|
We are proud to announce the release of our 2025 DFM Annual Report, which provides an overview of our key accomplishments in 2025 and reflects the breadth of our reach and the commitment of our people in advancing the discipline of Family Medicine. Thank you for your dedication to our department. We should all be proud of what we have achieved together, and we hope you will take some time to review it. View the annual report here.
This is a reminder to save the date for our Departmental Annual Retreat taking place at the Fairmont Château Montebello from Friday, October 2, to Sunday, October 4, 2026. Weekly callouts for presentation and poster submissions have been sent through our departmental communications. The deadline is Friday, May 15, 2026. Consider how you can contribute to our special theme, "Anchored and Aligned: People, Systems and Purpose in Family Medicine," within your area of expertise. Submit your proposal(s) using the Presentation Submission Form and/or the Poster Submission Form. Keep an eye out for registration opening on Monday, June 1, 2026.
Registration is open for the Faculty Orientation taking place on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 850 Peter Morand. This event will provide an opportunity for new faculty to meet our new Faculty Development Director, Dr. Laura Visentin, Assistant Professor, as well as the Senior Leadership Team, and take part in the Essential Teaching Skills session. Access the following link for more information and to register. Questions? Please contact facdevdfm@uottawa.ca.
We encourage faculty who are interested in seeking to further their academic, educational or leadership skills to apply for the Family Medicine Scholarship Fund (FMSF). The deadline for applications this quarter is Friday, May 1, 2026. Refer to our FMSF page to view the type of funding support available to faculty members, and download the application form to apply.
We are actively recruiting for several leadership roles that will shape the future of our department, including the Chair of the Department of Family Medicine. This role provides strategic leadership across education, clinical care, and partnerships and supports a strong leadership team advancing our academic and clinical mission. Applications for the Chair position will be accepted until Sunday, April 19, 2026. Click here for more information.
We are also recruiting a Director of Family Medicine Obstetrics, a key leadership position overseeing obstetrics education for Family Medicine residents across multiple clinical sites, in close collaboration with postgraduate education leaders and hospital partners. These positions will remain open until filled. Visit our Career Opportunities page to learn more.
Join the Family Medicine Grand Rounds on Thursday, April 23, 2026. This 1‑hour Mainpro+‑certified online session explores how Ontario medical schools are supporting a socially accountable primary care workforce, with a focus on training pathways and rural, remote and underserved practice. View the flyer for more information.
| | |
Faculty and staff are encouraged to take a few minutes to complete the Governance Review Survey as part of an important assessment of the Department of Family Medicine’s structures, decision-making processes, and strategic alignment. Led by Dr. Nick Busing, former Chair and national leader in academic medicine, this review relies on broad input to accurately reflect the department’s strengths and identify opportunities for improvement. Click here to access the survey.
| | Retirement Tribute: Dr. Peter Kuling | | |
After a distinguished career defined by leadership, mentorship and a deep commitment to advancing Family Medicine, the Department of Family Medicine bids a heartfelt farewell to Dr. Peter Kuling, Assistant Professor. Since joining our department in 2000, Dr. Kuling has been a highly valued and influential member. As a founding physician of the Riverside Academic Family Health Team in 2005 and its first Medical Director, he helped shape a training environment that continues to reflect his values of excellence, collaboration and continuous improvement. His influence can be seen across many of the approaches and practices that guide our work today.
We had the pleasure of reflecting on the many ways Dr. Kuling has contributed to our community. A highly respected clinician, he has long been the “go-to” for thoughtful advice and second opinions, and has been known for his clinical acumen, calm presence and unwavering support of colleagues and learners. Grounded in a strong “patient first” philosophy, his approach to care has spanned the full scope of Family Medicine, including obstetrics, emergency medicine, hospitalist care and outpatient clinical practice. His leadership was instrumental in advancing Continuous Quality Improvement across our clinical and academic programs, and in embedding the Choosing Wisely approach within our department and beyond.
Dr. Kuling’s impact extends nationally and internationally. He has held key leadership roles, including Lead Physician and Unit Director at The Ottawa Hospital Academic Family Health Team, President of the Saskatchewan Medical Association, and Chair of the Canadian Medical Association Political Action Committee. Through his work with the CMA’s Physician Leadership Institute and the Ontario College of Family Physicians, he has mentored and developed physician leaders across the country.
His contributions to Family Medicine extend beyond Canada through teaching, visiting scholar roles, and international collaborations in Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, India and Australia, as well as through his work with the Ottawa-Shanghai Joint School of Medicine. A Canadian Certified Physician Executive, he further strengthened his leadership expertise through the Advanced Health Leadership Program at the University of Toronto.
In recognition of his outstanding career and lifelong dedication to advocacy, Dr. Kuling was awarded the Canadian Medical Association’s Sir Charles Tupper Award for Political Action in 2017, and further enhanced his leadership training through the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto.
Dr. Kuling will be remembered for his generosity, humility and steady leadership. On behalf of the Department of Family Medicine, we extend our sincere thanks for his years of service and his lasting contributions and wish him all the very best in this next chapter.
| | |
Leadership Update
Congratulations to Dr. Alison Eyre, Associate Professor, on her new role as Director, MD Family Medicine Focus (MD–FM), Undergraduate Medical Education. Dr. Eyre joined the Department of Family Medicine in 2004 as an Assistant Professor and has been a longstanding contributor to community‑engaged primary care and medical education. She is a practicing family physician at the Centretown Community Health Centre in Ottawa and has held a variety of teaching and leadership roles within the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Medicine. Through her clinical, educational, and system‑level experience, Dr. Eyre brings a strong strategic perspective to the leadership of the MD–FM program.
| |
Congratulations to Dr. Sylvie Caissie, Lecturer, on her new role as Assistant Director, MD Family Medicine Focus (MD–FM), Undergraduate Medical Education. Dr. Caissie joined the Department of Family Medicine in 2018 and is a practicing family physician in Orléans, where she provides comprehensive, community‑based care. She is actively involved in undergraduate teaching and learner mentorship and plays an important role in supporting the delivery and day‑to‑day operations of the MD–FM program, helping to strengthen the student experience across the undergraduate years.
The MD Family Medicine Focus plays a vital role in preparing future physicians for comprehensive, community‑based primary care through early exposure, longitudinal mentorship, and sustained clinical learning, supporting the development of skilled and committed future family physicians.
| |
Family Phyisician in Action: OCFP Spotlight on Dr. Jolanda Turley
In honour of Women’s Health Research Month, the Ontario College of Family Physicians has highlighted Dr. Jolanda Turley, Assistant Professor, whose nearly 30-year career reflects her commitment to women’s health. From prenatal care to midlife and menopause, Dr. Turley emphasizes long-term patient relationships and preventive care as a foundation for trust and informed decision-making. She also teaches residents, leads quality improvement initiatives, and advocates for system-level changes to improve access and equity. Click here to read the full highlight.
| | |
2026 Professorial Promotions Ceremony
Congratulations to three faculty members who were promoted during this recent promotion cycle for achieving excellence in their areas of expertise. The promotions ceremony was held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, during which Dr. Melissa Forgie, Interim Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, congratulated and presented the faculty with their promotion certificate. Congratulations to Dr. Doug Archibald and Dr. Hugues Loemba who were both promoted to Full Professor, and to Dr. Michelle Anawati, who was promoted to Associate Professor. View photos from the Promotions Ceremony here.
| | Dr. Melissa Forgie, Dr. Doug Archibald & Dr. Bill Hogg | | Dr. Melissa Forgie, Dr. Hugues Loemba & Dr. Bill Hogg | | Dr. Melissa Forgie, Dr. Michelle Anawati & Dr. Bill Hogg | | |
Teaching in Seconds: Harnessing AI for Microlearning in Family Medicine
The Department of Family Medicine is excited to feature an innovative project led by Dr. Kheira Jolin-Dahel, Assistant Professor, exploring the use of generative AI to create short, evidence-based educational content for medical learners. Dubbed “Teaching in Seconds,” this microlearning initiative leverages AI-assisted tools to rapidly produce multiple versions of the same concept—whether case-based, visual, or algorithmic—while ensuring faculty oversight for accuracy and alignment with Canadian guidelines.
As explained by Dr. Jolin-Dahel, “The goal is not just to make content creation more efficient, but to meet learners where they are, offering short, accessible formats that can be used alongside clinical work.” Currently, the initiative is being piloted within the Department of Family Medicine’s residency program, with ongoing evaluation of feasibility, learner engagement, and acceptability.
Beyond improving educational delivery, this work contributes to a broader research interest in how AI is reshaping both learning and clinical practice in primary care. Early examples of the modules developed can be explored here. Dr. Jolin-Dahel and her team are also gathering perspectives from learners and faculty and welcome participation from anyone interested in contributing to this exciting exploration of AI-driven education. For more information, contact Dr. Jolin-Dahel: kjolinda@uottawa.ca
| | |
Family Physician's Perspective in Canadian Family Physician
Family doctors across Canada play a vital role in shaping the national conversation on primary care through their contributions to Canadian Family Physician (CFP) – the official journal of the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Through editorials and commentaries, family physicians share insights, raise important questions, and reflect on the evolving practice of family medicine. We encourage readers to explore Canadian Family Physician for thoughtful perspectives that inform, challenge and advance our discipline.
| | |
Read the latest editorial, “Distributive justice and the importance of context” by Dr. David Ponka, Full Professor, Interim Assistant Dean, International and Global Health Office (IGHO), and Associate Editor of the CFP. In it, he uses the Titanic as a powerful metaphor to explore distributive justice in modern health care, reflecting on how context, values and finite resources shape ethical decisions, urging family physicians to consider not just how care is delivered, but who benefits—and at what cost.
| | |
Narrative CV Workshop
The Department of Family Medicine Research Community invites faculty to a one‑hour Narrative CV workshop exploring this increasingly used format in research funding, awards and promotion. Join us for a hands‑on virtual session and learn how to transition from a traditional CV to a narrative CV, including an AI‑supported demonstration, facilitated by Drs. Douglas Archibald, Full Professor, Kheira Jolin‑Dahel, Assistant Professor, Amy Hsu, Assistant Professor, Kamila Premji, Assistant Professor, and Zack van Allen, Research Associate. No registration is required.
Details: Friday, May 22, 2026 | 9:00–10:00 a.m. | Teams Meeting Link to Join
View the Workshop details for more information, or email prime@uottawa.ca.
| | Family Physician Opportunity - Student Health & Wellness Centre | | |
The University of Ottawa’s Student Health and Wellness Centre is seeking bilingual family physicians to provide walk‑in care to a diverse student population within a collaborative, interdisciplinary team. Located on the main campus, this role provides an opportunity for clinicians who are interested in working in a rewarding practice environment focused exclusively on university students. Contact Dr. Patrick Leclair pleclair@uottawa.ca for more information.
| | 2026 Faculty of Medicine Faculty Member Awards of Excellence | | |
Nominations for the 2026 Faculty Member Awards of Excellence has officially launched and will be accepted until mid-June. Numerous award categories honour faculty members whose exceptional contributions have brought distinction to both themselves and the University. Consider nominating a colleague today! For complete award information, visit the Faculty Member Awards of Excellence website. Need support to write a letter and to increase a nominee’s chances? Read the Faculty of Medicine’s tips for writing a strong nomination letter!
| |
| | We are delighted to share that Xi Chen, Lead Coordinator, welcomed a baby boy, Yian, on March 22, 2026. Congratulations to Xi and his family on this wonderful news. We wish them all the best as they embark on this exciting new chapter together! | | | | |
Journées Montfort
Journées Montfort is taking place from April 30 to May 1, 2026. This is an opportunity for exchange, reflection, and discussion for all healthcare professionals who wish to contribute to the continuous improvement of medical practices, health education and research in French. Visit the Journées Montfort webpage for more information and to register.
| | |
75th Annual Refresher Course for Family Physicians
The 75th Annual Refresher Course for Family Physicians will be held at the Ottawa Conference & Event Centre – and online – from Thursday, May 7 to Friday, May 8, 2026. Celebrate 75 years of advancing Family Medicine and staying current on topics such as Hypertension, Diabetes and Immunizations while earning 12.25 Mainpro+ credits. This is also an opportunity to connect with peers at our welcome reception with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and take a chance at winning exciting door prizes. Register here.
| | |
CiMed Medical Education Days
The CiMED Medical Education Days will take place from Thursday, May 28, to Friday, May 29, 2026, at the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre. This year’s program features a dynamic two-day format: Faculty Development Day on Thursday will provide clinician teachers, program directors, and education leaders with practical tools and strategies under the theme “Teaching in a Time of Change.” Meridith Marks Day on Friday will highlight educational scholarship through research presentations, posters and workshops. Register here.
| | |
Strategic Research Priorities Seminar Series
Join the Faculty of Medicine’s Strategic Research Priorities Seminar Series for a focused session on Cardiovascular Diseases Research – A Focus on Thrombosis. Drs. Benjamin Rotstein, Aurélien Delluc, and Karen Bouchard will share insights into emerging research, innovative approaches, and collaborative efforts shaping the future of thrombosis care. Taking place on Thursday, May 14, 2026 (3:00–5:30 p.m., RGN 3248), this interactive session is open to all, including trainees and students. Register here.
| | |
Trillium 2026: Primary Health Care Research Day
Trillium 2026: Primary Health Care Research Day will take place on October 23, 2026, at the Courtyard by Marriott, Downtown Toronto. Hosted by INSPIRE-PHC, the event will feature poster and oral presentations, the Martin Bass Lecture on artificial intelligence in compassionate primary care, and a panel discussion on AI in practice. Abstract submissions are open from Wednesday, April 1, to Friday, September 4, with registration beginning Monday, June 1. Click here for more information.
| | |
Practicing Well Community of Practice
The Practicing Well Community of Practice offers Mainpro+ certified programs on a range of topics of relevance for family physicians. Visit their webpage regularly to learn more about their programs and to join their monthly virtual sessions.
| | | | |
