal, comprehensive, and continuous health care to patients It’s a chance for all family doctors of the world to celebratewhatwedo

Thisyear’sthemefitsmyown‘green’agenda for WONCA - “healthy planet, healthy people”

This theme highlights the intrinsic connectionbetweenthehealthofourplanet and the well-being of our patients, emphasising the critical role primary healthcarecanplayinpromotingsustainable healthpractices

Familydoctorscanmakearealdifferenceby adopting environmentally friendly practices in their clinics and guiding patients on how to protect their health while also caring for theplanet.

ENRIQUE BARROS - MAKING A DIFFERENCE WITH “ONE MINUTE FOR THE PLANET”

Enrique Barros (pictured overleaf with the president) promotes the concept of “one minute for the planet” with his patients Enrique gives us an example of using this concept:

“Today, while I excised three basal cell carcinomas from a former family farmer, I explained how his cancer was associated with the historical ozone hole above southern Brazil, secondary to pollution Then, I talked about stopping pollution to avoid climate change and worsening storms and landslides in our region. He nodded. It tookmeonlyoneminutefortheplanet.”

WORKING

PARTY ON PLANETARY HEALTH AND WFDD

Our WONCA Working Party on Planetary HealthproposesseveralinitiativesforWFDD. They intend to survey WONCA member organisations (MOs) to understand their contributiontoplanetaryhealth Iencourage allMOrepresentativestorespond

For individuals, the Working Party hopes to collectstoriesonplanetaryhealthactionsin work settings, from family doctors around the world. The aim is to share the best practices related to planetary health among our family doctor community and compile some of the best examples into a book and videos

The Working Party is also moving forward withawebinarseries.

I encourage everyone to get involved and celebrate World Family Doctor Day on May 19 If you want to browse previous years’ reportsforideastheyareavailablehere Here aresomeofmyfavouritepostersfromyears goneby. World

MONTEGUT

SCHOLAR AWARD

SUPPORTED BY THE AMERICAN BOARD OF FAMILY MEDICINE FOUNDATION

We are pleased to announce that the application for the Montegut Global Scholar Program(MGSP),sponsoredbytheAmerican BoardofFamilyMedicineFoundation,isnow open!

The Montegut Global Scholars Program (MGSP) was established by the American BoardofFamilyMedicineFoundation(ABFMF) in 2010 The American Board of Family Medicine(ABFM)isamemberoftheAmerican Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). The ABFM-F is a supporting organisation of the ABFM Its primary mission is to support the ABFM’sresearchandscholarlyactivities

ALAIN MONTEGUT MD

The Montegut Global Scholars Program (MGSP) was established by the ABFM-F in April 2010 It was named in honor of Alain Montegut, MD, a member of the Board of Directors of the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) from 2005-2010 and whose career has been devoted to developing high quality family medicine practice internationally, especially in underserved and/orundevelopedcountries

A PROGRAM FOR WONCA MEETING ATTENDANCE

The MGSP was established to foster international education, research, and collaboration in the specialty of family medicine It will support the attendance of family physicians from Africa, Asia Pacific, EastMediterranean,Europe,Iberoamericana, NorthAmerica,andSouthAsiaRegionsofthe international organization of family physicians (WONCA) to any WONCA regional orrualconferenceof2024

Before making your application for the Montegut Global Scholar Program please reviewtheMGCPPolicies2024

APPLY NOW

TheapplicationdeadlineisMonday15April May 2023. No applications will be accepted afterthedeadline.

Applications will be reviewed by the MGSP Regional Committees and the selected regionalcandidateswillbesharedwithABFM forfinalapprovaloftheScholarshipwinners

As we move closer to World Family Doctor Day (WFDD) on May 19, 2024, our collective effort towards the "Healthy Planet, Healthy People" campaign gains momentum. This initiative is a testament to our commitment as family doctors to not only care for our patientsbutalsofortheplanetthatsustains usall Inthisupdate,weoutlinetheprogress and invite further participation in making a significantimpact

MAIN MESSAGES

1

THE LINK BETWEEN PLANETARY HEALTH AND HUMAN HEALTH

Theintricateconnectionbetweenthehealth ofourplanetandthewell-beingofitspeople cannot be overstated As the Earth faces unprecedented environmental challenges, fromclimatechangetopollutionandhabitat destruction, the repercussions on human health become increasingly dire These environmental changes contribute to a rise in communicable and non-communicable diseases, impact mental health, and exacerbate health disparities By understanding and emphasizing this connection,familydoctorscanplayapivotal role in educating patients and communities about how protecting the environment directly benefits their health. This understanding can inspire changes in lifestyle and community practices that supportbothplanetaryandhumanhealth

2

THE ROLE OF FAMILY DOCTORS IN OBSERVING AND RESPONDING TO CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS.

Familydoctorswitnessthehealthimpactsof climate change firsthand, from increased respiratory illnesses due to pollution to the spread of vector-borne diseases with changing climates. Their observations are crucialforunderstandingandcombatingthe health effects of environmental changes By documenting these impacts and leading by example in sustainable practices, family doctors can make significant contributions tomitigatingclimatechange'shealthrisks

3

SUSTAINABLE HEALTHCARE PRACTICES

Sustainability in healthcare ensures that future generations can access care without depleting the planet's resources. Family doctorscanleadthechargebyadoptingecofriendly practices, reducing waste, and promoting primary care as a sustainable healthcare model Primary care, focused on prevention and efficient management of conditions, minimizes the environmental burden of healthcare. Advocating for these practices, family doctors support a healthcare system that is sustainable, accessible,andequitable

PROGRESS AND UPCOMING INITIATIVES

A video is in production, with collaboration from the secretariat, Working Party on Planetary Health, and the Young Doctors Movement This flagship piece aims to visually communicate our campaign's key messagesandinspireaction.

Webinars and press releases are in the final stages of preparation These will serve as valuable resources for education, engagement, and advocacy, further amplifyingourcampaign'sreach

Thecampaign'sminiwebsiteissettolaunch today, becoming the central hub for information, social media resources, and engagementopportunities

A UNIFIED VOICE ON MAY 19

Wearepoisedtomakearesoundingimpact on May 19, speaking with one voice for the health of our planet and patients The dedication and enthusiasm of our communityarethedrivingforcesbehindthis campaign.

Together, let's inspire change and foster a healthier future for our planet and the communitiesweserve

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: SHARE YOUR IMPACTFUL STORIES FOR WORLD FAMILY DOCTOR DAY 2024

We extend an open invitation for you to contribute your stories on three areas:

Sustainable Healthcare Solutions: Tell us about the eco-friendly practices you've integrated into your healthcare settings, from waste reduction efforts to energy conservation and beyond.

Climate Change and Health: Share insights on how climate change is affecting health within your communities and the measures you're taking to combat these challenges

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health: Highlight your work in promoting biodiversity and safeguarding ecosystem health, both in healthcare environments and the community at large.

Please send your submissions, ranging from 300 to 500 words along with up to three photographs, to communications@wonca.net. Selected stories will be spotlighted across WONCA's social media platforms.

WONCA INTERNATIONAL CLASSIFICATION COMMITTEE: 50+ YEARS REUNION WITH HISTORICAL LEADERS AND FORMER MEMBERS

The WONCA International Classification Committee(WICC)wasestablishedalongside WONCA in 1972 and boasts a history spanning over 50 years. On May 24, from 11:00 to 13:00 CET, we will host a Zoom meeting featuring key leaders who have significantly contributed to this history, including Niels Bentzen, Erik Falko, Marc Jamoulle,ThomasKuehlein,KeesvanBoven, and Juan Gérvas. This meeting offers an invaluable opportunity for those who utilize the classifications to gain deeper insights into their origins Additionally, we will explore the future of this critical domain for familymedicineandpatientcare

Read more about the history of the Wonca International Classification Committee.

Registertoattend thismeeting

Date:24May2024

Time:11:00-13:00(CET) 09:00-11:00(UTC)

PLEASE NOTE: THE LAST E-UPDATE CONTAINED THE WRONG INFO.

CALL FOR NEW MEMBERS

The Wonca International Classification Committee (WICC) was founded in 1972 togetherwithWonca.Throughoutitshistory it has produced and maintained the International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC), developing, and disseminating it throughout the world WICC also developed the Wonca Dictionary for General/Family Practice. WICC has collaborated with many global organisations, particularly with the World Health Organization (WHO). ICPC-2 is a member of the WHO Family of InternationalClassifications

WICCmeetseveryyearandin2024willhave aface-to-facemeetinginNewcastle(United Kingdom)between22and24September.

The world of classifications has changed rapidly with the use of computers in consultations and, more recently, with the use of artificial intelligence Almost every familydoctorisabletouseaclassificationin their health record and we need to be protagonistsinthedecision-makingprocess ofhowdataiscollectedduringconsultations andanalysed That'swhywe'reinvitingyour national association to send a representative as an observer to the WICC annual meeting The scientific program for the meeting will include a historical review of classifications in primary care and future projections

Formoreinformation,pleasecontact GustavoGusso

ChairofWoncaInternationalClassification Committee

gustavo.gusso@usp.br

Professor, Dr Gustavo Gusso WICC Chair

Our esteemed colleague Professor Paul Wallace sadly passed away on 28 February 2024 We offer our condolences to his wife Sabrinaandfamily

Paulwaslovedandrespectedbymany,well known as a general practitioner, as well as academic researcher and teacher. Paul qualifiedasaphysicianin1976,andasaGP in1981,parallellyqualifyinginepidemiology

He became Professor of Primary Care at University College London in 1993 All the time of his academic career, for 30 years, he also took care of patients as a general practitioner,untilhisretirementin2012.

As director of the International Training Course for General Practitioners from 19911997,heformedmanyofthelaterleadersof familymedicineinEurope

To many, including several members of the currentWONCAEuropeexecutiveboard,Paul was a dedicated mentor, always approachable and ready to share his reflectionsandexperience

AspresidentofEGPRNandmanyyearsasan active past president, Paul invested his time and energy into general practice research capacity building on an international scale andinspiredyoungGPresearchers

Later,healsobecamealeaderinbuildingup family medicine in Palestine, involved in the ArabAmericanUniversity

In 2012, he co-founded the Foundation for Family Medicine in Palestine Through the Foundation, Paul has played a major role in developing primary care infrastructure and provisioninanareaindesperateneed.

Paul was a forward-looking pioneer and leader of many developments in general practice and general practice research, for example practice based research networks and digital care interventions, as well as detecting and treating addiction issues in primarycaresettings.

Hewillbemissedandremembered

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN WONCA EUROPE NEWSLETTER

Withdeepsadnessandtears,wemustshare thenewsofMarc'spassing.

A beloved husband, father, and remarkable general practitioner A person where compassion met intellect and empathy intertwinedwithexpertise

Marc was more than just a doctor; he was a beacon of person-centered care, a staunch advocate for the narrative of the patient. In his practice, he held steadfast to the belief that understanding the person behind the illness was paramount to effective healing His patients were not merely cases to be solved but individuals deserving of respect, dignity,andpersonalizedattention.

Marc believed in using both evidence-based medicine and thoughtful reflectionHe understoodtheimportanceofdatabut

also recognized its limitations With an unwavering commitment to his patients' well-being, Marc combined the rigors of science with the art of listening, ensuring that a treatment plan was tailored to the unique needs and preferences and approval ofthoseunderhiscare

Beyond his clinical duties, Marc was deeply engaged in the advancement of registration andclassificationinthefieldofprimarycare. As a long-standing member of the WONCA International Classification Committee, he playedapivotalroleinshapingthefutureof medical classification His dedication to the development of ICPC3 exemplified his tireless efforts to ensure that primary care physicians had access to accurate and comprehensive diagnostic tools, enhancing the quality of care delivered to patients worldwide

InMarc'spassing,wemournnotonlytheloss of a skilled physician but also a compassionate healer, a mentor, and a friend. His absence leaves a void in our hearts Yet, as we reflect on his life and legacy, we are reminded of the profound impacthehadonthosefortunateenoughto havecrossedpathswithhim

Rest in peace, dear Marc. Your legacy will continuetoinspiretheboundsofmedicine.

OnbehalfofWICC, DiegoSchrans

OnbehalfoftheWONCAICPCFoundation, KeesVanBoven

ADVANCING WOMEN'S EXCELLENCE IN FAMILY MEDICINE: A LEADERSHIP PROGRAM FOR EMERGING LEADERS

Worldwide, women increasingly represent the majority in family medicine, yet global leadership development targeting specifically junior family physician women leaders is lacking. This course will foster leadership development for women emerging into family medicine leadership rolesglobally

Courseparticipantswilldevelopcriticalskills 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

When:Oct24–Dec12,2024–deliveredin6, 90-minutesynchronoussessions

Delivery: Hybrid – synchronous and asynchronouscontent.

Includes:

Flippedclassroommodel

Weekly synchronous content (90 minutes of small group discussion moderated by DFCM faculty, Thursdays, 8:00AM–9:30AMEST)

Weekly asynchronous content for selfstudy

Who: Current or emerging early to midcareer women leaders in family medicine fromaroundtheworld REGISTER

For more information, please contact Jamie Rodas,MPHdfcmglobalhealth@utorontoca

GlobalHealthandSocialAccountability DepartmentofFamilyandCommunityMedicine FacultyofMedicine,UniversityofToronto

WEBINAR: MY FIRST YEAR AS A GRADUATE AND MY WORK ENVIRONMENT

Join us for an enriching panel discussion on "My first year as a graduate and my work environment," featuring experiences from recent graduates Save the date for April 13, 2024, at 16:00 GMT, and connect with us on Facebook to be part of the conversation. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights and advice!

SATURDAY 13 APRIL 2024

CHILE 13:00 HRS

COLOMBIA 11:00 HRS

COSTA RICA 10:00 HRS

CUBA 12:00 HRS

BOLIVIA 12:00 HRS

BRAZIL 13:00 HRS

ECUADOR 11:00 HRS

MEXICO 10:00 HRS

PERU 11:00 HRS

URUGUAY 13:00 HRS

WATCH ON FACBOOK

Enhance your communication expertise in healthcare with EACH: International Association for Communication in Healthcare's latest educational offerings. Dive into our comprehensive, cost-free webinars or engage in structured courses tailoredforhealthcareprofessionals

UpcomingHighlightsApril2024

16thApril:JoinourHCERwebinartoexplore thegapbetweencommunicationskillstaught and those applied in clinical settings, particularlywhendeliveringdifficultnews

16th April: Discover the catalysts of international collaborations in our rEACH ConnectivityWebinarSeries

MarkYourCalendarsSeptember2024

9th-13th September: Don’t miss the International Conference on CommunicationinHealthcare2024

25th-28th September: Be part of the WONCAEuropeConference

MINDFUL LIVING: NCD PREVENTION IN EUROPE

WORLD PATIENTS ALLIANCE

On17April,1:00PMUTC,theWorldPatients Alliance will host a webinar on combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through mindful living. This session will delve into lifestyle medicine's essential role in preventing NCDs, highlighting the importance of diet, physical activity, mental health, and effective patient-doctor communication

Learn from experts like Arnout Wouters (Diabetes Liga), Professor Wojciech Drygas (National Institute of Cardiology, Warsaw Poland), Jolanta Bilińska (World Patients Alliance) and our own Joao Sequeira Carlo (WONCASpecialInterestGrouponNCDs)and discover how patient organizations contributetodiabetesprevention Joinusto explore strategies for a healthier, NCD-free future.

Register today to be part of this insightful discussion

WONCA SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP ON NCDs

“WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU TO WHAT PROMISES TO BE AN ENLIGHTENING AND ENGAGING CONFERENCE ”

Fatima Zohra MCHICH ALAMI President of the National Collective of General Practitioners of Morocco

JOAO SEQUEIRA CARLOS (Portugal) Co-convenor

WHO TOOLKIT FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS: COMMUNICATING ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND HEALTH

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently unveiled a significant resource, "Communicating on Climate Change and Health: Toolkit for Health Professionals," a timely release as we approach WorldFamilyDoctorDayonMay19 Thisyear,the dayisdedicatedtothethemeofPlanetaryHealth, highlighting the critical intersection of global environmental conditions and human health The toolkitisespeciallyrelevant,providinghealthand careworkerswithcrucialinsightsandstrategiesto navigate conversations around climate change, a pressingissueinplanetaryhealth

Dr. Maria Neira, from WHO's Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Health, underscored the pivotal role of health professionals in the climate dialogue during the toolkit's launch. She emphasized their trusted status in society and the imperative to leverage this trust to elevate awareness and advocacy aroundclimatechange,makingitclearthatthisis verymuchwithintheirsphereofinfluence

Echoing the urgency of the situation, Remy Shergill of Australia's Climate and Health Alliance introduced the toolkit by reiterating the dual nature of climate change as both the foremost global health threat of our century and the most significant health opportunity She addressed concerns about health professionals discussing climate change without being climate scientists, reassuring them of their authority to talk about publichealthchallenges Shergill'smessagealigns withthethemeofPlanetaryHealth,advocatingfor healthasapowerfullensthroughwhichtoengage withclimatechangeissues

The toolkit is crafted to be accessible and actionoriented, providing practical advice rather than a dense academic review It encourages health professionalstotailortheirclimatechange

communications to various audiences, whether they're speaking to colleagues, policymakers, or patients The guide underscores the importance of simplicity, relevance to local contexts, and the avoidance of jargon. It also highlights the potential for climate action to foster health benefits, advocatingforstorytellingandpositiveengagement toconnectwithandempoweraudiences

BURSARY UBUNTU 2024

The organizing committee for Ubuntu 2024 invites you to apply for assistance to cover yourregistrationfee(ONLY) Accommodation andtravelexpensesareexcludedandwillbe theresponsibilityoftheperson

The Office of the Secretariat will register successful applications; no funds will be distributed to individuals To ensure your final registration, you must submit evidence of lodging and transport You will need to bring your passport and an authorized VISA (ifnecessary).

Closingdateforapplications:12May2024

APPLY

UBUNTU PODCAST

www.ubuntu2024.com

8TH WONCA AFRICA REGION CONFERENCE

NAIROBI,KENYA.5-7JUNE2024

STANDARD REGISTRATION CLOSES 30 APRIL 2024

"Together, we will beat the drum of transformation, and the rhythm of our collective efforts will echo across the African continent. Welcome (Karibu) the 8th WONCA Africa Region Conference, at the Emara OleSereni Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya."

DR.JOYK.MUGAMBI, FAMILYPHYSICIAN, CHAIRKENYAASSOCIATION OFFAMILYPHYSICIANS, CHAIR8THWONCAAFRICA CONFERENCE2024,

WONCA ASIA PACIFIC CONFERENCE 2024 SINGAPORE

Join us at the WONCA APR Conference 2024 in Singapore from August 21-24, to explore thelatestinFamilyMedicine

Connect with healthcare professionals and immerse in a multicultural experience while delvingintoprimarycareinnovations.

Thethemeforthisyear’sConferenceis“Art& Science of Family Medicine” as we aim to focusonthemyriadwaysofapproachingand practisingFamilyMedicine,whichwillenable us to provide the best all-round care for our patients.

EarlyBirdRegistrationisopenuntil1July 2024.

Don’t miss out on the premier event for familydoctorsinAsia-Pacific!

DRWONGTIENHUA PRESIDENT COLLEGE OF FAMILY PHYSICIANSSINGAPORE

WONCA EUROPE CONFERENCE: ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE EXTENDED

Wearepleasedtoannouncethattheabstract submission deadline has been extended, giving you more time to present your research Take advantage of the extended deadlineandsubmityourabstracttoday!

Thereviseddeadlineforabstractsubmission isnow22April2024.

Additionally, we're thrilled to announce the first keynote speakers for WONCA Europe Conference 2024 in Dublin: Dr. Karen Flegg, Prof. María Pilar Astier-Peña, Prof. Susan Smith, and Prof Shlomo Vinker Each brings a wealth of experience in family medicine, promising vibrant discussions and valuable insightsintothefield'sevolvingnature

25 - 28 SEPTEMBER 2024. DUBLIN, IRELAND.

WISHING OUR COLLEAGUES IN THE SOUTH ASIA REGION A SUCCESSFUL CONFERENCE IN COLOMBO, SRI LANKA!

03 - 05 MAY 2024

WONCA South Asia Region Conference 2024

COLOMBO, SRI LANKA

05 - 08 JUNE 2024

8th WONCA Africa Region Conference 2024

NAIROBI, KENYA

21 - 24 AUGUST 2024

WONCA Asia Pacific Region Conference 2024

SINGAPORE

10 - 13 SEPTEMBER 2024

WONCA Rural - Ubuntu 2024

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

25 - 28

SEPTEMBER 2024

29th WONCA Europe Conference 2024

DUBLIN, IRELAND

OCTOBER 2024

WONCA East Mediterranean Conference 2024

LOCATION TBC

24 - 26

OCTOBER 2024

WONCA Iberoamerican - CIMF Region Conference 2024

PAMANA CITY, PANAMA

WONCA YOUNG DOCTOR MOVEMENT NEWSLETTER

Wehavesomeexcitingupdatesandnewsto share with all of you regarding the recent activities of the WONCA Young Doctor Movement(YDM)

LEADERSHIP TRANSITION

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr Sankha Randenikumara for hisdedicatedserviceastheYDMlead Weare pleased to announce that Dr Chan Yuen Ching, Cheryl, from Hong Kong, has taken over as the new YDM lead We warmly welcome Dr. Chan and look forward to her valuablecontributions.

WONCA SYDNEY PRECONFERENCE

We are delighted to inform you that the WONCA Sydney Preconference was successfully held just before the WONCA World Conference. The event had an overwhelming response from the young doctorsaroundtheglobeandwasfilledwith insightful discussions, engaging sessions, andnetworkingopportunities

The YDM preconference consisted of showcasing YDM activities of all regions, experience sharing by senior colleagues and parallelworkshops Oneofthehighlightswas the YDM market place, which provided a platform for young doctors to connect with WONCA working parties (WPs) and special interest groups (SIGs) to get engage with theirinnovativeideasandprojects

SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE

To enhance our communication and engagement with young doctors worldwide, we have created a new Instagram page named"woncaydm".Welcometofollowusif youhaven’t!

Photos: Cheryl and Sankha. YDM at Sydney pre-conference

New YDM Committee for 2023-2025 biennium

DR CHAN YUEN CHING CHERYL

DR MERCY WANJALA

DR ADEL YASKY

DR STUART HOLMES

DR BRUNEE DORSETT

DR CHANG PINGHSUN

DR KINLEY BHUTI

DR BRANDO CANTU

WONCA YOUNG DOCTORS’ REPRESENTATIVE

AFRIWON RENAISSANCE MOVEMENT REPRESENTATIVE

AL-RAZI MOVEMENT REPRESENTATIVE

EUROPEAN YOUNG FAMILY DOCTORS’ MOVEMENT (EYFDM) REPRESENTATIVE

POLARIS MOVEMENT REPRESENTATIVE

THE RAJAKUMAR MOVEMENT (TRM) REPRESENTATIVE

TREASURER & SPICE ROUTE MOVEMENT (SRM) REPRESENTATIVE

SECRETARY & WAYNAKAY MOVEMENT REPRESENTATIVE

CHANGE OF ASPIRE CHAIR

WewouldliketoexpressourgratitudetoDr. Uma Senthilkumar for her outstanding leadership as the ASPIRE Chair We are pleasedtoannouncethatDr BeesanMaraqa has been approved as the new ASPIRE Chair by the YDM committee Congratulations, Dr Maraqa,onyournewrole!

WONCA MEMBERSHIP PORTAL

To streamline our membership processes and facilitate better communication, YDM is going to open their group on the WONCA Membership Portal soon to the membership of regional YDMs. We have conducted WONCA membership portal training for all regionalchairsbynowandreadytowelcome members

We have conducted WONCA membership portal training for all regional chairs by now and ready to welcome members We have sent invitations to young doctors in different YDM regions to join the WONCA portal The portal will serve as a unique socialmediaplatformtotheyoungdoctors to communicate effectively, share information and also as a resource repository

Photo: Dr Beesan Maraqa (Palestine) , ASPIRE Chair

APPOINTMENT OF NEW YOUNG DOCTOR LIAISONS

We are pleased to announce the appointment of two more young doctors as liaisons for specific Working Parties. Dr. Nathaly Velasquez (Peru) has been appointed as the YD liaison for WP on Planetary Health, and Dr Avni Patel (Malaysia) has been appointed as the YD liaisonforWPonEthicsandProfessionalism. We congratulate both of them on their new roles and wish them success in their endeavors

ADVOCACY

I am happy to share some recent advocacy efforts by the YDM team. Our representative Dr Cheryl Chan attended a meeting with the UNODCAccesstocontrolledmedicinesteam on 16th January 2024 The focus of the meeting was on establishing the Young Doctors' Network to address the current situation surrounding controlled medicines and barriers to access. Furthermore, Dr Cheryl Chan delivered an online lecture at theFamilyMedicineResidencyConferencein Mexico on 24th January 2024, emphasising theroleoffamilyphysiciansasthecentreof healthcare

Dr Avni Patel (Malaysia), YD liaison for WP on Ethics and Professionalism

ASCO INTERVIEW

Dr Chan had the opportunity to represent youngfamilydoctorsinaninterviewwiththe AmericanSocietyofClinicalOncology(ASCO)

Regional Leadership Development: Asia

Pacific

Theinterviewdiscussedaprojecton general practitioner training for improving cancer diagnosis and care in developing countriesintheAsiaPacificregion

Dr. Nathaly Velasquez (Peru), YD liaison for WP on Planetary Health

EYFDM UPDATE

OCTOBER 2023 – MARCH 2024

PARTICIPATION IN WONCA WORLD AND THE YDM PRE-CONFERENCE, OCTOBER 2023

Around 20 EYFDM members attended WONCA World and the YDM pre-conference in Sydney, Australia in October 2023. We were well represented in the scientific programmewithEYFDMmembersdelivering many workshops, oral presentations, and posters

NEW SHOOTS FOR EXCHANGES

Eight EYFDM members have done reciprocal exchanges within Europe over this period, the UK hosted a conference exchange for EYFDM members and we have arranged the first FM 360 inter-continental exchange (Sweden-Sri Lanka) since the Covid-19 pandemic EYFDM has also restarted the Bridge Project, to connect young doctors across borders to work on areas of shared interest.

PLANNING FOR THE YEAR AHEAD

ONLINE MEETING OF EYFDM COUNCIL IN JANUARY 2024

The EYFDM Executive met in Istanbul, Turkiye in November 2023 to plan our activityfortheyearahead Thiswasafruitful weekend, and we also had the privilege to meet some Turkish EYFDM members for a lovelymeal

The EYFDM council, comprising national representatives from each country in the European region, met online in January 2024. We caught up, discussed upcoming events and chose the location for our 9th Forum,whichwilltakeplaceintheGrand Régioninspring2025 Thisforumwillbea collaboration between EYFDM members fromLuxembourg,FranceandGermany,

and will take place over a weekend with a foot in each of these three countries. Surely an event not to miss, put the date in your diarynow(25-27April2025)!

PLANNING FOR OUR NEXT EVENT

EYFDM’s next event is our 8th Forum, taking placeinVienna,Austriaon12-13thApril2024

We are planning for an EYFDM council meetingwhichwilltakeplacethen,aswellas a pre-conference exchange and the Forum itself,whichwillbeinspiringandinvigorating

Regional YDM leads at the pre-conference in Sydney, October 2023

EYFDM Executive at our planning weekend in Istanbul, November 2023.

Photo: EYFDM online council meeting, January 2024.

DECEMBER 2023 – FEBRUARY 2024 UPDATE

ACTIVITIES FOR THE PERIOD

Waynakay Movement Panamá was present during the activities for the Seminar for medicalstudentsinNovember2023andthe UP-MedicineStudentCongress2023.

LastyeartheWaynakayMovementArgentina collaboratedintheplanningfortheNational Residents Gathering carried out by Family Medicine residents from the province of Misiones One of the members, participated in Sydney 2023, for the WONCA rising star award.

Waynakay Movement Peru participated recentlyinamedicalbrigadewasprovidedin a solidarity medical campaign for the Holidays Christmas with the support of the social actors of the population of San Jerónimo–Huancayo–Junín Ourmembers participated in the presentation of research posters during the International Congress of FamilyMedicineDominicanRepublic.

Some of the latest activities for Waynakay Movement Ecuador include Virtual Library Update - Resource under the academic commission, updating an Academic Blog, along with the presence of international meetings with the Waynakay Movement Research Group in order to actively participate in research processes with our specialtypeers

REVIEW OF THE MOVEMENTS

Waynakay Movement Panamá began activitiesduring2010

Waynakay Movement Argentina has been working hard on grouping Argentinian Family Medicine YDM seeking excellence in thepracticeofthespecialty.

Waynakay Movement Peru began activities during 2010 Their mission: strengthen the specialty of Family Medicine in Peru, promoting leadership, medical education, researchandexchangeofyoungdoctors

Waynakay Movement Ecuador was born on April 13, 2018 in the city of Quito, Ecuador, within the framework of the “I International Congress of Family Medicine”, organized by theSEMF

Ameyali Waynakay México began activities during 2010 at a National Family Medicine MedicalResidentsSymposium.

These last months, Ameyali Waynakay México has continued with the monthly sessions, focused on the first level of care, with the participation of family doctors and otherspecialists 7newmembershavebeen included in our workforce, thanks to the efforts of the recruitment commission; a great alliance with the Mexican Association of General Medicine and Familiar A.C., has been made. And we will be aiding the organization for the National Family MedicineSymposiumfor2024and2025

Dr Brando Cantu Chair, Waynakay Movement

OCTOBER 2023 – MARCH 2024

PARTICIPATION IN WONCA WORLD AND THE YDM PRE-CONFERENCE, OCTOBER 2023

GPs around the world attended WONCA World Conference at Sydney, Australia in October 2023. We had many of our colleagues from our regions representing us at the YDM pre-conference We were well representedinthescientificprogrammewith Spice Route members delivering many oral presentationsandposters.

FORMING A TEAM

A dynamic team is very important for any organisation or council. Likewise as all our previous members were graduating from young doctors (within the 5 years from MDGP), we had to form a new dynamic council members Afterthesuccessfulnominationof council members, we had our first council meeting on 27th January where we discussedandstartedplanningbyallocating important world Health Day celebrations to eachcountry

REVIVING OUR WEBSITE

The regional chair, web/image coordinator and volunteer web designers met several times virtually and are working closely for reviving and renewingourSpiceRoutewebsite

wwwspicerouteorg

UPCOMING WONCA SAR CONFERENCE

SRI LANKA, MAY 2024

We are also closely working with our Past YDM leadsfortheupcomingYDMPre-conferenceatSri Lanka SAR WONCA Conference May 2024. We are looking forward for a fruitful session and learn eachotherfromthesharingofexperiences

Photo: Spice Route members at the preconference in Sydney, October 2023

Spice Route SAR council members

AL-RAZI MOVEMENT UPDATE

OCTOBER 2023 – MARCH 2024

COUNCIL MEETING AND ELECTION OF NEW CHAIR

The Al-Razi Executive Council convened in November 2023 to announce the outcomes of the recent nominations and to proceed with the election of the new chair for the Young Doctors' Movement (YDM). With two candidatesnominated,thecouncilmembers cast their votes to determine the new leadership

InDecember,itwaswithgreatpleasurethat we announced Dr. Adel Yasky from Saudi Arabia as the newly elected chair of Al-Razi YDMforthe2023-2025biennium Dr Adelhas been serving as the Saudi Arabian representative since 2018 and took on the roleofYDMsecretaryin2021,showcasinghis dedication and commitment to the movement.

ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEW SECRETARY (VICE CHAIR)

Dr Marwa Al Raisi from Oman has been elected as the vice chair for the 2023-2025 biennium Representing Oman, Dr Marwa has been an active and effective member of theYDMsince2022,contributingsignificantly toitsinitiatives.

EXECUTIVE COUNCIL FORMULATION

We are pleased to announce the new executive council for the YDM, consisting ofthefollowingdistinguishedmembers:

ViceChair:Dr MarwaAlRaisi(Oman)

Treasurer: Dr Adnane Alaoui Ismaili (Morocco)

Members:

Dr BessanMaraqa(Palestine)

Dr.YusufAl-Tahoo(Bahrain)

Dr.OlaSuleiman(Syria)

Dr.HaneenTaher(Jordan)

Immediate Past Chair: Dr Anas Almohtaseb(Jordan)

ASPIRE PROGRAM LEADERSHIP

The ASPIRE program, an initiative of the Young Doctors' Movement (YDM), was launched with the goal of enhancing the connectionsofyoungfamilydoctorswiththe global family medicine community This enhancement comes through a variety of channels, including educational workshops, conferences,andresearchactivities

NEW ASPIRE PROGRAM WORLDWIDE LEAD

Dr Bessan Maraqa from Palestine has been nominatedandapprovedasthenewASPIRE program worldwide lead. Dr. Maraqa is expected to continue her outstanding contributions and leadership efforts in this vitalrole

REGIONAL ASPIRE LEAD

Dr Daniyah Al-Ghaithi from Saudi Arabia has been nominated for the position of regional Al-Razi YDM representative, promising to bringfreshperspectivesandleadershiptothe role.

6TH MOROCCAN MEDICINE IN ARABIC CONFERENCE

The 6th Moroccan Medicine in Arabic Conference was held on 1-2 March in Agadir.Theconferenceaimedtobridgethe gap between Medicine and the Arabic language, fostering discussions and collaborations that highlight the importance of linguistic accessibility in healthcare

Photo: Dr Adel Yasky (Saudi Arabia), chair of Al-Razi Movement, 2023 - 2025

AFRIWON MOVEMENT UPDATE

AFRIWON PRE-CONFERENCE ON EMERGENCY MEDICINE AT THE 8TH WONCA AFRICA REGIONAL CONFERENCE

Afriwon Renaissance, under the aegis of WONCAAfricaandinconcertwiththeSpecial Interest Group for Emergency Medicine, is excited to invite young and future general practitioners/family physicians to a transformative one-day pre-conference focused on Emergency Medicine (Young doctors refer to those within 5 years after postgraduate training in general practice of FamilyMedicine)

This event is designed to empower young family doctors and trainees with essential skills and knowledge in emergency medical care,enhancingtheirabilitytoprovideswift and efficient response in urgent care situations Scheduled for June 5th, 2024, from 9 am to 3 pm, the pre-conference will precede the 8th WONCA Africa Region Conference in Nairobi. It will feature intensive workshops on Point of Care Ultrasound(POCUS),ECGinterpretation,and Mass Casualty Incident Management, led by expertsinthefield

Join us for this dynamic session to sharpen your emergency medicine skills, network withpeers,andgaininvaluableinsightsfrom seasoned practitioners Together, we aim to improve urgent care delivery and patient outcomes across the Africa Region The preconference will feature three intensive workshops designed to cover essential aspects of emergency medicine that are pivotalforyoungfamilydoctors:

1

POINT OF CARE ULTRASOUND (POCUS) ECHO MODULES

Thisworkshopwillprovidehands-ontraining in the use of point-of-care ultrasound, focusingonechocardiographymodulestoaid in the rapid assessment and diagnosis of patients.

2

ECG: MOST THREATENING RHYTHMS FOR THE FAMILY DOCTOR

Participants will learn to identify and manage the most life-threatening cardiac rhythms, with practical sessions on ECG interpretation and emergency interventions.

Please follow this link to register your interest in the preconference as slots are limited:

3

MASS CASUALTY INCIDENT MANAGEMENT

This session aims to prepare doctors for mass casualty incidents, focusing on triage, emergency response coordination, and effectivemanagementstrategiestooptimise patientoutcomesindisasterscenarios.

AFRIWON FAMILY MEDICINE AND PRIMARY HEALTH CARE OBSERVERSHIP/FIELD VISITS

Kenya has undertaken various policy and system re-orientation and implementation to scale up Family Medicine and Primary Health Care. This observership is an opportunity to learn about the Primary Health Care Networks, Family Medicine TrainingandPracticeinboththeprivateand publicsectorsinKenya

Please follow this link to register your interest and details for planning purposes, slotsarelimited:

REGISTER HERE

EDUCATION AND TRAINING THEME GROUP

Dedicated to advancing education in Family Medicine, AfriWon ETG organizes monthly virtual meetings to foster knowledge transfer and share experiences in Family Medicine Across the Region These sessions cover topics such as Clinical Audit, Scientific Writing, Teaching Methods, and Assessment Techniques in Medical Education Additionally, monthly CPD sessions are conducted, featuring MCQs in Family Medicine,contributingsignificantlytotheprofessionaldevelopmentofmembers

In2024,ledbyDrOlubukolaSalamthemeetingscontinueandallarewelcometojoineveryfourthThursdayofthemonthat6pmGMT,as perschedulebelow:

22nd February 2024

DrSpyridonAntoniosGiannakis/DrEdwinaAddoOpare-Lokko

HistoricaloverviewofFamilyMedicinespecialisation

28th March 2024

DrMercy/DrMosa

Humanresourcesforhealth

25th April 2024

DrTijaniOseni/DrKabonaAnna

Monitoringandevaluationforhealthsystemsstrengthening

30th May 2024

DrRamatuAgbede/DrFrancisAddai

EffectiveCommunicationinFamilyMedicine

27th June 2024

DrStephenEngmann/DrJamesIbuaku

Mentoringinanacademiccareer

25th July 2024

DrOlubukolaSalam//DrSamuelAteya

Telemedicine:TheInfluenceonFMEducation&Training

29th August 2024

DrEnwongoEttang/DrAmosMailosi

TheGuidingPrinciplesinClinicalCaseReport

26th September 2024

DrJoyceKaluAmooah/DrKaladeRichard

Challengesofclinicalpracticeinalowresourcesettingandtheway forward:ImpactonFMTraining&Practice

31st October 2024

DrCharlesItegi/DrBiliganSagno-Korha

ArtificialIntelligence:TheInfluenceandImpactonFMTraining&Practice

28th November 2024

DrSowandeAyokunmi/DrMachuorDaniel

TheroleofFamilyPhysiciansinachievinguniversalhealthcoverageinLMIC

17th December 2024

DrMercy/DrElebiyoTemitope

Entrepreneurshipinmedicalpractice

MEETING LINK

THE RAJAKUMAR MOVEMENT UPDATE

APRIL 2023 - APRIL 2024

It was another fruitful and productive year forTheRajakumarMovement(TRM) Wehad our regular meetings to discuss, plan and organize many activities specially for our youngdoctorsintheAsiaPacificRegion.

We participated and supported the WONCA YDM-WP/SIGCollaborativeWebinarWebinar #3 on Education: Prospectives Around the Regions, hosted by Al-Razi MovementandWorkingPartyonEducation. DrAneesaAbdulRashidsharedonthewhile Dr Chole Chan assisted as the translator for ChineseMandarin

We participated and supported the WONCA YDM–WP/SIGCollaborativeWebinarWebinar #4 on Digital Health: Role in Family Medicine, hosted by Polaris and Working PartyoneHealth.

We successfully conducted the first Family Medicine Learning Session: The PatientCentered, Family-Focused, and CommunityOriented (PFC) Approach hosted by The Philippine Academy of Family Physicians Resident’sOrganizationon29April2023.The session was delivered by Dr Kashmir Mae Engada, Family and Community Medicine Specialist,LifestyleMedicinePhysician

We participated and supported the WONCA YDM - WP/SIG Collaborative Webinar - Webinar #5 on Health Equity Around the World, hosted by Spice Route Movement and Special Interest Group on HealthEquity

We participated and supported the WONCA YDM - WP/SIG Collaborative Webinar-Webinar#6onTheRoleofYoungFamilyDoctorsinAddressing Rural Health Challenges, hosted by Afriwon, Rural Seeds and Working PartyonRuralPractice

We celebrated the World Family Doctor Day 2023 with poster displaying photos withheartsign

We successfully conducted the second Family Medicine Learning Session The topic was Transforming Healthcare Delivery through Digital Health and AI in Primary Care. It was hosted by TRM Malaysia in collaboration with The AcademyofFamilyPhysiciansofMalaysia and Malaysian Family Medicine Specialists’ Association It was an insightfulandwonderfulsharingbyallthe distinguishedspeakers-DrMuhamadIrfan Yasin,DrAvniPatel,DrThungSenkChung, DrKevLimandDatukDrNorFarizaNgah Amongtheinterestingtechnologiesbeing shared were Diabetes Lifestyle Program (DLP),AutismVirtualEarlyScreeningTool (AVEST),QuitASAP,MyNNJCalculator,MCHAT,qmedCopilotandDrMATA.

TRM Rising Star Award 2023 Nomination was successfully carried out by Dr Yong KuiChoon(Albert)fromMalaysiaemerged asthewinner

THE RAJAKUMAR MOVEMENT IN SYDNEY

WONCA YDM Pre-Conference was successfully held during the WONCA World Conference in Sydney on 25th October 2023 after months of preparation and planning by the organizing committee.

Special thanks to Dr Phoebe Holdenson Kimura, Dr Wee Sian Woon and young doctors (Dr Rob Chatterji, Dr Bosco Wu, Dr Jun Parker) from Australiawhowerethemainpillars

Associate Professor Dr Karen Flegg, WONCA President-Elect welcomed young doctors from around the world followed by acknowledgement of county by Prof Dr Bad Murphy and special performanceonDidgeridoobyWilliamBarton Dr Anna Stavdal, WONCA President gave her openingmessageandstressedontheimportance of building young doctors who will be the future leadersinWONCA

YDM lead and all the seven YDM Chairs shared the updates on their regional activities. In the plenary session, Prof Dr MichaelKiddsharedgoodtipsonhowtobe successfulincareer

This was followed by the following programmes - YDM global projects and affiliates, small group discussions on family medicine around the world: the strengths, challenges and sharing best practices, parallel interactive workshops and YDM Marketplace: networking with WONCA WorkingPartiesandSpecialInterestGroups TocapoffthePre-Conference,anetworking cocktailandcanapéeventwasheld.

OtherthanthePre-Conference,variousother networking activities were organized The youngdoctorsenjoyedeverymomentofit

Apart from that, TRM also presented and participated in many workshops during the WONCA World Conference. TRM assisted in manningtheYDMboothtoo

TRMwouldliketocongratulateDrChanYuen Ching (Cheryl) on the appointment as the YDM Lead, Dr Yong Kui Choon (Albert) on winning the Rising Star Award and Dr Mel AnthonyAcuaveraonreceivingtheMontegut ScholarAward.

With the conclusion of WONCA World Conference, it marks the beginning of new TRMExecutiveCommitteelineupleadbyDr Chang Ping Hsun for the term 2023-2025 TRM would like to thanked all the outgoing Executive Committee for their contribution andextendbestwishestothenewExecutive Committee.

We successfully conducted the third Family Medicine Learning Session. It was hosted by TRM Malaysia in collaborationwithTheAcademyofFamilyPhysiciansof Malaysia and Malaysian Family Medicine Specialists’ Association InobservanceofInternationalMen'sHealth Month, a series of webinars on Men's Health in Primary Care was organized, spanning over three weeks with weekly webinar series The response and active participation from the attendees were exceptionally positive, further underscoring the success of these initiatives

Currently we're preparing for the exciting event of WONCA2024APRconferenceinSingapore.Wewelcome all young doctors from the world to join us, to see the passionateandvigorousprogressinfamilymedicineand primarycarefieldoftheAsia-Pacificregion!

Reported by Chang Ping Hsun, Chair of The Rajakumar Movement (pictured) and Wong Ping Foo, Immediate Past Chair of The Rajakumar Movement

Your Polaris Executive Committee

As the vibrant energy of spring breathes new life into the world, WONCA Polaris is thrilled to unveil its incoming Executive Board Members We bring a unique blend of expertise and enthusiasm to our roles within the region’s Young Doctors’ Movement. But beyond our contributions, we warmly invite you to join us in shaping the vibrant tapestry of interregional Family Medicine culture

United under the banner of Polaris, young family doctors from Canada, the USA, and the Caribbean stand poised on the brink of boundless potential. Together, we possess a wealth of collective strengths, skills, and passions waiting to be harnessed as catalysts for progress within the Family Medicine community

So, seize the opportunity to become an active participant in our journey Whether you ’ re a medical student, Family Medicine resident, or young Family Physician, your voice matters. Let’s collaborate, innovate, and propel WONCA Polaris to new heights of fulfillment and impact Together, we can illuminate the path forward for Family Medicine, guiding it towards a brighter, more inclusive future. Join us, and let’s make a difference, one step at a time.

Introducing the Polaris Executive Committee

BRUNÈE DORSETT, MD, a committed Family Physician in Nassau, The Bahamas, earned degrees from Acadia University and The University of the West Indies. She champions preventive health and wellness advocacy in her community Actively involved in physician well-being and leadership, Brunèe serves as Chair of WONCA Polaris and Young Doctor’ Movement representative for WONCA Working Parties on Education and Women in Family Medicine. In her leisure, she enjoys playing the piano, snorkeling, and creative brainstorming

SANITA BELGRAVE-KING, MD, is a highly respected Family Medicine and Geriatric Specialist based in New Providence, The Bahamas. Beginning her medical journey at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barbados, she quickly distinguished herself, earning the title of Outstanding Intern of the Year in 2013 With six degrees, four Distinctions, and one Honors, including a Doctorate in Family Medicine, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her practice Dr Belgrave-King has remained dedicated to serving others, aiming to establish a legacy where care transcends generations. She serves as the WONCA Polaris Vice Chair.

ROHINI PASRICHA, MD, former Chair and current secretary of WONCA

Polaris, is a final-year Family Medicine Resident in Toronto, Canada She plans to pursue a Fellowship in hospitalist medicine and has interests in Palliative Care, Preventative Medicine, and academics Beyond her clinical work, Rohini is actively involved in leadership roles within her local and national medical committees. Outside of medicine, she enjoys sports and travel and has set a personal goal to climb Mount Kilimanjaro

MARIA A BIANCHI, MD, is a committed Family Medicine Resident Physician at The University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics Hailing from Caracas, Venezuela, her passion lies in effecting positive change within underserved communities and fostering inclusivity on a global scale Maria holds the esteemed position of AAFP Resident Member to the Center for Global Health Initiatives while also serving as the Resident Representative for the Global Health Member Interest Group. She serves as the Polaris representative for the WONCA Young Doctors’ Movement ASPIRE committee

Our Polaris Projects Updates

We have been determined and busy these past few months working on new projects to serve you Check out these updates!

PolaRISE Mentorship Program - We launched on 24th February with a dynamic group interactive session With a focus on physician leadership development, participants are building and transforming their connections through use of a unique online mentoring platform

empowerED - WONCA Polaris’ first podcast hit the scene on 6th February 2024. Already there has been two monthly updates bringing you empowering insights to support you on your Family Medicine journey. Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts to stay updated with new episodes

PolarUS - PolaRUS is a monthly hybrid general membership meeting and coffee break. During our first session on 29th February 2024, attendees formed connections and contributed to the discussion on promoting the vast skillset of Family Physicians.

WONCA Polaris Star - Canada

ADAM CHUBBS-PAYNE

Adam Chubbs-Payne is a second-year resident at Queen’s University in Ontario, Canada. His journey is defined by a passion for fostering collaborative relationships with his patients, empowering them through accessible health information. Adam’s inspiration to pursue Family Medicine stems from the profound impact of establishing high-quality, trusting, and longitudinal relationships with patients. The comprehensive nature of Family Medicine allows him to care for individuals of all ages and backgrounds, addressing a broad spectrum of health needs. The continuity of care fosters a sense of trust and familiarity, aligning with his belief in the importance of a patient-centered approach

Howdoyoumotivate yourselfatwork?

If you were to write a book about yourself, what would you name it?

“Beyond Borders: Adam's Journey Through Medicine, Travel, and Well-Being”

ADAM CHUBBS-PAYNE

“MedicineisdifficultandsometimesImustsit backandviewthingswithsomeperspective I motivatemyselfbytellingmyselfthateven thoughmedicineisdifficultandtherecanbe system issuesthatareoutofmycontrol,Iam extremelyprivilegedtobeabletohealsickand injuredpatients.Icouldnotseemyselfdoing anythingelse.”

Adam takes pride in his creation and development of ‘This is Family Medicine,’ an online platform dedicated to showcasing the rich diversity within the field Through this initiative, he successfully amplifies the voices and stories of healthcare professionals in Family Medicine from various backgrounds, contributing to a more inclusive understanding of the specialty Beyond Family Medicine, Adam's interests include traveling, photography, cooking, and playing sports His travels, spanning 24 countries and counting, have been a continuous source of inspiration and personal growth, offering unique experiences and perspectives

WONCA Polaris Star -USA

MARIA BIANCHI

Maria A Bianchi, a PGY-1 Family Medicine Resident at the University of Iowa, is on a dynamic journey of constant growth and self-discovery Embracing residency challenges, Maria thrives on saying yes to opportunities that reveal more about herself, develop skills, and shape her future career In the supportive environment of her Family Medicine Residency, Maria enjoys the shared experiences and accountability with her fellow residents Passionate about preventive healthcare and health equity, Maria’s introduction to Family Medicine coincided with her mother’s battle with advanced breast cancer For her, family doctors are akin to orchestra conductors, fostering lasting patient relationships and coordinating holistic care across life stages.

Whichaccomplishmentsareyou mostproudof?

“Sincestartingresidency,I’vebeenactivelyengagedin globalhealth,servingastheAAFPResidentMemberofthe CenterforGlobalHealthInitiativesandResident

RepresentativefortheAAFPGlobalHealthMember InterestGroupAdditionally,I’vecontributedtosports medicineasaresearcherandHighSchoolteamphysician Ialsomanagemyresidencyprogram’ssocialmediato enhancediversityinrecruitingadvocacythroughmeetings withStatelegislatorsandcontributingtotheoperational aspectsofgraduatemedicaleducationastheFamily MedicineResidentrepresentativeinmyhospital’sHouse StaffCouncil.”

Originally from Caracas, Venezuela, she brings a rich medical background and a passion for supporting international medical graduates. Beyond medicine, Maria enjoys acrylic painting, non-medical reading, board games, and exploring different cultures through her travels to 25 countries She is committed to using social media as a platform for physician networking and supporting fellow international medical graduates on their unique journeys

If

you were to write a book about yourself, what would you name it?

"An Immigrant Doctor’s Resilience Story"

MARIA BIANCHI

Ifyouweretowritea bookaboutyourself, whatwouldyounameit?

"TheInnerBeing: StrongerThanYouKnow, MoreBeautifulThanYou See,andSmarterThan YouThink"

ELINDERA FERGUSONKNOWLES

WONCA Polaris Star -The Caribbean

ELINDERA FERGUSON-KNOWLES

Elindera Ferguson-Knowles is a final-year Family Medicine Resident at The University of the West Indies in Nassau, The Bahamas Her dedication to health education and preventive care is evident in her work, where she witnesses the positive impact these interventions have on patients and their families Through her clinical experiences, she engages in meaningful dialogues with colleagues, leveraging their insights to enhance patient care.

Howdoyoustaymotivatedat work?

“IammotivatedbymyownexperienceswithhealthcareIhave hadopportunitiestonavigatethroughthehealthcaresystem duetovariousailmentsandsurgeriesBecauseofthese experiences,Icanempathizewithpatientsaboutthe frustrationsandconfusionassociatedwiththehealthcare systemWitheachpatient,Ithinkabouttheirlifeexperiences andempathizewiththeirchallenges.Thismotivatesmetotake theextramomentswiththem,togoaboveandbeyondfor them,tohelpsavealife,andtopromotehealthyliving“

Motivated by personal experiences and reflections on the pivotal role of primary care, Elindera embarked on a journey to contribute to community health and wellness Notable among her achievements is her leadership in a research project on antimicrobial resistance, recognized at the Medical Association of The Bahamas Medical Conference Additionally, she recently attained her Diploma in Family Medicine, marking a significant milestone in her professional development Beyond her medical pursuits, Elindera embraces life with zest, enjoying travel, adventure, and dance. Committee to philanthropy, she volunteers with HOPE Worldwide, actively participating in initiatives supporting underpriveleged children and families Her involvement in community health fairs and blood drives underscores her dedication to holistic wellbeing

Polaris Leadership Buzz - Job Crafting

Are you a young Family Doctor dissatisfied with your work despite knowing Family Medicine is your calling? Try job crafting, a personal leadership skill that could be your game-changer. It's about controlling and reshaping your roles and responsibilities to align with your values, strengths, and preferences. Picture it as a tailormade suit for your career, enhancing your job satisfaction, engagement, performance, and overall well-being. So how does it work? Let's break it down.

Task crafting is your first tool in the kit. Think of it as customizing your daily to-do list As a Family Physician, this might mean zeroing in on tasks that light your fire, delegating the ones that don't, or jumping at fresh opportunities that push your professional boundaries.

Then there's relational crafting – your chance to fine-tune the dynamics of your workplace connections. Strengthening ties with colleagues, patients, and stakeholders can create a supportive ecosystem. And don't forget about setting boundaries and seeking support when needed It's all about cultivating a positive environment where you can thrive.

Last, we have cognitive crafting – the art of reframing your perspective on work Take a moment to reflect on your impact on patients' lives Find joy in the small victories and opportunities for growth. Shifting your mindset can uncover new layers of purpose and fulfillment in your role.

So, the next time you ' re feeling the work blues, remember the power of job crafting

Take charge of your professional journey, find joy every day, and watch as you create a ripple effect of positivity in your workplace and beyond.

Polaris Wellness - The Power of Gratitude

As Family Medicine trainees and physicians, our days (and nights) are filled with work, non-work obligations, and tasks. It may seem as if completing one task goes unnoticed as it is quickly replaced with three new ones In this demanding specialty, prioritizing our mental health is crucial. Daily gratitude is a powerful practice that can positively impact your well-being and perspective.

Take a moment each day to reflect on three things you ’ re grateful for, fostering a positive mindset and inviting more joy into your life. Set a daily alarm, keep a gratitude journal, and be amazed by your journey of gratitude. Start this practice right now and be transformed. What are three things you are grateful for in this moment?

Help us to unleash the power of our Polaris community!

Let us know how you would like to get involved: newsletter, social media, website, blog, project support, event organization, artist & more

Polaris Physician Stars

Our 2023-2025 Polaris Objectives

This term, our focus is on you! In all our Polaris activities, we strive to achieve at least one of the following objectives: increasing community engagement, raising awareness of the diverse practices of Family Medicine in our region, supporting physician well-being, showcasing the talents and contributions of our Polaris members, assisting in career development, and promoting the Family Medicine specialty. But we can’t do it alone. Help us make Polaris a transformative experience for you on your Family medicine journey. If you or your residency are involved in noteworthy initiatives, please email us and let us know (woncapolaris@gmail com)

Do you know a medical student with strong interest in Family Medicine, Family Medicine Resident or early career Family Physician in our region who is making a splash in the Family Medicine community? Send us an email with their name, country, and contact so that we can feature them in our Polaris Post Summer Issue. We value your efforts and are dedicated to letting our community know that you are a Polaris Star!

28th March 2024

PolarUS General Membership Coffee Break

April 2024 empowerED Podcast monthly update

Announcements, Upcoming Events, Updates Click & Join Our Community woncapolaris

25th April 2024

19th May 2024

23rd May 2024

PolarUS General Membership Coffee Break

Polaris 10th Birthday & World Family Doctor Day

PolarUS General Membership Coffee Break

PolarUS Meetings Zoom Details for above dates:

Meeting ID: 841 7515 4042 Passcode: 637812

*All medstudents with FM interest, FM residents, and early career Family Physicians in Canada, USA, and the Caribbean are invited to the PolarUS meetings*

Join our mailing list - email us woncapolaris@gmail.com