Newsletter

Second-year UBC Kelowna Family Medicine residents are conducting a research study to better understand how family physicians in the Central Okanagan are using artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical practice. The survey aims to learn how AI tools are being used in family practice, including how they may support efficiency, improve care, and create new challenges or barriers for physicians. Your feedback will help researchers better understand current AI use in practice and identify...

Pathways isn’t just for physicians. Providing access to your clinic team can help distribute administrative tasks and improve efficiency across your practice. MOAs, RNs, LPNs, and other team members who support patient navigation or referrals can use Pathways to: Find programs and services Support referral coordination Send resources and secure forms to patients Getting started is simple. Learn about Pathways access options and sign up for your clinic team, or explore training videos and...

A community screening of SEEN the Film will take place on Tuesday, July 28 at the Okanagan Regional Library Kelowna Branch, presented by the Healthy Essentials Clinic. The documentary explores the science of attachment, childhood experiences, and the lasting impact they can have on parenting, relationships, and well-being. Event Details When: Tuesday, July 28, 2026 | 6:00 PM Where: Okanagan Regional Library, Kelowna Branch (1380 Ellis Street) Following the screening, members of the Healthy...

PHSA has announced that the Private Physician Network (PPN) will be decommissioned on September 4, 2026. Physicians and clinics currently using the PPN must transition to a new provider for internet access, security, and managed network services before this date. Why this matters Finding a new internet service provider may sound simple, but it's only the first step. Once a clinic leaves the PPN, the new network must be properly configured and secured to protect against privacy breaches and...

The Reducing Poverty through Early Intervention and Occupational Rehabilitation Initiative aims to support individuals with physical or mental health-related impairments in their return-to-work journey. Participants are connected with Certified Disability Management Professionals (CDMPs) who provide guidance and support throughout the rehabilitation and return-to-work process. Program supports include: Assistance for individuals without disability insurance Support for return-to-work...

Health Quality BC’s Quality Academy is a six-month professional development program designed to support healthcare professionals in building skills and confidence to lead quality improvement in practice. Now in its 29th cohort, the program has supported over 800 participants across BC in developing and implementing meaningful change in healthcare settings. Program highlights: Six-month program with in-person residency sessions and online learning Coaching and mentorship from experienced...

The Central Okanagan Division of Family Practice is seeking a family practice clinic willing to host a 10–14 day observership for an internationally trained family physician from India who is preparing to enter the PRA-BC pathway. Observership details: Duration: 10–14 days Timing: Planned for August 2026 Purpose: Exposure to Canadian family practice workflows, EMR use, documentation standards, patient communication, preventive care, and longitudinal care models Clinic commitment: Minimal time...

The Central Okanagan Division of Family Practice is hosting an upcoming information session for family physicians interested in learning more about the Collaborative Most Responsible Physician (C-MRP) Model in long-term care. The C-MRP model is a team-based approach in which 3–4 family physicians or nurse practitioners share weekly rounds at a single long-term care home. This approach supports consistent MRP presence, improved communication, and coordinated care for residents. Join Dr. Brian...

The BC Physician Wellness Hub on Pathways is a resource developed by the Family Practice Services Committee’s Practice Support Program and Doctors Technology Office to provide physicians with access to wellness and practice support materials. Resources include: Health authority and community programs and services Wellness resources (podcasts, websites, apps, handouts) Physician Health Program forms and tools Access the BC Physician Wellness Hub on Pathways here.

We are pleased to share highlights from the Q4 2025/26 Long-Term Care Initiative (LTCI) Biannual Physician Survey. The survey gathered feedback from Central Okanagan physicians on LTC engagement, Best Practice Expectations (BPEs), technology use, Emergency Department transfers, and overall experiences within the LTC Initiative. Key themes from this year’s survey include: Continued physician engagement in long-term care Positive experiences within LTC settings Support for initiatives that...