Discussions

Better blood pressure: One family doctor’s attempt to make hypertension follow-up simpler for patients (and for the clinic)
Here is a familiar primary care moment: a patient comes in for something else, their blood pressure is high, and suddenly everyone has homework.
A key point FPs need to watch for in patients using GLP-1s
A family physician’s perspective on diagnostic pitfalls and practical considerations.

‘They desire a better country’: An urgent call to rebuild Canada’s blood supply

Since June 1, our national blood inventory has fallen by nearly 20%. As a hematologist and immigrant who chose Canada, I know firsthand that giving blood to save a stranger is the truest measure of our nation.
Sometimes the learning that makes us uncomfortable teaches us the most

My recent first aid and CPR re-certification reminded me why maintaining these skills matters—and why we shouldn’t let anxiety stand in the way.
The years of magical thinking

Dr. Melissa Yuan-Innes reflects on the tragedy of patients who choose to put their faith in unproven ‘natural’ treatments over evidence-based medicine.
Are you prepared for COVID's (smaller) summer wave?

Do you seriously still not have a HEPA filter in your office?
Skip the doctor, pay for the scan, break the system

Alberta's plan to allow unreferred, private diagnostic testing is a costly mistake that will increase public wait times and expose patients to unnecessary harm.
Case report: Red-handed

Dr. Robert Dickson encounters a mysterious rash on the hands of a former longtime factory worker.
Poll: What will be the effect on Alberta public wait times of new patient self-refer for tests plan?

See what your colleagues say. Take our weekly doctor poll.
Poll: How is patient use of AI affecting clinical encounters?

See what your colleagues say. Take our weekly doctor poll.
FHO+: What should we really measure in family medicine?

The new model’s focus on hourly productivity risks prioritizing basic access over comprehensive patient care.
Berlin Pride attack

I have a nephew in Berlin. He is gay. He was at this Christopher Day Parade with his husband. I emailed him immediately expressing my condolences and to check on him.