The Ontario Medical Association (OMA) and Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) have reached a tentative four-year Physician Services Agreement (PSA). The Ontario College of Family Physicians (OCFP) strongly encourages family physician members to read the tentative Agreement posted on the OMA members' website found here. In particular, the OCFP would like to draw your attention to details surrounding changes in primary care in Section 6.0 - Improving Primary Care Services for Patients.
The OCFP recognizes the efforts of both the OMA and the MOHLTC for continuing to seek a negotiated agreement for physicians in Ontario. The commitment of the OMA and the MOHLTC to work together, and with partners, is of great importance during this time of primary care transformation.
Have Your Questions Answered
Over the coming weeks, the OMA will hold face-to-face meetings and a series of tele-town-halls and webinar sessions to connect with physicians and ensure full understanding and transparency regarding all facets of the Agreement. The meeting schedule will be posted online on the OMA's website, or you can provide your comments and questions directly to the OMA via email at [email protected].
Your Participation Matters
An OMA referendum vote will take place between July 27 and August 3, 2016; more details about how to vote in the referendum will be communicated by the OMA.
The OCFP is encouraging all family physicians to review the tentative four-year Agreement, ensure your questions are answered, and seek clarification directly from the OMA so that you can make an informed vote. Following closure of the referendum, the OMA Council will vote on ratification of the Agreement as presented.
There are many changes facing family physicians working in primary care, and the OCFP appreciates these challenges. Despite the uncertainty over the last months, family physicians demonstrate time and again their commitment to high-quality patient care. Your Ontario College will continue to work to ensure your voice is heard so that we can get closer to realizing our vision of coordinated, comprehensive and continuing care for every Ontarian and an integrated and sustainable health system.
Resources
- OMA/MOHLTC news release.
- OMA member's website.