Dear Colleagues,

We’re excited to share that the OCFP’s public advocacy campaign is officially underway!

In the lead up to the provincial election on June 2, you’ll see us in the media and on social media, conveying the value of family doctors and the crisis our province is facing – not enough family doctors, not enough time for care. And importantly, offering solutions to fix the problem.

Our goal: Ensure family physician issues are reflected on each party's election policy platform.

Context for action

Decades of research show that the best health systems in the world are marked by ongoing relationships with family doctors. Ontario can be one too. If we’re going to get there though, we need more family doctors to meet the needs of a growing and aging population, and you need the tools and time to do your jobs.

We're pleased to see that nearly 90% of you agree with our main asks of the political parties this election, according to the latest survey in our President’s Message:

• Expand access to teams for all family doctors and their patients, regardless of practice model;
• Limit administrative work to free up more of your time for direct patient care; and
• Retain and recruit more family doctors – especially in underserved communities.

Getting on the public agenda

To get on the radar of the public and decision-makers, our creative campaign tells the story of what Life Without a Doctor means. We chose this campaign name because it is creative and punchy, and our polling with the public showed that Ontarians immediately think of a family doctor when they hear the word 'doctor'. We want to reaffirm that this campaign is about family doctors – the value you bring, unpacking the challenges you and your patients are facing, and what’s needed to fix the problem.

We have shared goals and are working closely with the OMA Section on General and Family Practice to make sure your voices are heard.

Help us get the word out – every Ontarian deserves access to a family doctor

• Share our recommended social media posts (see “Spread the word” section) or write your own.
• Use the #LifeWithoutADoctor hashtag and tag us on social media.

What the OCFP will do

• Share regular updates with new campaign content and other developments.
• Hold a Town Hall with the SGFP closer to the election, for those of you wishing to help us advocate with the election candidates.

We welcome your ongoing feedback. Some have shared additional priorities and, while they may not be part of this more focused election campaign, they are part of our broader advocacy efforts. We will keep you informed of our progress.

Thank you all for your ongoing dedication and outstanding service to your patients, communities and our province. Together, we will ensure family doctors are rightfully on the political agenda this election.

Kimberly Moran, CEO
[email protected]

Liz Muggah, President
[email protected]