SGFP Chair Update: Acuity Modifier Implementation & Fall Initiatives
Dear SGFP Members,
We know many of you have been waiting for clarity on the Acuity Modifier implementation into FHO/FHN capitation rates. Originally scheduled for April 1, 2025, this payment was delayed—an outcome we share deep frustration over. The OMA escalated the issue through all available government channels, and we’ve now been informed that the Ministry implemented Acuity into the capitation system in August 2025.
- Regular monthly Acuity payments for August 2025 will appear on the September RA under “Network Base Rate Acuity Modifier Payment,” and will be reported as “Base Rate Acuity Payment.”
- Retroactive Acuity payments for April–July 2025 will appear under “Network Base Rate Acuity Modifier Adjustment,” and will be reported as “Base Rate Acuity Adjustment.”
The Ministry will issue an infobulletin to help physicians locate these payments on their RA; SGFP will share it once available. We recognize how long many of you have waited for this update, and we remain committed to advocating for timely, transparent, and equitable solutions that support your work and the patients you serve.
In another Tariff related matter, SGFP noted errors in the Physician Payment Committee (PPC) Report Draft #3 regarding the proposed fee increases. The updated version is available now on the OMA website for member review and comments.
As we head into a busy fall, here are a few additional updates from SGFP:
SGFP In-person AGM Registration:
If you haven’t already and are part of OMA’s District 6, please take a moment to register for this in-person AGM and Townhall. We’re looking forward to meaningful discussions and strong engagement.
FHO+ Resource Development: The OMA is seeking input from family physicians to help shape these resources—your voice matters. If you're interested in contributing, please email info@oma.org with the subject line “Family Medicine PSA Resource Advisors” and include your practice type and any relevant details.
SGFP On-Call:
Thank you for the enthusiastic response to our pilot where we invite members to engage 1:1 with SGFP Board members. Our limited spots for this test round filled up quickly. Please watch here for more updates on this engagement initiative.
Job Opportunity - Ontario Health Provincial Primary Care Lead:
Ontario Health is seeking expressions of interest from practicing family physicians or primary care nurse practitioners for this role providing strategic leadership to the evolution of the Ontario Primary Care system. Please see this link for more details.
Thank you for your continued commitment and engagement. We’re proud to represent such a dedicated group of professionals.
Warm Regards,
Dr. Dave Barber
Chair, SGFP
Other Resources
SGFP in the Media
Listen to Dr. Dave Barber in this episode, “What this family doctor wants you to know about Ontario’s primary care crisis” of the Toronto Star’s podcast, “This Matters”. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or the Toronto Star’s website
Weekend Counselling and Psychotherapy in Family Medicine
September 19, 2025 - May 3, 2026
Website: https://www.cpd.utoronto.ca/cpfm/
This interactive, on line small group program equips primary care physicians with much-needed clinical knowledge and skills to incorporate counselling and psychotherapy into their practices. Develop practical approaches and techniques to provide timely psychosocial and mental health support for patients.
Covering a wide variety of topics in a longitudinal format, learners will have the opportunity to practice skills during the 5 weekend online sessions, and during mentoring sessions between each weekend.
Apply early to secure your seat.
Questions? Please contact: facmed.registration@utoronto.ca
AI Scribes Providing Tangible Results for Clinicians
In a 2024 study of AI scribes, family doctors reported spending 70% less time on paperwork and saving almost four hours per week.
OntarioMD just launched OMD’s AI Scribe Transition Guide for clinicians implementing an AI scribe recommended by the Ontario AI Scribe Program. The step-by-step guide includes resources for added support.
Sign up for the Ontario AI Scribe Program’s many benefits including:
- Vetted vendors and contracts minimizing exposure to risk,
- Discounted pricing available only to participants,
- Support from OntarioMD to help optimize AI scribe adoption and ensure seamless integration.
Resource Sharing: If you have information about a news item, policy, survey or event you wish to share with SGFP members, please review the criteria and provide the following required information for us to include in this section of the newsletter. Please send this submission to: ChairLetterSGFP@outlook.com