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Build your skills and find community: Join a PHP physician support group in 2026
The Physician Health Program (PHP) has opened registration for several virtual physician-only support groups, scheduled to begin in 2026.
Delivered on Zoom, these free groups help physicians, residents, and medical students navigate life’s challenges and build skills in a community setting.
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Learn CBT techniques to manage anxiety, depression, and stress
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia: Explore your relationship to sleep and learn how to improve it using CBT skills
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Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC): Join your peers in a culturally safe, non-judgemental space to explore identity, workplace challenges, and shared lived experiences.
Visit the PHP support group registration page to learn more, view all of the 2026 session dates and times, and secure your place.
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Nominations now open: 2026 BC Rural Health Awards
The Rural Coordination Centre of BC (RCCbc), supported by the Joint Standing Committee on Rural Issues (JSC), presents the BC Rural Health Awards each spring to recognize and honour rural physicians, communities and residents for their inspiring contributions to improving the health of rural people and communities across BC. Nominations for the 2026 BC Rural Health Awards are now open. The deadline for nominations is Monday, December 15, 2025.
The categories are:
The awards will be presented at the BC Rural Health Conference in Prince George, May 29-31, 2026. For any questions, contact communications@rccbc.ca.
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Save the Date: 25th Annual BC Endocrine Day Conference
The Endocrine Research Society, led by Dr. Monika Pawlowska and Dr. Adam White (UBC Division of Endocrinology), invites you to the 25th Annual BC Endocrine Day on May 8th, 2026 at the Vancouver Holiday Inn Centre (Broadway).
Join a line-up of expert speakers covering a range of endocrinology topics, including interactive case-based reviews of common clinical problems. The event is designed for family physicians, nurse practitioners, endocrinologists, internal medicine physicians, medical trainees, and allied health professionals.
Click for more info & registration
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Updated Prescribed Alternatives policy
The province of BC’s new policy for prescribed alternatives has been released. The policy will take effect on December 30, 2025, and requires prescribed alternatives to be witnessed by health professionals.
The British Columbia Centre on Substance Use (BCCSU) has developed a clinical bulletin to support prescribers in interpreting the application of this new policy in clinical settings.
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Advanced access, real results: How one Surrey clinic cut patient wait times from weeks to days
A Surrey clinic is proving small changes can make a big impact. Discover how BC family doctors are using Advanced Access & Office Efficiency supports from the FPSC Practice Support Program (PSP) to improve patient care and clinic workflows, dramatically reducing wait times, boosting efficiency, and creating better experiences for patients and providers alike.
Read the story here.
For more information about FPSC's practice support program, please email us at psp@doctorsofbc.ca, or submit a service request here.
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Register Now! Webinar: Early Pregnancy and Pregnancy Loss in Primary Care
In collaboration with UBC CPD, the Perinatal Community of Practice is pleased to offer this free, accredited webinar for primary care providers:
Early Pregnancy and Pregnancy Loss in Primary Care: Confident, Compassionate Care
Jan. 27 (Tue) | 6:30-8:00 p.m. PT| Webinar
Overview: this session will provide practical, primary-care-focused strategies to help clinicians confidently diagnose and manage early pregnancy concerns. The panel will also explore compassionate approaches to care and supportive follow-up for individuals and families experiencing pregnancy loss.
By attending this webinar, you will be able to:
• Apply practical, primary-care-focused approaches to diagnosing and managing early pregnancy concerns, increasing comfort and clinical confidence.
• Interpret and integrate updated Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) and Perinatal Services BC guidelines on early pregnancy and pregnancy loss, with clear answers to commonly misunderstood areas.
• Identify and confidently use bereavement and support resources for individuals and families experiencing pregnancy loss.
LEARN MORE & REGISTER
Audience: family physicians, midwives, obstetricians, nurses, nurse practitioners, and health professionals who provide maternity care.
Up to 1.50 Mainpro+ / MOC Section 1 credits
Speakers:
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Moderator: Kathleen Ross MD, CFPC, Family Physician; Co-Chair for the Perinatal Community of Practice
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Panelist: Hayley Bos, MD, FRCSC, OB-GYN - Maternal Fetal Medicine in Victoria; Co-Chair for the Perinatal Community of Practice
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Panelist: Charlene Lui MD, CFPC, Family Physician; Past-President of the Doctors of BC (2025)
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Panelist: W. Kim MacDonald MD, FRCSC, OB-GYN - Maternal Fetal Medicine in Victoria
Acknowledgements:
This webinar is funded by the Shared Care Committee and Joint Collaborative Committees—a partnership of Doctors of BC and the BC Government—as part of the Perinatal Community of Practice (Perinatal CoP).
Interested in the Perinatal Community of Practice?
Visit our website to explore our ongoing work and recent engagement event!
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Support for Cancer Patients Travelling for Cancer Treatment
Travelling for cancer treatment can be challenging and costly—even for those going a short distance. The Canadian Cancer Society’s Travel Treatment Fund helps ease the financial burden by providing support for eligible patients based on income and distance traveled. Assistance is also available for patients relocating for bone marrow transplant or CAR-T therapy. Help support cancer patients offset the cost of travelling for treatment by sharing information about the Canadian Cancer Society’s Travel Treatment Fund, additional air/ground transportation and accommodation programs that may be available.
For more information please visit Cancer Travel and Accommodation Services – British Columbia | Canadian Cancer Society or call 1-888-939-3333.
We’re here to help.
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Reducing Poverty Initiative - Fall 2025 Newsletter
Fall 2025 edition of the Reducing Poverty Initiative (RPI) Newsletter!
Please click here.
In this issue, you’ll find highlights on:
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The impact of the program to date
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A participant testimonial
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An introduction to the CDMP Gold Standard Guide
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Helpful resources, including our new video on the importance of early intervention in disability management
We are proud of what has been accomplished so far, and will continue to deepen our research, strengthen partnerships, and refine a model that can inform policy and practice across Canada
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Updates to 2025 FPSC Assigned Inpatient Care Network and Maternity Care Network Payments
On Friday, FPSC announced upcoming changes to FPSC Network Payments for inpatient care and pregnancy and newborn care via an FPSC Special Update.
Please note: The 2025 FPSC Network payment claim form is now closed. Eligible physicians will receive an invitation to submit their annual claim form in January 2026. This form may also be used to retroactively submit claims for any payment periods from April 1, 2025 onward that were not previously claimed in 2025.
As of April 1, 2026, the payment amount will be increasing from $2100 per quarter to $3200 per quarter ($8400 to $12,800 per year) with the Rural Retention Program fee premium applied to eligible rural communities.
Please visit the FPSC website here for more information or contact fp.billing@doctorsofbc.ca with any questions.
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BC Family Doctors 2026 membership and renewal is now open
BC Family Doctors 2026 membership can now be renewed through the Doctors of BC website. Log into your account and add BC Family Doctors in the Sections and Societies area. Renew before March 31, 2026 to maintain uninterrupted access to all member benefits and resources.
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Cardiac Services BC heart failure toolkit
A new toolkit developed by Cardiac Services BC is available to support BC health care providers with the safe and timely prescribing of medications for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).
Guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) improves quality of life and reduces mortality and hospitalizations for people living with HFrEF. It is estimated that only 1 in 4 eligible people in BC with this condition are receiving guideline-recommended medications.
Access the toolkit.
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Upcoming Webinars & Events
Ask The Expert: Documentation & Digital Practice Essentials
Presented by the Fraser Northwest Division of Family Practice Society
Tuesday, January 13: Register for the webinar.
Family Practice Oncology Network (FPON) Webinar: Breast Cancer Screening and Breast Density
Presented by UBC CPD
Thursday, January 15: Register for the webinar.
Nawh whu’nus’en - We see in two worlds: Trauma sensitive practices for collectively healing in relationship (Level 1)
Presented by UBC CPD
Monday, January 19: Register for the webinar.
Rural Rounds: Frostbite Management in Rural Care
Presented by UBC CPD
Wednesday, January 21: Register for the webinar.
Supporting Clients on Long-term Opioid Agonist Treatment (OAT): Considerations for Primary Care Providers
Presented by BC ECHO
Thursday, January 29: Register for the webinar.
Community of Practice: Green Acts for Big Impact
Presented by RCCbc
Friday, January 30: Register for the webinar.
Thriving Project | Thriving Together – Bringing Spirit Back Into Medicine
Presented by RCCbc
Wednesday, February 18: Register for the webinar.
HOUSE OB Regional Course - Courtenay
Presented by UBC CPD
Sunday, March 29: Register for the workshop.
Rural Rural Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) Congress 2.0
Presented by UBC CPD
Thursday, May 28: Register for the event.
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APPLAUD is Expanding in Western Canada
Health Quality BC is partnering with the Canadian Alcohol Use Disorder Society to launch the third iteration of the Approaches and Pharmacotherapies for Patients Living with Alcohol Use Disorder (APPLAUD) Action Series – now open to primary care teams in BC and Alberta.
In this five-month action series, beginning in February 2026, teams will explore evidence-informed approaches using practical tools to screen, diagnose, and treat alcohol use disorder (AUD) in primary care. By connecting to peers and experts, teams will build confidence to enhance AUD care and supports for individuals and families.
Funding to participate is available for clinicians and medical office assistants. The registration deadline is January 23, 2026. If you have any questions, email substanceuse@healthqualitybc.ca
Apply Today
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Integrated Care for Substance Use & Eating Disorders
Two new resources are available through the Provincial Eating Disorders and Substance Use Working Group to support health care practitioners working with patients with concurrent substance use and eating disorder issues. These provide information to enhance health providers’ knowledge, skills, and confidence in delivering care.
Interested in learning more or receiving additional training on integrated care for substance use and eating disorder care?
Fill out the expression of interest form.
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Update on penicillin allergy de-labelling project: A BC-led initiative improves care and cuts costs
Over 90% of people who think they’re allergic to penicillin aren’t. Learn how allergists, family doctors, pharmacists, and nurses are working together to safely remove incorrect allergy labels to open better treatment options, lower costs, and improve patient care.
Read the story here.
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Research study: Improving Access to Specialist Care for Rural Communities
Primary care providers are invited to participate in a research study aimed at understanding experiences in providing care in rural BC communities. Honorarium will be provided to participants. Learn more here or email Alison Irvine at airvine@rccbc.ca for information and to participate.
This project is led by Principal Investigator, Dr. Denise Jaworsky and supported by the Joint Standing Committee on Rural Issues and the Specialist Services Committee, partnerships of Doctors of BC and the Government of BC.
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Call for nominations for BC Rural Health Awards
Nominations for the 2026 BC Rural Health Awards are open until Monday, January 5, 2026. These annual Rural Coordination Centre of BC (RCCbc) awards honour rural physicians, communities, and residents who are improving rural health in BC. RCCbc is funded by the Joint Standing Committee on Rural Issues, one of four committees that are a partnership between Doctors of BC and the BC Government.
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Share your experiences to help shape EDI in BC medicine
Doctors of BC needs your feedback to ensure our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) strategy incorporates a broad spectrum of physician voices in the province. During November and December, members are invited to participate in a range of hour-long virtual small group listening sessions, including sessions tailored for Indigenous physicians, 2SLGBTQIA+ physicians, physicians with disabilities, those with caregiving responsibilities, rural and remote physicians, and others. Optional 30-minute individual virtual interviews are also available. The interviews and listening sessions are completely private and facilitated by Canadian
Equality Consulting (CEC), ensuring confidentiality so you can share your thoughts freely. Physicians who take part will be compensated at standard sessional rates. Sign up now and share your thoughts. If you have a question, please email isar.edi@doctorsofbc.ca.
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JCC Conference summaries
Thanks to everyone who participated in the JCC Conference on October 6 and 7 in Vancouver. This year’s conference highlighted the pan-JCC impact and deep connections between our committees. View the JCC Showcase Post Event Report here. If you’d like more information on the conference panels, presentations, storyboard awards, or to see the photo gallery, please visit the conference resources webpage.
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Details about Novari Medical Imaging Requisition Management (MIRM)
Island Health is pleased to announce the upcoming implementation of the Novari Medical Imaging Requisition Management (MIRM) platform in February 2026; a digital solution designed to modernize and streamline outpatient imaging requisition workflows.
Go-Live Dates:
North/Central Island (Nanaimo and North): February 23, 2026
South Island (Ladysmith and South): March 2, 2026
Please see the following attachments for more details:
Novari Poster
MyHealth Registration Poster
What is Changing?
You will continue to fax requisitions to the existing Island Health fax numbers. From there, requisitions will be digitized and placed into a centralized booking system. Novari MIRM replaces traditional paper-based processes with a centralized electronic system that integrates with Cerner and provides real-time updates. This transition will enhance transparency, reduce administrative burden, and improve scheduling efficiency across all imaging sites. Please note that Novari MIRM is designed exclusively for outpatient imaging requisitions and does not apply to inpatient or emergency department workflows.
Key benefits for community providers include:
Real-time fax confirmations for requisition receipt, and appointment booking
Centralized access to requisitions across Island Health sites
Reduced risk of lost paperwork and faster turnaround times
Improved communication with patients through email and SMS notifications (for those registered with MyHealth)
Continued phone notifications for patients not registered with MyHealth to ensure inclusivity
Patient Communication:
At go-live, patients registered for MyHealth will begin receiving electronic notifications (texts/emails) with appointment details and preparation instructions.
Patients not registered for MyHealth will continue to be contacted by phone.
Please encourage your patients to register for MyHealth to receive the most up-to-date appointment information and preparation instructions.
Thank you for your continued partnership in improving patient care across our region.
Jeff Beresford
Director
Medical Imaging, Island Health
Dr. J. Alan Andrew, MD FRCPC
Department Head and Medical Director
Medical Imaging, Island Health
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Quality Team Coaching for Rural BC 2026/2027 cohort
Applications are now open for rural health care teams to participate in the RCCbc Quality Team Coaching for Rural BC (QTC4RBC) coaching program. The program empowers rural health care teams to regroup, reconnect with their purpose, and build their desired team culture.
Apply here.
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Training opportunity: UBC enhanced skills clinician scholar program
The UBC Enhanced Skills Clinician Scholar Program is currently seeking applicants to begin in July 2026. The program offers physicians the opportunity to continue their clinical work while also focusing on scholarly projects. It is an established, accredited Category 1 program that is completed at 50% FTE over a 2-year period. The program can be completed remotely, without in-person requirements.
To apply, please visit the UBC Clinician Scholar Program webpage. Questions can be emailed to Lindsay Gowland at lindsay.gowland@familymed.ubc.ca.
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Upcoming Webinars & Events
Managing risk, isolation, and respect in the workplace
Presented by Doctors of BC & SWITCHBC
December 2: Register for the webinar
Why a billing audit? The process and common billing pitfalls
Presented by Doctors of BC with Dr Janet Evans & Dr Paul Hertz
December 3: Register for the webinar
LTCI Learning Series - Deprescribing and appropriate uses of antibiotics in Long-term Care
Presented by Victoria & South Island Long-Term Care Initiative (LTCI) with Bryan Chow & Ashley Price from Health Quality BC
December 3: Register for the webinar (open to all LTCI family physicians across BC)
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Oceanside Hospice Society
The Oceanside Hospice Society serves individuals and families experiencing end-of-life, care-giving and bereavement in the area stretching from Deep Bay to Nanoose, and west to Errington and Whiskey Creek
We strive to provide links in the continuum of care by supporting care giving at home, in hospital or the palliative care unit at Trillium and at community care facilities.
Please contact us at 250.752.6227 or visit www.oceansidehospice.com for further information.
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Divisions Dispatch
The latest news from the provincial team and complementary organizations.
Please click here for updates including:
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LFP Payment Model updates
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Webinars and continuing medical education (CME)
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Divisions in the News
Divisions in the News
See what is going on in other divisions around BC:
https://divisionsbc.ca/provincial/news-and-events
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