A Tribute to Dr. Mastrogiacomo & OCFP Survey Reminder

Dear SGFP Members,

I am beginning today’s letter with a tribute to Dr. Cathy Mastrogiacomo and her outstanding service to the Section on General and Family Practice (SGFP). Her dedication to our members and the profession has been truly exceptional, setting a high bar for leadership and commitment.

Since 2016, she has held key leadership roles in SGFP, including Chair, Vice-Chair, Past-Chair and District 11 and PLG Delegate, guiding us through pivotal moments, including the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her contributions extend beyond the SGFP, as she has also held significant positions within the Ontario Medical Association, including Chair of the Primary Care Solo Doctors MIG, Committee member of the Physician Action Working Group, Committee member on Joint Committee on the Schedule of Benefits, and Member of the Cannabinoid Medicine MIG.

Throughout her tenure, Dr. Mastrogiacomo has been a driving force for positive change. Her leadership has been instrumental in streamlining the SGFP executive for more efficient governance and fostering better collaboration between specialists and family physicians. Her unwavering commitment to representing family physicians and advocating for patient access to team-based care has been truly commendable.

As she steps down from her SGFP leadership role, we thank Dr. Mastrogiacomo for her unwavering dedication and visionary leadership. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations, and we look forward to seeing where her passion for improving healthcare leads next.

I want to highlight an important opportunity, the OCFP survey on Primary Care Action Team Funding. Your input is vital in shaping how these funds support family doctors and strengthen primary care in our communities. The SGFP and OCFP continue to advocate fiercely to ensure these resources truly align with your needs. While additional supports remain essential, this funding presents a meaningful opportunity that we cannot afford to overlook. I strongly encourage you to take a moment to complete the survey and make your voice heard.

Before I conclude, I want to remind members they have until Sunday evening to apply for various positions on our operational teams:

• 3 Team Member positions on the Policy & Advocacy Team (two positions for 2-year terms; one position for 1-year term)
• 2 Team Member positions on the Tariff Team (2-year terms)
• 1 Family Physician Lead on the Policy & Advocacy Team (3-year term)

Serving on these teams offers a direct way for family doctors to influence change. Your participation will help shape the future of family medicine and ensure practical, on-the-ground realities are represented in our advocacy work.

Application deadline: May 11. Submit your application. Shortlisted candidates will participate in a 15–20 minute interview.

Warm regards,
Dr. David Barber
Chair, SGFP

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