Hosted by Dr. Sarah Cook, President of the College of Family Physicians of Canada, the series Family Medicine Matters shares real stories and practical solutions from the front lines of family medicine. Each episode features insightful conversations with inspiring guests who strengthen care, support our profession, and build a healthier future for everyone in Canada.
The Family Medicine Matters podcast is Mainpro+® certified.
Family physicians in Canada can earn Mainpro+ Certified activity credits for this podcast series. To claim credits, review the overall learning objectives and certification requirements on the CFPC website (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/about-us/leadership-corner), then review the episode-specific learning objectives, listen to the podcast episode, and complete the course evaluation included in each podcast episode description.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
Publisher
The College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC), Dr. Sarah Cook
Dr. Mark Sanders on rebuilding joy in family medicine through compassionate leadership
The pressures of longitudinal care and a strained health care system can make joy in practice feel out of reach for many family physicians. Dr. Mark Sanders—a family physician in Duncan, British Columbia, with nearly three decades of experience—shares how Indigenous teachings on compassionate leadership helped shape his clinic’s supportive, relationship-centred model. Listen as he explores how actionable values, psychological safety, and intentional connection can strengthen teams, improve patient care, and renew a sense of joy in family medicine.
If you’re a family physician in Canada and would like to earn Mainpro+® credits, review the learning objectives (https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.surveymonkey.ca%2Fr%2F5WXJ3Z2&data=05%7C02%7Cmolarewaju%40cfpc.ca%7C91c7cd56ad054c5b1f9608df1a4f680a%7Cd948307afaa5496886d914a2163ee39d%7C0%7C0%7C639258600497644209%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=F%2BjTlqOQi3opgM7UiVpCujDnSCmDN6HHePPqHrNhT6Q%3D&reserved=0) and disclosures, and complete the online course evaluation (https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.surveymonkey.ca%2Fr%2F5WXJ3Z2&data=05%7C02%7Cmolarewaju%40cfpc.ca%7C91c7cd56ad054c5b1f9608df1a4f680a%7Cd948307afaa5496886d914a2163ee39d%7C0%7C0%7C639258600497644209%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=F%2BjTlqOQi3opgM7UiVpCujDnSCmDN6HHePPqHrNhT6Q%3D&reserved=0).
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
1 Sept 2026
Dr. Cian O’Morain on easing the burden of care through shared responsibility
For many family physicians, the daily pressure of paperwork and complex care can be overwhelming. Dr. Cian O’Morain—a rural family physician—shares how his Prince Edward Island practice shifted from a physician-centred model to one built on shared team responsibility, supported by physician leadership. Listen as he explores how developing clinical algorithms, open communication, and trust across the health care team can improve access, strengthen chronic disease management, and restore sustainability to family practices.
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
4 Aug 2026
Major-General Scott Malcolm on using military lessons to strengthen civilian family medicine
As Canada’s health care system faces growing strain, Major-General Scott Malcolm—family physician and Surgeon General of the Canadian Armed Forces—shares what civilian family medicine can learn from the military health care system. Listen as he explores leadership in health care teams and preparing for future challenges, and reflects on how trust, collaboration, and resilience can strengthen care for patients and communities.
Learn more about the Exercise Canada Paratus Post-Exercise Report (https://cimvhr.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/exercise-canada-paratus-post-exercise-report.pdf)
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
20 Jul 2026
Dr. Rashaad Bhyat on Interoperability and Building Smarter Digital Systems in Healthcare
Across Canada, family medicine continues to navigate digital transformation. Dr. Rashaad Bhyat—family physician and nationally recognized digital health leader and expert—shares how smarter, better-connected systems can reduce administrative burden and strengthen continuity of care. Listen as he explores the promise of interoperability, the practical potential of AI-powered tools, and the policy changes needed to help family doctors deliver safer, more proactive care.
Learn more about the resources mentioned:
Pan-Canadian Patient Summary: https://infoscribe.infoway-inforoute.ca/spaces/PCI/pages/149160290/pan-Canadian+Patient+Summary+PS-CA (https://infoscribe.infoway-inforoute.ca/spaces/PCI/pages/149160290/pan-Canadian+Patient+Summary+PS-CA)
International Patient Summary: https://international-patient-summary.net/ (https://international-patient-summary.net/)
Toronto Metropolitan University School of Medicine: https://www.torontomu.ca/about/decade-of-transformation/medical-school/ (https://www.torontomu.ca/about/decade-of-transformation/medical-school/)
2025 Canadian Medical Student Digital Health Survey results: https://insights.infoway-inforoute.ca/2025-canadian-medical-student-digital-health-survey (https://insights.infoway-inforoute.ca/2025-canadian-medical-student-digital-health-survey)
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
1 Jul 2026
Dr. Élise Boulanger on Co-Designing Technology to Better Support Family Medicine
As the family medicine landscape evolves with new technology, Dr. Élise Boulanger—Quebec family physician and digital health advocate—shares how co-designed technology can better support family doctors, patients, and primary care teams. Listen as she explores the Care for Tech initiative, the risks of digital burden, and the role of family doctors in shaping tools that strengthen, rather than disrupt, care.
Learn more about Care for Tech: https://www.soignonslatech.ca/a-propos (https://www.soignonslatech.ca/a-propos)
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
1 Jun 2026
Dr. Jamaica Cass on trust, healing, and equity in Indigenous health
Across Canada, family medicine is evolving to meet complex challenges. Dr. Jamaica Cass—Mohawk family physician and health leader—shares how Indigenous‑led, relationship‑based care is making a difference for Indigenous health across Canada. Listen as she explores culturally safe, team‑based primary care and the role of family medicine in supporting Indigenous self‑determination, trust, and healing.
Access the resources mentioned in this episode:
Indigenous Health Supplement: https://www.cfpc.ca/CFPC/media/PDF/CanMEDS-IndigenousHS-ENG-web.pdf (https://www.cfpc.ca/CFPC/media/PDF/CanMEDS-IndigenousHS-ENG-web.pdf)
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Call to Justice Final Report: https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1717103903695/1757441810573 (https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1717103903695/1757441810573)
In Plain Sight Report: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/app/uploads/sites/613/2020/11/In-Plain-Sight-Summary-Report.pdf (https://engage.gov.bc.ca/app/uploads/sites/613/2020/11/In-Plain-Sight-Summary-Report.pdf)
Indigenous Health Curriculum Renewal Workbook: email academicfm@cfpc.ca (mailto:academicfm@cfpc.ca) to request access to the pre-released version
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
4 May 2026
Dr. Johnny Chang on turning a rural physician crisis into a recruitment success
As family medicine in Canada faces unprecedented strain, Dr. Johnny Chang—rural family physician and medical leader—shares how Creston, British Columbia, transformed chronic physician shortages into a recruitment success. Listen as he explores flexibility, physician-led leadership, community partnership, and the importance of listening to doctors as keys to building sustainable, high-quality care in rural communities.
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
1 Apr 2026
Dr. Seyi Akinola on the importance of international medical graduates
As the Canadian population grows and patient care becomes more complex, Dr. Seyi Akinola—family physician, educator, and advocate—discusses the pivotal role international medical graduates play in strengthening comprehensive primary care. Listen in as she explores the balance between maintaining high standards and improving integration, the power of allyship and community, and her hopes for the future of family medicine. Learn more about Dr. Akinola’s IMG Chronicles: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPd8hRNZ3gRpF3C_mE673IQ (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPd8hRNZ3gRpF3C_mE673IQ)
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
2 Mar 2026
Dr. Emmett Harrison on mobilizing the Patient's Medical Home
Dr. Sarah Cook sits down with Dr. Emmett Harrison to explore how he’s integrated the Patient’s Medical Home vision into his clinic—from next-level team huddles to allied health professional integration. He shares how this approach improves patient access, streamlines care and reduces administrative burden.
Additional Resources:
Explore the Patient's Medical Home Discovery Café Express (https://www.saskhealthauthority.ca/intranet/departments-programs/integrated-health/primary-health-care/primary-care/patients-medical-home/patients-medical-home-resources), which includes a curated selection of brief resources
To request access to a full comprehensive version, email pmh@saskhealthauthority.ca with the subject line: SHA External Organization Link
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
12 Feb 2026
Dr. Nick Pimlott on his love for family medicine
In this special Valentine’s Day episode, Dr. Sarah Cook speaks with Canadian Family Physician Editor Dr. Nick Pimlott about his love of family medicine. Dr. Pimlott reflects on his career and explores why it remains a profession like no other.
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
2 Feb 2026
Dr. Gary Bloch on social prescribing
What if treating patients meant addressing their social needs too? In this episode, Dr. Sarah Cook speaks with Dr. Gary Bloch about social prescribing. It’s an innovative model that brings community and social supports into health care. They discuss how addressing the social determinants of health can improve patient outcomes while also supporting physicians. You can learn more about the work Dr. Gary Bloch is doing by exploring St. Michael's Academic Family Health Team Social Interventions Booklet (https://unityhealth.to/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/SDOH-at-SMHAFHT.pdf). You can also contact Dr. Bloch at Gary.bloch@utoronto.ca (mailto:Gary.bloch@utoronto.ca).
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
7 Jan 2026
Dr. Kerri Treherne on expanding access through intentional team building
Canada’s health care system is under strain, with many patients unable to access a family doctor. In this episode, Dr. Sarah Cook sits down with Dr. Kerri Treherne, a Calgary-based family physician, to reflect on her work within a non-profit community health centre and explore what intentional team-based care means. It’s more than putting people together. When done well, they can improve access to care.
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
3 Dec 2025
Dr. Tia Pham on the power of team-based care
Sixty per cent of British Columbia’s residents are without a family physician. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for bold solutions to improve access to primary care. In this episode, Dr. Tia Pham sits down with CFPC President Dr. Sarah Cook to explore innovative team-based care approaches that improve access to care and enhance patient outcomes.
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
30 Oct 2025
Dr. Sarah Newbery on driving change in family medicine
Dr. Sarah Cook speaks with rural family physician Dr. Sarah Newbery, from Marathon, Ontario, about how team-based care helps meet community needs sustainably. They discuss how doctors working closely together build a strong culture that drives meaningful change, and why family medicine is so important to our health care system.
This podcast series is eligible for non-certified Mainpro+ credits. Participants may also earn additional Certified Assessment credits by completing a Linking Learning (https://www.cfpc.ca/en/education-professional-development/cpd-at-cfpc/linking-learning-exercises) exercise.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The CFPC or the interviewer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other advice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
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