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Member Interest Groups Section (MIGS)

What is MIGS?

The Member Interest Groups Section (MIGS) provides a professional home for family physicians across a wide diversity of clinical and non-clinical interests and practice types. It aims to strengthen the role of family physicians and the CFPC in acting as a national voice for family physicians. The MIGS is a community for its members to create practice tools, health policy documents, guide the development of educational standards, and provide thought leadership.

Purpose

The MIGS supports members’ practice by:
  • Representing the concerns and needs of CFPC members in the area of interest with which they have identified
  • Supporting discussion and communication between members and between the Section and CFPC
  • Providing a professional home for family physicians across a diversity of practice types, practice settings, and career stages
  • Connecting members with similar practice interests across Canada to share information, learn, and develop and access resources
  • Creating and delivering continuing professional development (CPD) programs, clinical resources, and guidelines
  • Serving as a resource to the CFPC by informing advocacy efforts and policy development
  • Connecting family physician members with internal and external stakeholders to support the advancement of family medicine

     

Council Members

 
Dr. Benjamin Schiff

Dr. Benjamin Schiff

(Chair, 2023–2026)
MD CM, CCFP, FCFP

Dr. Lori Montgomery

Dr. Lori Montgomery

(Vice-Chair 2024-2026)
CCFP, FCFP, CHE

Dr. Muna Chowdhury, MD, CCFP, FCFP

Dr. Muna Chowdhury

MD, CCFP, FCFP

Dr. William Ehman

Dr. Genevieve Chaput

MD, MEd, CCFP(PC)

Dr. Ovie Albert

Dr. Ovie Albert

(FMF MIGS Representative) MBBS,
LMCC, CCFP, MSc (Occ Med)

Dr. Naila Kassam

Dr. Naila Kassam

MD, MBA, CCFP
 

Dr. Burton McCann

Dr. Burton McCann

MD, JD, CCFP, CIME, CCBOM, FCFP, FACOEM

Dr. Nooshin Nikoo MD, CCFP

Dr. Nooshin Nikoo

(SOT MIGS Representative), MD,
MHSc, CCFP

Dr. Sarah Kim

Dr. Yasmin Sultan Majeed

MD, CCFP (CoE) FCFP

 
 

MIGS resources

  • 2SLGBTQ+ Health - New!

    Chair: Dr. Thea Weisdorf (Ontario)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Andrew Organek (Ontario)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the 2SLGBTQ+ Health member interest group:
    Year Title Description Links
    2024 CFPC Pride A web page highlighting the work family physicians have done to support people in 2SLGBTQ+ communities including resources for family physicians looking to expand their knowledge and ability to ensure all patients feel welcome and safe Website
    2023 Podcast: HIV in the aging population Part of the FM Rounds Podcast Series.

    Join Dr. Gordon Arbess, as he shares his expertise on 2SLGBTQ+ health through an examination of the diagnosis of HIV among the elderly and other STIs common within the community.
    CFPCLearn
    Spotify
    Apple Music
    2023 Podcasts: Gender-affirming care and 2SLGBTQ+ health Dr. Sarah Fraser hosts Dr. Thea Weisdorf and Dr. Andrew Organek on the CFP podcast to discuss gender-affirming care and 2SLGBTQ+ health. Podcast: Part 1
    Podcast: Part 2
    2023 June 2023 Pride-themed issue of CFP The CFP published a Pride-themed issue in June. Check out the articles related to 2SLGBTQ+ health! CFP issue
    2022 Cancer Screening in Transgender and Gender-Diverse Patients A podcast by Dr. Thea Weisdorf and Dr. Andrew Organek discussing cancer screening in transgender and gender-diverse patients Podcast
    2022 LGBTQI+ Refugee Health: What Family Physicians Need to Know A webinar hosted by the 2SLGBTQI+ and Global Health Member Interest Groups discussing LGBTQI+ refugee health Video
  • Cancer Care - New!

    Chair: Dr. Gen Chaput (Quebec)
    Vice Chair: vacant


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Cancer Care MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2024 “Colon cancer in primary care” This article reviews the diagnosis, workup, and treatment of colon cancer to better support family physicians as they care for these patients. CFP article
    2024 “Melanoma crash course” Family physicians are involved in all aspects of melanoma care, especially in diagnosis and follow-up. This article provides an up-to-date review of melanoma treatment and highlights notable improved mortality rates in patients with later-stage disease as well as the need for family physicians to be aware of immune-related adverse events as they follow patients with a diagnosis of melanoma. CFP article
    2023 “Demystifying breast cancer” The first question a patient often asks their family physician after receiving a diagnosis of breast cancer is “What will my treatment be?” This article helps family physicians answer this complex question. CFP article
    2023 “Lung cancer crash course” This article provides family physicians with a crash course on the range of possible therapies and outcomes in the treatment of lung cancer. CFP article
    2023 “Common oncologic emergencies” This article reviews the presentation and management of three common oncologic emergencies: malignant spinal cord compression, superior vena cava obstruction, and febrile neutropenia. CFP article
    2022 “Vaccination considerations for patients receiving cancer therapy” This article reviews vaccination in patients who are receiving cancer treatment, including safety, timing, and optimization of response to vaccination. CFP article
    2022 “Targeted cancer therapies: Clinical pearls for primary care” This article discusses how targeted therapy works, why specific therapies may or may not be options, and what adverse effects are possible. CFP article
    2022 “Mitigating COVID-19's impact of missed and delayed cancer diagnoses” A commentary paper and supporting patient and provider infographics highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on cancer diagnoses and how family physicians can mitigate the effects CFP article

    Provider Infographic

    Patient Infographic
    2022 “Endocrine therapies for breast and prostate cancers” This article provides an overview of endocrine therapy, with a focus on breast and prostate cancer agents CFP article
    2022 “Chemotherapy basics for family physicians” A summary of chemotherapy essentials for family physicians CFP article
    2021 Canadian Cancer Screening Updates This webinar reviews recent developments in screening for lung, breast, colon, and cervical cancers CFPCLearn (webinar)
    2021 “Radiotherapy: Clinical pearls for primary care” This article provides a summary of the basic principles, techniques, indications, and side effects of radiotherapy CFP article
    2021 “Immunotherapy” This article summarizes the basic principles of immunotherapy, cancers commonly treated by immunotherapy, how it is administered, and its side effects CFP article
    2021 The Spectrum of Cancer Care from a Family Physician Perspective A series of webinars and podcasts covering the spectrum of cancer care from a family physician perspective. Topics include tips for expediting cancer diagnosis, cognitive and psychosocial impacts for cancer survivors, surveillance and recurrence prevention, and long-term side effects of cancer therapy CFPCLearn (webinars and podcasts)
    2021   “Cancer diagnosis in primary care: Six steps to reducing the diagnostic interval”   A six-step guide to help primary care providers decrease the diagnostic interval and enable a more positive patient outcome CFP article
    2021  “Cancer screening in Canada: What’s in, what’s out, what’s coming” Summary of current screening guidelines for prostate, lung, colorectal, cervical, ovarian, and breast cancers and clinical pearls for practice CFP article
    2019 Breast Cancer Survivorship Tool Tool designed to educate family physicians and empower their patients who have completed curative therapy for breast cancer to follow their own care Fillable PDF
  • Developmental Disabilities - New!

    Chair: Dr. Alicia Thatcher (Saskatchewan)
    Vice Chair: vacant


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Developmental Disabilities MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2024 Developmental Disabilities Webinar Series A five-part webinar series in which each episode will be case-based, chosen and presented by a family physician, and, in some cases, supported by other specialists, as appropriate to the topic. Web page
    2023 Podcast: IDD Health check Tool Part of the FM Rounds Podcast Series.

    Dr. Ian Casson joins us to provide his expert insight into IDD Health Check, a primary care tool for comprehensive health assessments of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
    CFPCLearn
    Spotify
    Apple Music
    2023 Health Check Tool A practice guide for implementing the updated Health Check Tool into clinical practice to enhance feasibility. Web page
    2019 CFP Second special issue on primary care of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, focusing on care later in life   CFP supplement link
    2018 “Primary care of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities: 2018 consensus guidelines”   CFP article
    2018 CFP Special issue on primary care of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities   CFP supplement link
  • Health and Environment - New!

    Chair: Dr. Domenica Tambasco (Ontario)
    Vice Chair: vacant


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Health and Environment Member Interest Group:
    Year Title Description Links
    2024 Health and Environment Educational Webinar Series -
    Using the SEAM approach to evaluate the health impacts of common toxicant exposures.
    Earn Mainpro+ credits by listening to subject matter experts use the SEAM approach (source, exposure and effects, assessment, management) to evaluate the health impacts of common toxicant exposures in these 30-minute recorded webinars. Benzene

    Lead
    2023 Podcast: Taking an Environmental Exposure History Part of the FM Rounds Podcast Series.

    Listen as Dr. Domenica Tambasco and Dr. Victor Ng discuss how environmental exposures have a significant impact on health and well-being, and how family physicians play a crucial role identifying and managing these exposures.
    CFPCLearn
    Spotify
    Apple Music
  • Health Care of the Elderly - New!

    Chair: Dr. Sidney Feldman (Ontario)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Vivian Ewa (Alberta)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Health Care of the Elderly MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2024 National Dementia Guidelines for disclosing a diagnosis The new guidelines strive to address the fact that both family physicians and people living with dementia report feeling a lack of support during the process of communicating a diagnosis. The guidelines and tool kit are made to support family physicians, nurse practitioners, and specialists in improving what can be a challenging process. The guidelines are in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Canada. Access the guidelines and tool kit.
    2017 Clinical Snippet: Rapid Screening Tools for Dementia and Depression A brief overview of rapid screening tools available to family physicians to assist with patients who may present with depression and dementia PDF
    2017 Clinical Snippet: Driving Retirement A brief overview of discussions with patients and their families about driving retirement PDF
  • Physician Wellness and Resilience - New!

    Chair: Dr. Erin Bearss (Ontario)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Sarah Kim (Ontario)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Physician Wellness and Resilience MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2024 CFPC Physician Wellness Retreat: May 24–26, 2024 The Physician Wellness Retreat aimed to provide family physicians an environment in which they could learn and apply principles of physician wellness. The retreat was an opportunity to enjoy three nights immersed in the beauty of the Alberta mountains while learning, reconnecting, and engaging with colleagues, old and new. www.cfpc.ca/pwretreat
  • Sport and Exercise Medicine - New!

    Chair: Dr. Lisa Liang (Ontario)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Nitai Gelber (Ontario)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Sport and Exercise Medicine MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2024 Clinical Evaluation of the Musculoskeletal System: A Guide for Family Physicians An eBook developed by Dr. Teresa De Freitas and Dr. Constance Lebrun, with over 200 videos focused on musculoskeletal practical examination techniques. Please note, this eBook is formatted for desktop and laptop computers only.
     
    1. Download the folder from this link.
    2. Move the document from the “Downloads” folder to where you want to store the document.
    3. Either double click on the document (Mac) or right click and choose “Extract All.” The document/folder will be unzipped.
    4. A new folder will appear; this is the new eBook. The original compressed document can be deleted.
    5. Open the eBook folder and double click on “MSK SportMedicine.html.” The eBook will open in your default browser.
    2019 Position Statement: Physical Activity Assessment and Counselling: A key determinant of health for every Canadian   PDF
    2017 Joint Position Statement: The Role of Family Physicians and Physicians with Added Competencies in Sport and Exercise Medicine in a Public Health Approach to Concussions   PDF
  • Addiction Medicine

    Chair: vacant
    Vice Chair: Dr. Andrew Lodge (Manitoba)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Addiction Medicine MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2023 Practical Approach to Gambling Disorder for Family Physicians An open-source document to serve as a quick reference booklet to help family physicians at all stages of their careers recognize and treat gambling disorder. PDF
    2022 Supporting Substance Use Recovery in Primary Care In this episode of Family Medicine Rounds, Dr. David Martell and Dr. Melissa Holowaty discuss the concept of recovery within addiction medicine and how primary care can support their patients in recovery from substance use disorders. Podcast
    2021 Practical Approach to Substance Use Disorders for the Family Physician Booklet and infographic to help family physicians recognize and treat common substance use disorders (those related to nicotine, alcohol, and opioids) Booklet PDF

    Infographic PDF
    2021 Let’s Talk About Opioids Videos and resources to educate patients about opioids and their potentially devastating effects when used improperly Videos
    2020 Position Statement on Access to Opioid Agonist Treatment  

    Web page

    2020 Chronic non-cancer pain management and opioid resources Web page containing links to resources pertaining to chronic non-cancer pain management and opioid prescribing resources Web page
    2017 2017 Canadian Opioid Prescribing Guideline PDF poster detailing the key points of the 2017 Canadian Opioid Prescribing Guideline PDF
    2017

    Safe prescribing practices for addictive medications
    and management of
    substance use disorders in
    primary care: A pocket
    reference for primary care
    providers

    A quick-reference tool for primary care providers on implementing best practices for prescribing potentially addictive medications and managing substance use disorders PDF
  • Child and Adolescent Health

    Chair: Dr. Pierre-Paul Tellier (Quebec)

    The Child and Adolescent Health Member Interest Group was established in 2011 and includes the work of the Joint Action Committee on Child and Adolescent Health (JACCAH), which was established in 1997.

    The JACCAH has been sunset in 2023.

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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Child and Adolescent Health Member Interest Group.
    Year Title Description Links
    2023 “Adolescent medicine training in postgraduate family medicine education: A scoping review” Adolescents and young adults require age-appropriate health care services delivered by clinicians with expertise in adolescent medicine. This scoping review published in the International Journal of Adolescent Health and Medicine maps the breadth and depth of the current evidence about adolescent medicine training for family medicine residents. Article
    2022 Caring for Your Sexual and Gender-Diverse Youth A podcast by Dr. Pierre-Paul Tellier discussing caring for sexual and gender-diverse youth Podcast
  • Chronic Pain

    Chair: Dr. Lori Montgomery (Alberta)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Karen Appel (Manitoba)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Chronic Pain MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2022 Healthy Lifestyle Tips for Managing Your Chronic Pain Learn about quick and easy tips from Dr. Lydia Hatcher to use in your office visit when dealing with patients with chronic pain. You don’t need more time, just more effective ways to help that don’t involve medication or expensive therapies. Podcast
    2022 PEER Simplified Chronic Pain Guideline: Management of low back, osteoarthritic, and neuropathic pain A podcast by Dr. Lori Montgomery reviewing the most recent guideline for management of chronic pain in family medicine. Podcast
    2022 Lignes directrices simplifiées  de PEER sur la douleur chronique
    (Only available in French)
    Gestion de la douleur chronique lombaire, arthrosique et neuropathique en première ligne
    Discussion des nouvelles lignes directrice simplifiées de PEER sur la douleur chronique. La gestion de la douleur lombaire, arthrosique et neuropathique sont discutées.
    Podcast
    2021 Simplifying Non-Pharmacological Treatments for Chronic Pain A series of webinars and podcasts with supporting infographics covering four non-pharmacological treatments for chronic pain: mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, and movement CFPCLearn (webinars and podcasts)

    Mindfulness infographic
     
    Cognitive behavioural therapy infographic

    Motivational interviewing infographic

    Movement infographic
    2019 “Managing opioid use disorder in primary care: PEER simplified guideline” Clinical practice guideline for a simplified approach to managing opioid use disorder in primary care CFP article
    2018 Medical Cannabinoids Guideline Summary Two-page infographic summary of simplified guideline for prescribing medical cannabinoids in primary care PDF
    2018 “Simplified guideline for prescribing medical cannabinoids in primary care”   CFP article
    2017 Chronic Pain and Opioid Resources Document with links to external resources and practice support (e.g., guidelines, clinical support/mentorship networks, courses, etc.) PDF
  • Dermatology

    Chair: Dr. Olusoji Adewole (Alberta)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Saadia Hameed Jan (Ontario)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Dermatology MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    N/A Coming soon    
  • Emergency Medicine

    Chair: Dr. Jock Murray (Nova Scotia)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Sarah Foohey (Ontario)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Emergency Medicine MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2022 Emergency Medicine Virtual Simulation Olympics A virtual simulation event at FMF where teams of family medicine residents competed in three rounds of friendly competition diagnosing and treating patients Video
  • Enhanced Surgical Skills

    Chair: vacant
    Vice Chair: vacant


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Enhanced Surgical Skills MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2022 Rural anesthesia, surgery, and obstetric care in Canada Dr. Nick Pimlott interviews Dr. Stuart Iglesias, a retired rural family physician with anesthesia and surgical skills and a tireless champion for high-quality rural and remote medical care in Canada. Podcast
    2022 “Consensus statement on networks for high-quality rural anesthesia, surgery, and obstetric care in Canada” A consensus statement that describes the essential components of well-resourced and high-functioning multidisciplinary networks that support high-quality anesthesia, surgery, and maternity care for rural Canadians delivered as close to home as possible CFP article
    2015 Enhanced Surgical Skills playlist YouTube playlist of videos demonstrating surgical procedures curated by the ESS MIG Chair YouTube
  • Family Practice Anesthesia (CAGA)

    Chair: Dr. Nadia Alam (Ontario)
    Affiliated conjoint committee: Collaborative Advisory Group for General and Family Practice Anesthesia (CAGA)

    The Family Practice Anesthesia MIG was established under the Section of Family Physicians with Special Interests or Focused Practices in 2011 (now known as the Member Interest Groups Section) and includes the work of the Collaborative Advisory Group for General and Family Practice Anesthesia (CAGA). CAGA facilitates discussions and communication between the CFPC, the Society of Rural Physicians of Canada, and the Canadian Anesthesiologists’ Society about issues relevant to members. The chair of the Family Practice Anesthesia MIG serves as the CFPC representative on CAGA.


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Family Practice Anesthesia MIG and/or CAGA:
    Year Title Description Links
    2022 Rural anesthesia, surgery, and obstetric care in Canada Dr. Nick Pimlott interviews Dr. Stuart Iglesias, a retired rural family physician with anesthesia and surgical skills and a tireless champion for high-quality rural and remote medical care in Canada. Podcast
    2022 “Consensus statement on networks for high-quality rural anesthesia, surgery, and obstetric care in Canada” A consensus statement that describes the essential components of well-resourced and high-functioning multidisciplinary networks that support high-quality anesthesia, surgery, and maternity care for rural Canadians, delivered as close to home as possible CFP article
  • Gastrointestinal and Digestive Health

    Chair: Dr. Val Ginzburg (Ontario)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Joel Kroeker (Ontario)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Gastrointestinal and Digestive Health member interest group:
    Year Title Description Links
    2023 Podcast: Watery Diarrhea Part of the FM Rounds Podcast Series.

    Dr. Val Ginzburg discusses the topic of watery diarrhea as a common gastrointestinal and digestive health issue in family medicine practice.
    CFPCLearn
    Spotify
    Apple Music
  • Global Health

    Chair: Dr. Mona Haidar (Ontario)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Yasmin Majeed (Alberta)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Global Health MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2023 Implementing social interventions in primary care in Canada: A qualitative exploration of lessons learned from leaders in the field. This study highlights the need for creativity, persistence, partnership, a deep understanding of community and individual social needs, a willingness to overcome barriers, and an ability to focus on institutional change to successfully develop and implement social intervention programs in primary health care settings. Bloch B, Rozmovits L. Implementing social interventions in primary care in Canada: A qualitative exploration of lessons learned from leaders in the field. PLoS One. 2023;18(2):e0281112.
    2022 Global Health Webinar Series 2022 A series of webinars examining advancing health equity in family medicine. Webinar 1: “LGBTQI+ Refugee Health: What Family Physicians Need to Know”
    2020/2021 Webinar series explores caring for vulnerable populations during the COVID-19 pandemic In 2020/2021 the Global Health member Interest group hosted a three-part webinar series exploring the impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable populations and the provision of care for these populations during the pandemic. These webinars were recorded and can be viewed using the links provided. Webinar 1: “Serving Refugee and Immigrant Populations During COVID-19”

    Webinar 2: “Caring for the Homeless Population During the COVID-19 Pandemic”

    Webinar 3: “The Impact of COVID-19 on Prison Populations”
    2017 “Practicing family medicine in a new world order” Article from several members of the Global Health MIG and colleagues CFP article
  • Hospital Medicine

    Chair: Dr. Ovie Albert (Saskatchewan)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Eddy Malouf (Quebec)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Hospital Medicine MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2023 Hospital Medicine Mini-Series This four-part webinar series covers the following topics:
    • Diversity Of Career Paths With Hospital Medicine
    • Determining Level of Intervention in the Time of COVID-19
    • Building Up Academics at Your Hospital
    • Work-Life Balance in Hospital Medicine
    Also available as a podcast.
    Link to video and podcast series
  • Maternity and Newborn Care

    Chair: Dr. Milena Forte (Ontario)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Sanja Kostov (Alberta)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Maternity and Newborn Care MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2023 Anthology of Family Medicine Birth Stories A collection of stories and poems of birth stories from primary care providers to promote and raise the visibility of the valuable work that family physicians provide in caring for patients through their birth journeys. Full Circle: a collection of family medicine birth stories
    2022 “The medical learner perspective: Family medicine obstetrics as a specialty choice” This Canadian Family Physician piece explores current medical learners’ experiences in discovering the specialty of family medicine obstetrics (FM-OB) and how medical students suggest better integration of FM-OB into the undergraduate medical curriculum. CFP article
    2017 Priority Topics and Key Features for the Assessment of Competence in Intrapartum and Perinatal Care Document outlines what to assess to determine competence in intrapartum and perinatal care for family medicine using the CFPC’s traditional approach of developing priority topics, procedures, and key features PDF
  • Mental Health (CWGSMHC)

    Chair: Dr. Javed Alloo (Ontario)
    Affiliated conjoint committee: Collaborative Working Group on Shared Mental Health Care (CWGSMHC)

    The Mental Health Member Interest Group (MIG) represents the interests of all CFPC members providing mental health care, including those for whom this is part of their broad scope family practice and those with a special interest or focused practice.

    The Mental Health MIG was established under the Section of Family Physicians with Special Interests or Focused Practices (SIFP) in 2010—now known as the Member Interest Groups Section—and includes the work of the Collaborative Working Group on Shared Mental Health Care (CWGSMHC), which was established in 1997. The CWGSMHC is a conjoint committee that includes representation from the CFPC and the Canadian Psychiatric Association. The chair of the Mental Health MIG serves as the CFPC representative on the CWGSMHC.

    The shared objective of the CWGSMHC is to work collaboratively to enhance the quality of health care for all Canadians with mental illness or emotional problems. Its members continue to implement strategies identified in “The Evolution of Collaborative Mental Health Care in Canada: A Shared Vision for the Future,” their 2011 CPA/CFPC position paper.


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Mental Health MIG and/or the CWGSMHC:
    Year Title Description Links
    2023 “Collaborative mental health care in Canada: Challenges, opportunities, and new directions” A position paper by the Collaborative Working Group on Shared Mental Health Care (CWGSMHC) to provide guidance to providers, administrators, educators, researchers, and funders to accelerate the introduction of more standardized, evidence-supported approaches to care, and to enhance our understanding of the role of collaboration in addressing wider issues facing any health care system. Article
    2023 “Collaborative mental health care: Engaging health systems to support a team-based approach” A commentary emphasizing key elements from the position paper as it relates to family medicine, providing practical tips for family physicians to support collaborative care in their practice. CFP article
    2018 Best Advice guide: Recovery-Oriented Mental Health and Addiction Care in the Patient’s Medical Home Provides guidance to family physicians and their teams offering mental health and addiction treatment services using a recovery-oriented approach

    Web page

    Full PDF

    Summary guide PDF

    N/A CFPC/CPA Collaborative Mental Health Care Awards Highlight important work being done in in Canada to improve access to effective mental health care, enhance mental health service delivery, and increase family physicians’ capacity to identify and meet the mental health care needs of their patients Web page
  • Occupational Medicine

    Chair: Dr. Burton McCann (Nova Scotia)
    Vice Chair: Dr. Alfredo Tura (British Columbia)


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Occupational Medicine MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2023 Best Advice guide: Resources and Considerations in Providing Care to Veterans, 2nd Edition The document highlights considerations to address the key health needs of Veteran patients while sharing best practices, practical tips, and more patient-centric resources, including inserts on equity-seeking and under-represented Veteran groups. Book
    2020 Clinical Snippet: Handling patient requests for accommodation at work related to the COVID-19 pandemic   PDF
    2018 Clinical snippets ebook A compilation of clinical snippets written by members of the Occupational Medicine Member Interest Group, covering topics such as identifying occupational health hazards, concussion in the workplace, and the family physician’s role in return to work. PDF
  • Palliative Care

    Chair: Dr. Carmen Johnson (Saskatchewan)
    Vice Chair: vacant


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Palliative Care MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2022 Delirium at End of Life: The dying brain New research has improved new insights into the pathophysiology of neurotransmitter derangement in the delirious brain. Hear how these derangements contribute to the morbidity and mortality of delirium. Podcast
    2018 Speak Up! Advance Care Planning Infographic Developed in collaboration with Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association to increase awareness among family physicians about advance care planning and help start conversations with patients about this subject PDF
  • Prison Health

    Chair: Dr. Nooshin Nikoo (British Columbia)
    Vice Chair: vacant


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    Resources developed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the Prison Health MIG:
    Year Title Description Links
    2022 Caring for Patients Who Are Detained in Community Settings In this episode of Family Medicine Rounds, Dr. Claire Bodkin explores how racism, colonization, and other forms of oppression shape who is seeking health care while detained by law enforcement, and how family physicians can provide high-quality care to this patient population. Podcast
    2020 Position Statement on Access to Opioid Agonist Treatment  

    Web page

    PDF (Information release)

    2019 CFPC Position Statement: A call to limit the detention of immigrants  

    PDF

    2017 CFPC endorsed CCPHE document Guidelines for Family Physicians Working with Formerly Incarcerated People   PDF
    Original: 2016
    Reviewed: 2022
    Position Statement on Healthcare Service Delivery in Prison   PDF
    Original: 2016
    Reviewed: 2022
    Position Statement on Solitary Confinement   PDF
    2016 Best Practices for the Recruitment and Retention of Physicians in Correctional Facilities   PDF
    2016 Working as a Physician in Correctional Facilities in Canada   PDF

News and Events

The MIGS is seeking for new Chairs and Vice-Chairs to lead different groups. This is an excellent leadership opportunity.

Current leadership vacancies are:
  • Addiction Medicine Chair
  • Cancer Care Vice-Chair
  • Developmental Disabilities Vice-Chair
  • Enhanced Surgical Skills Chair and Vice-Chair
  • Health and Environment Vice-Chair
  • Palliative Care Vice-Chair
  • Prison Health Vice-Chair
All member interest groups are always seeking for executive members to support the Chairs and the Vice-Chairs.

Join a leadership role

New e-book will help enhance your confidence and skills in MSK examination techniques

Medical students and family medicine residents receive minimal training on how to perform practical musculoskeletal (MSK) examination techniques during their formal training. Upon graduation, approximately 60 per cent of cases seen by a new family physician will be MSK-related (Brennan Jr et al. 2021).

Clinical Evaluation of the Musculoskeletal System: A Guide for Family Physicians is an e-book created by Dr. Teresa De Freitas and Dr. Contance Lebrun from the Sport and Exercise Member Interest Group. Its aim is to enhance physician confidence and skills in performing MSK physical examination techniques and aid in diagnosing MSK-related injuries without the need for additional (and possibly unnecessary) referrals to specialists.

The goal is to have improved patient care with more accurate and timely diagnoses of MSK-related patient concerns.

Download the e-book now!

What you get:
  • Free, downloadable e-book
  • Over 200 videos focused on MSK practical examination techniques
  • Case studies to test your knowledge
  • Improved patient care with accurate and timely diagnoses of MSK-related patient concerns

MiGroups: Your online community

MiGroups, our secure, private, online space, is where the heart of our community beats. If you haven’t yet joined, now is the perfect time to be a part of this thriving hub of collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Here’s why MiGroups is an invaluable resource for you:
  • Connect and collaborate: Interact with fellow members, foster connections, and collaborate on projects and ideas
  • Enriching discussions: Engage in meaningful conversations, share your expertise, learn from others, and stay up to date on the latest guidelines and trends in your field
  • Exclusive content: Access articles, research insights, event updates, and relevant news curated specifically for your area of interest
  • Events and opportunities: Be the first to know about events, webinars, and continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities tailored to your interests and career growth
  • Stay in the loop: Receive updates, announcements, and relevant news directly within the MiGroups community

MIGS Annual Report and Strategic Plan 2020–2025

MIGS Strategic Plan 2020–2025

We are excited to announce the release of the first strategic plan of the Member Interest Groups Section (MIGS), which covers the period of 2020 to 2025. MIGS was created through a redesign of the Section of Communities of Practice in Family Medicine. Our areas of focus have been streamlined to encompass thought leadership, practice support, education/training, and policy/advocacy. We look forward to implementing this plan to continue supporting each of you in your practice.
 


We are proud to support Let’s Clear the Air; a new campaign to raise awareness about the importance of breathing tests for those with suspected asthma or COPD.

 

This initiative aims to encourage thoughtful conversations between clinicians and patients who have received a diagnosis of asthma or COPD. The goal is to avoid unnecessary treatment and misdiagnosis that can occur without a proper breathing test.

To help get these conversations started, resources have been developed for patients and clinicians.
 


How do I join the Member Interest Groups Section?

To join the Member Interest Groups Section please follow the steps listed below. There will be no added fees or other requirements expected of you to become part of this College activity. You will receive a welcome email inviting you to sign up for MiGroups and informing you that you’ve been added to the MIGS contact list to receive our newsletter and other important information.

  1. Log into your account through the CFPC Portal.
  2. Go to “My Account.”
  3. Select “Account Preferences.”
  4. Click “Sections.” All member interest groups are listed there and you can choose any or all from the list that you would be interested in joining.

Criteria and Application Request Form to Establish a New Member Interest Group

Do you have an idea for a new member interest group for the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC)? We’ve developed a new form to guide you through the application process.

The CFPC created the Member Interest Groups Section (MIGS) to connect members with similar practice interests. We currently have 21 member interest groups that give family physicians opportunities to share information and develop helpful practice tools. But because family medicine is a dynamic field, we recognize that emerging topics may arise that could warrant the establishment of new member interest groups. This is your opportunity to help shape the future.

Our application form provides the criteria that the CFPC and the MIGS Council will use to review proposals for new member interest groups. We designed the questions to help you explain the need for a new member interest group, demonstrate support for its creation, and provide examples of the kind of work the group would do.

If you have any questions about the form or the criteria, please contact [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!

Frequently asked questions

  • How does the MIGs serve me?

    • By building networks of members within these domains of practice to enable communication and to share information
    • By developing policies relevant to these areas of practice
    • By advocating on behalf of family physicians who include the area of care in their practices
    • By recommending and developing continuing professional development activities, including for the Annual Scientific Assemblies

    Assembly program at Family Medicine Forum

    • By serving as a resource for the Section of Teachers regarding core content for the family medicine residency curriculum
    • By assisting with practice support tools and policies to enhance the practice life of members
  • How do I join the MIGS?

    1. Go to your CFPC membership portal or click the yellow “Login” button in the top right of any page on the CFPC website.
    2. Select the “My Account” tab, and the “My Profile” section on the dashboard.
    3. Scroll down to the “Areas of Interest” section and click the pencil icon to edit your selections. Select “Yes” in the drop-down list under Member Interest Groups Section (MIGS) and add your Area(s) of Interest by highlighting the selected area in the Available box and clicking the right-pointing arrow to move it to the Chosen box. (Any selections can be removed by highlighting the selected area in the Chosen box and clicking the left-pointing arrow to move it back to Available).
    4. Once you add any Area(s) of Interest you need to save your changes using the Save button.
  • How do I join MiGroups?

    Don’t miss out on the incredible opportunity to connect, collaborate, and grow with our community on MiGroups. We encourage you to join and be part of the conversations happening now!

    Create your account on MiGroups (powered by TimedRight) by visiting the website or by downloading the mobile app (iOS only).

    Explore the various groups available and join the ones that interest you.

    Watch our videos on how to use the different functionalities of MiGroups.

  • How do I establish a new member interest group?

    Do you have an idea for a new member interest group? We’ve developed a new form to guide you through the application process.

    The CFPC created the Member Interest Groups Section (MIGS) to connect members with similar practice interests. The groups give family physicians opportunities to share information and develop helpful practice tools. But because family medicine is a dynamic field, we recognize that topics may arise that could warrant establishing new member interest groups. This is your opportunity to help shape the future.

    If you have any questions about the form or the criteria, please contact [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!

  • What’s the difference between, or the connection with, the MIGS and CACs?

    There is no direct link between Certificates of Added Competence (CACs) and the MIGS. A CAC is a certificate issued in recognition of specific competencies in a domain of care. The MIGS is a much broader entity: a home within the College for those physicians who belong to an identifiable member interest group. You do not have to possess a CAC to be part of a MIG, nor do you have to belong to a MIG to hold a CAC. Read more about CACs.

Contact us

 
  1. You can reach the MIGS team at [email protected].
  2. Contact the CFPC by phone at (905) 629-0900 or 1-800-387-6197 and ask for the MIGS team.

MIGS team

  • Victor Ng, MD, CCFP (EM), MSc, MHPE – Director, Programs and Practice Support
  • Stephanie Truelove, PhD, PMP – MIGS Project Manager
  • André Girouard - MIGS Engagement Coordinator
  • Rania Alalem – MIGS Coordinator

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