Dear Team Members,
As we approach a new month contending with this pandemic, I thought it would be a good time to touch base. The continued disruptions, frustrations and adjustments of how we provide our services has been a tremendous source of anxiety to ourselves, our families and those we look after. Yet, despite all this, primary care continues to step up and ensure our patients get the care they need.
Though we are forced to work differently now, we still ensure those that need help get it in the most appropriate way. We battle through, despite fears of a dwindling supply of PPE, and plan for how care can be provided under all contingencies. As we still confront this infection, we are left to wonder what the “new normal” will be like. We plan for how we will contend with future “waves” and ask questions about how long certain “elective” conditions can be deferred.
The unknowns are certainly a challenge but what I do know is that each and every one of you have stepped up to ensure that our patients are protected and supported and that they will continue to get the excellent care they deserve.
This only happens when dedicated and caring professionals understand the difference they make in the lives of those they commit to care for. You are all to be congratulated and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. It makes me proud to see how teams across this province have stood up to fear and uncertainty and continue to support the most vulnerable in our society.
Many of you who serve on the frontlines of this battle do so at great personal risk. Yet, you continue to show the bravery, compassion and commitment that has been documented numerous times in the media over the last several weeks. Be proud of what you continue to do.
I want to mention that it would be my expectation that your own contributions should be recognized by the province with the “pandemic pay” that has been promised to other frontline workers. This would be a much-appreciated gesture to acknowledge the risk and hard work you continue to undertake.
Primary care is certainly the foundation of our healthcare system. The encompassing support of a team is how we most effectively manage the trials of this time. We know our patients look to us first for knowledge and guidance. They trust us to look after their best interest. We have not and will not let them down.
We are learning some things as we progress through this pandemic. About the disease, about the system and what we can improve on and about ourselves. Rest assured; this will only make us stronger in the long run.
Thank you again and keep up the incredible work you do every day.
Dr. Tom Richard
President and Board Chair
Association of Family Health Teams of Ontario
P.S. To all Executive Directors and Administrative Leads, please feel free to forward this to anyone on your team who may not get our emails.
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