Practicing Well Community of Practice

Under Section 203 of the Highway Traffic Act, physicians have mandatory reporting requirements for high risk medical conditions, visual impairments, and functional impairments that make it dangerous for a person to drive. These decisions are mandated and can cause a great deal of stress for both the patient and the physician and can challenge their therapeutic relationship. We'll explore how to have these conversations with skill, involve the right supports, and preserve, or even strengthen,  the physician-patient relationship. The session will also create space to acknowledge and address the emotional and professional toll these decisions take on family doctors. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Justin McCarthy Dr. Katarina Lakovic Moderator: Dr. Chase McMurren, Assistant Professor, Department of Family & Community Medicine at the University of Toronto Co-Host: Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University

When a patient discloses thoughts of self‑harm or harm to others, family physicians are often faced with one of the most complex and high‑stakes decisions in clinical practice: whether to complete a Form 1. In this session, our panelists will unpack the Ontario legal framework behind Form 1, what "reasonable grounds" and "serious bodily harm" actually look like in real office settings, and how to document and navigate these situations with confidence. We'll explore how to have these conversations with skill, involve the right supports, and preserve, or even strengthen,  the physician-patient relationship. The session will also create space to acknowledge and address the emotional and professional toll these decisions take on family doctors. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Dr. Sean Moore Brooke Smith Moderator: Dr. Chase McMurren, Assistant Professor, Department of Family & Community Medicine at the University of Toronto Co-Host: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON 

Supporting patients with return‑to‑work planning and related WSIB documentation, such as FAF forms, can be complex for family physicians, particularly when balancing clinical care with administrative demands. In this session, we will consider approaches to supporting patients in returning to full or modified duties in an efficient and practical manner. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Dr. Aaron Thompson Moderator: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON  Co-Host: Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University  

Many family physicians struggle with completing WSIB forms and advising patients on workplace injuries. This session will provide practical guidance on when to offer WSIB support, how to complete and bill forms, and how to counsel patients who fear employer repercussions. By improving your WSIB knowledge, you'll help patients access coverage and avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket costs.  The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Dr. Aaron Thompson Dr. Craig Winsor Moderator: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON  Co-Host: Dr. Vanessa Reddit, Family Physician, Crossroads Clinic, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON This session took place on March 25 2026. A Video recording is also available

Insomnia is one of the most common issues family physicians see, but treating it effectively isn't always straightforward. While patients may initially look to medication for relief, the best evidence supports Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi) as the first-line treatment. This session will take you through how to assess insomnia properly, what CBTi can look like in your practice and which medications are safe when needed. Join us to feel more confident in helping your patients sleep better—safely and effectively. Panelists: Dr. Purti Papneja Dr. Colleen Carney Dr. Shayna Watson Moderator: Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University Co-Host Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON   This session took place on February 25 2026. A Video recording is also available

Many patients may enter pregnancy while managing existing mental health conditions, and others may develop symptoms postpartum. Given this, it's essential to understand how to screen and support these patients safely. In this session, our panel will walk you through practical ways to identify and treat common perinatal issues like depression, anxiety and ADHD—while keeping both parent and baby in mind. Panelists: Dr. Alison Shea Dr. Milena Forte Dr. Ariel Dalfen Moderator: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON  Co-Host: Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University   This session took place on January 28th 2026. A Video recording is also available

There is growing interest in the use of psychedelics for the treatment of PTSD, depression and substance use disorders. Patients may ask their provider about these options, but family physicians are unaware of the latest data on safety and efficacy or understand what services are available in Ontario. During this session, our panelist will discuss the current evidence for specific treatments in PTSD, depression and substance use disorders, including the limitations of the evidence and risks of these therapies, and pathways for referrals and treatment.  Panelists:  Dr. Monique Moller Dr. Sabrina Akhtar  Dr. Prachi Soneji  Moderator: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON  Co-Host:  Dr. Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health   This session took place on December 10 2025. A Video recording is also available

Collectively, physicians faced and/or continue to face a trauma related to caring for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, few family physicians have had the opportunity to collectively discuss this. During this session, our panelists will discuss their own experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and their coping strategies and the need for further exploration and support for family physicians. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Dr. Chase McMurren  Dr. Sarah Kim  Dr. Joan Chan  Moderator: Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University  Co-Host: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON   This session took place on November 26th 2025. A Video recording is also available

Since 2018, patients have been able to access medical cannabis that has been authorized by a physician who signs a medical document. New research supporting the therapeutic use, safety and efficacy on cannabis is only now emerging, which puts family physicians in a difficult position as they may be asked to authorize cannabis when they are not familiar with the process. During this session, our panelists will discuss the mechanics of authorizing cannabis, the evidence behind using cannabis for different medical conditions and resources available for family physicians.  Panelists: Dr. Gordon Arbess  Dr. Erin Lurie  Allan Carpenter  Moderator: Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University  Co-Host: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session took place on October 22nd 2025. A Video recording is also available

Administrative burden, including completing complex forms and reviewing EMRs are all contributing to burnout in family medicine. During this session, our panelists will discuss tricks to efficiently review EMRs, setting boundaries with patients, taking vacations and training your office staff to take on some of the burdensome tasks.    Panelists:  Dr. Neil Naik  Dr. Anish Mody  Dr. Samantha Lavitt  Co-Moderators: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON  Dr. Chandi Chandrasena MD CCFP FCFP, Family Physician, Chief Medical Officer of OntarioMD, Lecturer, Department of Family Medicine at UofOttawa This session took place on September 17th 2025. A Video recording is also available

Even if a family doctor makes the correct diagnosis and prescribes the most appropriate treatment to address an illness, if a patient is unable to access the treatment due to social or financial circumstances the patient will not improve. Other issues affecting health, such as social isolation or food insecurity are often a large factor contributing to ill health and family physicians are often ill equipped to know how to proceed. During this session, our panelists will discuss the general approach to social prescribing and the types of community-based programs family physicians should consider referring their patients to. Panelists: Dr. Ritika Goel Dr. Dominik Nowak  Dr. Luke Kyne  Co-Moderators:  Dr. Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health  Natasha Beaudin, Social Prescribing Project Lead, Alliance of Healthier Communities   This session took place on August 27th 2025. A Video recording is also available

New nicotine delivery systems, policies and evidence are evolving to include nicotine pouches, 'heat sticks', and vaping products. Family physicians may be unfamiliar with emerging products and evidence and unable to provide guidance to patients. During this session, our panelists will review these products and discuss the best advice for smoking cessation and harm reduction for patients who are not interested in quitting smoking. Panelists: - Dr. Peter Selby - Dr. Osnat Melamed  Moderator: - Dr. Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health  Co-Host: - Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session took place on July 23rd 2025. A Video recording is also available

New family doctors are often hesitant to continue prescribing opioids for patients, including to those who need opioids for pain management. However, opioids can be a helpful treatment for pain and it's important for family doctors to know how to prescribe them effectively. During this session, our panelists will discuss how stopping opioids suddenly can lead to withdrawal, when opioids can be used effectively and guidelines for safe prescribing.  Panelists: Dr. Mel Kahan - Dr. Suzanne Turner - Andrea Furlan Moderator: - Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON  Co-Host: - Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University This session took place on June 25th 2005. A Video recording is also available

The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits.   Panelists: - Dr. Samantha Green - Dr. Myles Sergeant - Dr. Marina Abdel Malak   Moderator: Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University   Co-host: Dr. Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health   This session took place on March 26th 2005. A Video recording is also available

  Evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of harm reduction interventions in improving health outcomes, building trust, and reducing substance-related harms. In this session, we explore the impact of SCS closures on family practice, focusing on the potential health sequelae and the importance of harm reduction-informed primary care. Our panel will include a lived experience perspective and will discuss what harm reduction-informed care looks like in practice, how closures and supply restrictions impact patient care, and strategies for family physicians to prepare and respond effectively. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and learn practical approaches to support patients and communities impacted by these closures. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Dr. Katie Dorman, Staff Physician, Substance Use Management Clinic, St. Michael's Hospital Academic Family Health Team; Assistant Professor, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto Jean-Paul Michael, Addictions Case Manager, St. Michael's Hospital Emergency Department Moderator: Dr. Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Co-host: Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University  This session took place on Wednesday February 26th 2025 A video recording is available

Chronic pain is widely recognized as a bio-psycho-social phenomenon, yet family physicians often rely solely on medication management strategies. Understanding the scientific role of biological, psychological and social factors in mediating chronic pain, as well as the resources available beyond medication management, can leave providers feeling more empowered in caring for patients with these issues. In this session, our panel will review the current understanding of the etiology of chronic pain, including its biological, psychological and social/environmental components and discuss non-pharmacologic strategies for managing all three. Psychological factors such as unhelpful beliefs, worries, fears, and avoidance behaviours, as well as resources to support patients in this area, will be addressed. Social factors like unsupportive work environments, stressful situations or insurance issues will also be covered. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Dr. Andrea Furlan Dr.Paul Hoogeveen Dr. Bryan MacLeod Moderator: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON Co-host: Dr. Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health This session originally took place on January 22, 2025. A recording can be viewed Here

Leaving or transitioning back into your practice, or decreasing your hours due to retirement, relocation, illness, or maternity leave can be challenging, especially amid the current family medicine crisis where patients struggle to find new family doctors and there is a shortage of locums. The difficulty in finding a locum, or the feeling of being unable to retire or take a leave of absence, can lead to increased physician burnout. Listen to this session as we explore resources that can help and hear from our panel as they share their experiences in finding locums or transitioning out of practice. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Dr. David White, Professor Emeritus, Family & Community Medicine, University of Toronto Dr. Samantha Lavitt, Family Physician, Rideau Crossing Family Health Centre; Lecturer and Community Preceptor, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine; Peer Guide, Ontario College of Family Physicians Dr. Eileen Nicolle, Family Physician- Midtown Health Home, Assistant Professor Queen's University Moderator: Dr. Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Co-host: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on December 11, 2024. A recording can be viewed here.

Due to current challenges in healthcare, there are often delays in getting referrals for children and youth with depression, leaving family physicians to manage their care. In this session, the panel provides family physicians with guidance for providing care and discuss evidence-based approaches to care, assessment tools and resources, treatment options and pathways for referrals. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Dr. Fereshte Lalani (Toronto) Dr. Anita Greig (Toronto) Dr. Naima Javaid, Staff Psychiatrist, Medical Head, Outpatient Child, Youth and Family Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health; Lecturer, Clinician Teacher, Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto Moderator: Dr. Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Co-host: Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University  This session originally took place on November 27, 2024. A recording can be viewed here.

AI and technology are changing the ways family doctors practice family medicine. This includes through the adoption of virtual visits and consults, and using AI to chart patient records, all of which family physicians need to stay up to date on. Listen to this session as our panel discusses how to integrate AI and technology into your practice, and maintain wellness in an increasingly virtual world. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Dr. Cody Jackson Ariane Siegel, General Counsel & Chief Privacy Officer at OntarioMD Moderator: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON Co-host: Dr. Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. This session originally took place on October 24, 2024. A recording can be viewed here.

Currently, there are long waitlists for free psychiatric assessments for adults with suspected ADHD, leaving patients unable to receive the necessary treatments. However, many family doctors are not comfortable with managing and diagnosing ADHD themselves. In this session, our panel discusses best practices for diagnosing and treating patients with ADHD in order to meet their patients' needs. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Dr. Kyle Lee, Toronto ON - Academic Family Physician, Sumac Creek Health Centre, St. Michael's Hospital, Assistant Professor, Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of Toronto   Dr. Devon Shewfelt, London, ON - Family Physician, Lead Physician - Old South Family Health Organization, Adjunct Professor - Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Physician Wellness Representative - Curriculum Committee - Family Medicine PGME, Lecturer, Small Group Facilitator - Professionalism, Careers, & Wellness Course - Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry Moderator: Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University Co-Host: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on September 18, 2024. You can view the recording here.

Family physicians are often seen as the safety net for the entire health care system. Family doctors frequently face pressures from hospitals, specialists, families, and patients to fill the endless gaps in health care. However, this overreliance on family doctors has caused burnout and unhealthy work habits. Listen to this session as our panel discusses provisions of safe care and setting boundaries with patients, specialists, colleagues and others. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Rupa Patel, Family Physician at the Kingston Community Health Centre, Assistant Professor, Queen's University Department of Family Medicine, Program Director, Women's Health Program, Kingston, ON Mary Rowland, Family Physician at the Kingston Community Health Centre, Assistant Professor, Queen's University Department of Family Medicine Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON Co-host: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health This session was originally recorded on July 31, 2024. You can view the recording here. 

In Canada, one in 300 people ages 15 and older are transgender or non-binary, meaning that most family doctors care for gender non-conforming people in their practice.  However, these patients face unique societal and medical barriers that put them at higher risk for mental health issues and higher than average suicide rates. Providing a safe environment and knowing how to access or provide gender affirming care is essential to address mental health needs of these communities of people. In this session, our panel shares their experiences in creating safe spaces for transgender and or non-binary patients and share resources that can help family doctors to support these patients. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Rahima Alani, Toronto, ON Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University Moderator: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Co-host: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on June 26, 2024. You can view the recording here. 

Rising rates of obesity and diabetes, drug shortages, patient demand and societal discussions around fat-shaming, have placed family physicians in a difficult position, at times acting as gatekeepers for medications, determining which patients should gain access to GLP-1 agonists. Broader societal discussion around what constitutes 'health' and 'overweight' may leave physicians feeling alone in grappling with these ethical decisions. Listen to our panel as they address their approach as stewards of these medications and share how they engage in these larger societal discussions. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Sean Wharton, MD, FRCPC, PharmD.  Assistant Professor University of Toronto, Clinician and Research in Obesity Medicine Stephanie Hart, Sexual Medicine physician and former full-scope rural family physician in southern Alberta Co-host: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on May, 22, 2024. A recording can be viewed here.

Harmful use of alcohol contributed to 17,000 deaths in Canada in 2020, with an estimated $6.3 billion spent that year on healthcare cost related to alcohol use. However, patients may be misinformed about the risks associated with alcohol use, how to reduce risk, or unaware of the first-line treatments available for alcohol use disorder. Family doctors often provide advice on reducing harms associated with alcohol use and need to be well-versed with the latest available information. In this session, panel highlights the new evidence in the Canadian guideline on the management of alcohol use disorder, the tools needed to counsel patients on the risks of alcohol consumption and the available evidence-based treatments. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Jennifer Wyman Alexander Caudarella Co-host: Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on April 17, 2024. A recording can be viewed here.

Patients with anxiety can often overuse health-care resources by presenting multiple health concerns to their physician. Family doctors can face difficulty if the cause of a patient's concern is anxiety. Diagnosing a patient with anxiety early allows patients to be treated for anxiety instead of ordering multiple unnecessary tests or counselling patients on why they do not require specific tests. Listen to this session as we discuss how to identify anxiety in patients and how to counsel patients who require frequent tests due to underlying anxiety of health concerns. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 15 credits. Panelists: Sharon Bal, Physician Lead, Delta Coronation FHO; Assistant Clinical Professor and Electives Chair, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University; Regional Clinical Primary Care Lead, Ontario Health (West Region) Mel Borins Mehry Kianfar Co-host: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on March 27, 2024. You can watch the recording here.

There is a large differential for chronic pain and it can be difficult to address. Some patients with chronic pain take high amounts of opioids, leading to discomfort with continuing the prescription. Chronic pain can lead to opioid dependency, overprescribing and can affect patients' mood and quality of life. Listen as our panel discusses the Power Over Pain portal and various resources for caring for patients with chronic pain. Speakers will also share their experience using the eConsult system, which aims to reduce wait times for referrals and tertiary consultations. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 15 credits. Panelists: Virginia McEwen Arun Radhakrishnan Bryan MacLeod Co-host: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on February 28, 2024. A recording can be viewed here.

It is often difficult to help patients wean off benzodiazepines (benzos), especially if the patient has been using this medication for a long time and alternative treatments do not work as well for them. Elderly patients who take benzos are at a higher risk for falls, and patients can develop tolerance to them, which can lead to addiction. In this session, the panel shares their experiences and provides recommendations for when you should and shouldn't wean patients off benzos and when they are appropriate to prescribe. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 15 credits. Panelists: Ali Damji Jonathan Bertram Co-host: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on January 17, 2024. Click here to watch the recording.   

The increased administrative burden on family doctors, along with a rise in complex patient cases, have led to extended work hours, leading to burnout within family medicine. In this session, we share invaluable strategies and time management hacks to combat burnout and enhance both professional satisfaction and personal well-being. The panel offers insights and tips on optimizing charting and paperwork review to increase efficiency in practice. Panelists: Chandi Chandrasena, MD CCFP FCFP, Family Physician, Chief Medical Officer of OntarioMD, Lecturer, Department of Family Medicine at UofOttawa Sarah Giles, MD CCFP(EM), FCFP, FRRMS, DMT&H, ER and Hospitalist Physician, Lake of the Woods District Hospital; Assistant Professor, NOSMU James Goertzen, MD, Family physician and Former Associate Dean, Continuing Education and Professional Development (CEPD) at NOSM U Co-host: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on December 13, 2023. A recording can be viewed here.

It can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of a non-migraine headache and symptoms can be vague. If left untreated, headaches can lead to poor mood, sleep and a reduced quality of life. Missed red flags can lead to significant harm to patients such as stroke and malignancy. How can family doctors address a patient's headache to help improve their quality of life and prevent overreliance on pain medication? Listen to this session as our panel shares their personal experiences in treating patients with non-migraine headaches. We also share resources and practical tips to help support you and your patients. Panelists: Sheri Wark, Sport Medicine & Family Physician, Mountdale Family Health Team; NOSM Assistant Professor, Thunder Bay, ON Virginia McEwen Co-host: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on November 22, 2023. A video recording can be viewed here.

There are few treatment options for patients with personality disorders and these patients can pose a challenge for doctors and clinic staff, leading to burnout. If a personality disorder is not addressed, patients may not receive the care they need and family doctors may not want to continue with the individual as a patient or may become burned out from treating them. Listen to our session as we share treatment options for managing patients with personality disorders (specifically borderline), share strategies on how to manage a patient's behaviour when it causes conflict with staff and discuss how to avoid burnout when caring for a patient with a personality disorder. Panelists: Jon Davine, MD, FCFPO, CCFP(C), Associate Clinical Professor, McMaster University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences James Goertzen, MD, Family physician and Associate Dean, Continuing Education and Professional Development (CEPD) at NOSM U Nicole Profous, a CAMH client diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, exemplifies resilience and determination in her pursuit of mental health and well-being. Co-host: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on October 25, 2023. You can watch a recording of the event here.

Legalized cannabis and the marketing of its products has led to patients experiencing an increased dependency on cannabis to manage pain and anxiety. Family doctors don't always know when cannabis is indicated and the messaging available may come from sources with a conflict of interest. What can family doctors do to support patients experiencing cannabis dependency? Listen to our session as our panel engage in a discussion and share personal experiences and practical tips and strategies to help. Panelists: Meldon Kahan, Medical Director, META:PHI; Staff physician, Substance Use Service, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario Suzanne Turner, Associate Professor, Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Family Physician, McMaster Family Health Team, Staff Addiction Medicine Physician, Inpatient Substance Use Service, St. Joseph's Health Care Hamilton and Hamilton Health Sciences, Head of Service, Primary Care Obstetrics, St. Joseph's Health Care Hamilton. Hamilton, ON Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on September 27, 2023. You can watch a recording here.

Insomnia can be caused by multiple factors and may require a longer appointment, but family doctors don't always have the time. If the issue is not addressed, overreliance on sleep aids can lead to patient dependency and poor sleep can lead to substance use, as well as decreased productivity and mood. Listen to this session as our panelists discuss experiences treating insomnia with non-pharmaceutical methods (ex. Cognitive behavioral therapy) and relaxation techniques. Panelists provide a treatment algorithm and share what other options one should try after melatonin and trazodone. Panelists: Chris Frank, Care of the Elderly focused-practice physician, Queen's University and Providence Care Hospital; Steering Committee Member, Provincial Geriatrics Leadership Ontario; Committee Member, Older Adult Advisory Committee of Mental Health Commission Marcia Kostenuik, Medical Psychotherapist focused on Physician Health, Physician Coach, Speaker, Parenting and Relationship Coach, Psychotherapy Teacher at the University of Toronto Family Medicine Teaching Unit, Barrie, ON; Peer guide, Practising Well Peer Connect Program, Ontario College of Family Physicians; Member of the Board of Directors, Medical Psychotherapy Association of Canada Purti Papneja, Family Physician and Assistant Professor, Sunnybrook Academic Family Health team, Department  of Family and Community Medicine; Sleep Consultant, Ellesmere Sleep Disorder Clinic, Toronto, ON Co-host: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This event originally took place on August 23, 2003. A video recording can be viewed here.

Women's pain issues, including menstrual and pregnancy related pain, can often go dismissed due to a lack of training in pelvic pain. This can lead to the undertreatment of pain symptoms in women. How can family physicians better recognize and offer treatments to ensure these issues are being addressed? Listen to this session as our panelists offer personal experience with managing female patients with pelvic pain including investigations and treatment options. Panelists: Marina Abdel Malak, Lecturer, University of Toronto; Assistant Clinical Professor, McMaster University; Assistant Director of Programs, The Foundation for Medical Practice Education; Physician Lead, Primary Care Continuing Medical Education, Trillium Health Partners; Family Physician, Mississauga Mathew Leonardi, Gynecologic Surgeon Sonologist, Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, McMaster University Medical Centre, Hamilton, ON Rachel Shour, Focused Practice in Mental Health and Medical Psychotherapy; Department of Family and Community Medicine cross appointment in Psychiatry, North York General Hospital; DFCM, Division of Mental Health and Addictions; Lecturer, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto Co-host: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on Wednesday, July 26, 2023. A live recording can be viewed here. 

Smoking can cause serious health issues and is the leading cause of death among substance use disorders. Listen to this session as your fellow family doctors share personal experiences with managing patients who smoke. The panel will discuss motivational interviewing, provide an overview of treatment options and share available referral pathways that can support a patient. The Practising Well Community of Practice has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Ontario Chapter for up to 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits. This Community of Practice includes a series of planned webinars. Each session is worth 1 Mainpro+Ⓡcredits, for up to a total of 12 credits. Panelists: Monica Gad, Family Physician; Nicotine Dependence Clinic Clinician, Centre of Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON Osnat Melamed, MD, MSc, MCFP, Addictions Physician, Nicotine Dependence Clinic, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Assistant Professor, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON. Peter Selby Co-host: Nikki Bozinoff, Division Head, Mental Health and Addictions, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto; Physician, Concurrent Outpatient Medical and Psychosocial Addiction Support Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Moderator: Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session originally took place on June 28, 2023. A video recording is available here.

Do you find yourself experiencing stressful interactions with patients, other physicians or allied health providers? These conversations in the workplace can leave us feeling isolated and burned out. Listen as we share personal experiences in navigating stressful interactions, provide insights into what we've learned and tips for managing these situations, including how to navigate maintaining or leaving provider-patient relationships. Panelists Dr. Joan Chan (Guelph, ON) Dr. Claudia Hubbes (Ottawa, ON) Dr. James Goertzen (Thunder Bay, ON) This session took place on May 24, 2023. A video recording can be watched here.

Family doctors are often the first contact patients may have with the health care system and a missed diagnosis could lead to comorbidities. Listen to our panel as they share tips to recognize and address a potential eating disorder with a patient. They will also share ideas on how to help patients feel comfortable talking about an eating disorder. Panelists: Dr. Marina Abdel Malak (Mississauga, ON) Dr. Deema Abdul Hadi (Mississauga, ON) Dr. Karen Trollope-Kumar (Hamilton, ON) This session took place on April 26, 2023. A video recording is also available. 

Although uncertainty is a common element of patient care, as doctors, we feel better when we think we have all the answers. Join your colleagues for a discussion about how to manage patients who have a complex diagnosis and share tips on time-management, resources for referrals and strategies to help manage our own feelings. Panelists: Dr. Merrilee Brown (Port Perry, ON) Dr. Lisa Del Giudice (Toronto, ON) Dr. Sarah Newbery (Marathon, ON) Download the resources: Session Slides (PDF) Video recording This session originally took place on Wednesday, March 22, 2023. 

Nearly one in ten Canadians is believed to have experienced post-traumatic stress disorder, but the condition is often missed by doctors. It can be difficult to treat other issues if underlying trauma is not addressed, leading to a frustrating experience for both patient and provider. Join your fellow family doctors for a discussion about how to recognize and manage patients with PTSD and learn about resources for referring patients with PTSD.  Panelists: Dr. Diana Ahmed (Burlington, ON) Dr. Luke Kyne (Toronto, ON) Dr. Harry Zeit (Toronto, ON) Resources Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder in Canada Download the resources of today's session  

Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 07:55 AM Family doctors routinely treat patients with disabilities, but the medical profession often stigmatizes physicians living with disabilities themselves. Connect with your fellow family doctors to learn tips and strategies to adapt your practice and create an environment where everyone can thrive. Learn practical tips for how to navigate taking time off and discover where physicians or patients with disabilities can go for support. Panelists: Dr. Jennifer Hulme (Toronto, ON) Dr. Samantha Lavitt (Ottawa, ON) Dr. Shailla Vaidya (Toronto, ON) Download the resources: Practising Well CoP - January 18 Resources Session Slides  

Increased patient expectations and an overwhelming workload are two factors that have contributed to the heightened burnout rate in family medicine.  Join your fellow physicians to discuss how self-compassion and setting boundaries can help you take better care of yourself, your peers and your patients. Panelists: Dr. Patricia Rockman (Toronto, ON) Dr. Sue Shepherd (Port Perry, ON) Dr. Shira Taylor (Toronto, ON) Download the resources: Practising Well Community of Practice - December 14 Resources (PDF) Session Slides (PDF)  

Do you want to learn more about the differences between nociceptive and neuropathic pain? Listen in as we breakdown the two and identify warning signs to look out for in a pain condition. We'll discuss treatment options with your fellow family doctors and learn how self-management, mindfulness and meditation can take a patient from a life of pain to one of possibility. Panelists: Dr. Amy Alexander (Toronto, ON) Dr. Gregory Hariton (Burlington, ON) Dr. Caroline Kargel (Barrie, ON) Download the resources: Practising Well CoP - November 23 Resources(PDF) Session Slides  (PDF) This session originally took place on Wednesday, November 23, 2022. Watch the video recording (Vimeo link)

Assessing a child with a potential mental health issue can be a complex process. Overlapping conditions and misinformation can complicate diagnosis and treatment. There are screening tools that can help. Join your fellow family doctors to discuss strategies and resources to support you in identifying children's mental health needs, services and educational materials. Panelists: Dr. Deema Abdul Hadi (Mississauga, ON) Dr. David Brault Dr. Sara Cohen-Gelfand (Toronto, ON) Download the resources: Practising Well CoP - October 26 Resources (PDF) Mental Health Resource Sheet (PDF) Session Slides (PDF) This session originally took place on Wednesday, October 26, 2022. Watch the video recording.

Family doctors are often the first medical professional that patients turn to when seeking help for a substance use disorder. But there is rarely enough time in a single appointment to provide in-depth counselling. Join in a discussion with your fellow physicians about how family doctors can use motivational interviewing to support patients during short clinical visits. Panelists: Dr. Melissa Holowaty (Peterborough) Dr. Kimberly Lazare (Toronto) Dr. Stephanie Zhou (Toronto) Download the resources: Practising Well CoP - September 28 Resources (PDF) Session Slides (PDF) This session originally took place on Wednesday, September 28, 2022. Watch the video recording.

Low back pain is one of the most common reasons that patients visit their doctor. Yet without effective intervention it can become a chronic condition. Join your fellow physicians to discuss approaches to treatment and share your own experiences helping patients with low back pain.  Panelists: Dr. Paul Hoogeveen (Barrie) Dr. Jennifer Young (Collingwood) Dr. Sheri Wark (Thunder Bay) Download the resources: Practising Well CoP - August 24 Resources Session Slides This session originally took place on Wednesday, August 24, 2022. Watch the video recording.

The ongoing opioid crisis has only gotten worse during the pandemic. Join your fellow family doctors to discuss strategies for managing opioid use by patients, unique issues facing practitioners, and hear about alternatives to regularly prescribed opioids. Panelists: Lisa Bromley (Ottawa) Kate Lazier (Toronto) Joel Voth (Toronto) Accompanying resources are available on the Community of Practice session page. This session originally took place on Wednesday, July 27, 2022.

We discuss the latest on COVID including case counts, variants and vaccines. We also re-review IPAC advice given changing context, and we provide an update on Monkeypox in Ontario, including potential new guidance on testing.  Panelists: Dr. Allison McGeer, Microbiologist, Infectious Disease Consultant, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON Dr. Darrell Tan, Infectious Diseases Physician, Clinician Scientist, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON Co-host: Dr. David Kaplan, Family Physician, North York Family Health Team and Vice President, Quality, Ontario Health, Toronto, ON  Moderator: Dr. Tara Kiran, Fidani Chair of Improvement and Innovation, University of Toronto and Family Physician, St. Michael's Academic Family Health Team, Toronto, ON This is a recording of the 46th session in our "Changing the way we work" series which took place on Friday, June 24, 2022. Accompanying resources are available on the Community of Practice session page.

Coping with undesired change and loss can be difficult. Join your colleagues to consider and discuss strategies for recognizing and responding to grief and loss, and to learn about support for yourself and your patients. Panelists: Dr. Robin Beardsley (Kanata) Dr. Ramona Joshi (Toronto) Dr. Chase McMurren (Toronto) Accompanying resources are available on the Community of Practice session page. This session originally took place on Wednesday, June 22, 2022.

Learn about different anxiety disorders and hear from your colleagues about approaches to caring for patients dealing with anxiety. Panelists: Dr. Jon Davine (Hamilton) Dr. Rachel Shour (Toronto) Dr. Karen Trollope-Kumar (Hamilton) Accompanying resources are available on the Community of Practice session page. This session originally took place on Wednesday, May 25, 2022.