Leslie Sorensen, CEO
As the new CEO of AFHTO joining in the fall of 2023, I have been truly inspired by the knowledge, compassion, and commitment of AFHTO’s Board of Directors, staff, and members, and am honoured to join such a resolute, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic team. AFHTO’s conference highlighted the remarkable initiatives and tremendous efforts of members in helping comprehensive, well-integrated interprofessional primary care teams evolve to better serve Ontarians.
Over the next few months, I will be reaching out and meeting with members to listen, learn and understand what is important to you, your teams, your communities, and your patients. In early 2024, AFHTO will be embarking on a strategic planning process that defines a bold vision to drive change and transformation. I look forward to working with AFHTO’s Board, staff, members, partners, and stakeholders to create a strategic plan placing AFHTO and team-based primary care at the forefront of the provincial health care vision.
Transforming and focusing AFHTO’s mission and vision will reenergize the work we do and help us contribute to common goals across the primary care sector. AFHTO will continue championing team-based primary care as the mechanism for timely, accessible, equitable, and high-quality care delivery. With your help, AFHTO can highlight the critical work you do and provide evidence in support of expanded team-based primary care.
I am deeply committed to continually improving team-based primary care through working with a dedicated staff and a committed Board of Directors and AFHTO’s members. I am committed to AFHTO continuing to be a leader, advocate, network, and resource for team-based primary care and to strengthening the role of AFHTO. Please feel free to reach out to me at any time.
Dr. Kevin Samson, President, and Board Chair
I’ve learned so much from working with AFHTO, and there’s one lesson that really stands out.
In 2011, after almost 25 years of working in private practice, I joined a family health team. Having worked independently for so long, I wondered about the transition. But not for long. I felt welcomed and supported by the team, and I quickly realized the advantages of working in a team environment, both for myself and my patients. I realized that each member of the team had an important role to play, and it wasn’t just about what work they did, but how they did it – with passion and compassion.
In 2013 I become involved with AFHTO, on the Quality Improvement Steering Committee at first, and then as a member of the Board. It’s remarkable how well the AFHTO staff and Board members have worked together through extremely challenging times; engaging with members, enabling effective governance and leadership, strengthening partnerships, and advancing research that supports our advocacy for equitable access to high quality team based primary care. With regard to our healthcare system, there is much to be done and we are well equipped for the challenge. Leonard Cohen, the Canadian poet and singer-songwriter, once said, “There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.” Let’s be the light!
So, what stood out the most for me? It’s the people. People are the true strength of AFHTO and our interprofessional primary care teams; dedicated to working together to improve the quality of care that each person receives. Thank you to all! I am looking forward to a productive and successful year.
Wishing you all a joyous holiday season.
Sincerely,
Leslie Sorensen Dr. Kevin Samson
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