Staying Engaged: Preparing for FHO+ and What Comes Next
Dear SGFP Members,
It’s been just over two weeks since the release of the arbitration materials, and you’ve responded with deep engagement. Hundreds of you attended the FHO+ webinars this week, and through those sessions and other channels, you've submitted a substantial number of thoughtful and important questions.
The SGFP has also strongly advocated for increases to the Family Health Group (FHG) and Fee-for-Service (FFS) models. The proposed increases remain part of the arbitration process; additionally, the SGFP has advocated for fee code changes/new fee codes through the PPC (Physician Payment Committee) process. We will continue to keep you informed as developments unfold.
FHO+ represents real change for all physicians currently in a FHO. No practice will remain untouched. That was part of the point—family medicine is evolving, and our payment model needed to evolve with it.
We know that change is challenging, especially in a landscape marked by fatigue and burnout. While the arbitrator’s decision is still expected this fall, implementation of FHO+ will follow, and while it may feel distant, it will be here before we know it.
The SGFP, in collaboration with the OMA, is fully committed to supporting members as they transition, whether from FHO to FHO+, or from other practice models. Every practice is different, and so is the impact of this shift. That’s why preparation is key.
We also acknowledge that there may be unintended consequences and we are actively exploring them. One area receiving immediate attention is the potential impact of both the FHO+ model and recent Emergency Department agreement on the RNPGA (Rural and Northern Physician Group Agreement) and in particular the Group 2 RNPGA contract. The SGFP remains committed to upholding the spirit of the RNPGA, which is designed to and support and incentivize comprehensive family physicians practicing in rural and remote northern communities.
If you weren’t able to attend a webinar, we encourage you to review a recording and explore the FHO+ Information Page. Additional webinars and updated resources are coming soon, including targeted education on adapting your practice for FHO+ implementation.
Stay tuned over the coming months—we want every member transitioning to feel confident and ready for the April 2026 start of FHO+.
The OMA is also assembling a diverse group of family physicians to help shape the transition supports. 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.
We’re entering an important phase. Let’s stay informed, engaged, and prepared.
Warm Regards,
Dr. Dave Barber
Chair, SGFP
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