CFPC Statement re Canadian Family Physician editorial

2021-06-25

We hear you. We recognize that many CFPC members are frustrated, disappointed and angry with the College of Family Physicians of Canada and Canadian Family Physician (CFP) journal over the editorial, Family medicine is not a business. The editorial does not reflect the views of the CFPC and was not approved by CFPC. We apologize for the tone and the sweeping statements that were felt by many people as an attack and were heard as the voice of the CFPC. This is not the CFPC voice but an opinion of one editor reflecting on issues that exist but are infrequent. We apologize for the distress this has caused for you, our colleagues.

We know that family doctors continue to push their limits to support patients and communities through the pandemic. We respect and are grateful for the hard work that you do every day.

The CFPC supports the editorial independence of the CFP and cannot intervene or direct the content of the journal. We will meet with the CFP’s Editorial Advisory Board to debrief, review its terms of reference and develop a clear statement with respect to editorial independence while ensuring that the values of the CFPC are met.

We will work hard to build and maintain your confidence in the CFPC and would ask you to keep an open mind about the process that presents different opinions through CFP editorials.
 

Catherine Cervin, MD, CCFP, FCFP, MAEd
President
 
Francine Lemire, MD CM, CCFP, FCFP, CAE. ICD.D
Executive Director and CEO