Hybrid care improves access and workforce sustainability

Fixing the Front Door of Care – Primary Care Access, Workforce Pressure, and System Sustainability

Location: Convention Hall Level – Breakout Room 6

Time: 2:45 - 3:45 PM  

Speakers:

• Ashley Dinn | NLHS

• Dr. Jonathan Fitzsimon | University of Ottawa, Department of Family Medicine

• Joby McKenzie, PhD | Teladoc Health Canada (Moderator)

• Dr. Tracey Parnell | Teladoc Health Canada

This session will explore how increasing gaps in primary care access are driving system strain across Canada, contributing to emergency department congestion, fragmented care, and inequities. Bringing together health system leaders and clinical experts, the panel will examine how jurisdictions are rethinking the “front door” of care through team-based models, policy reform, and virtual and hybrid approaches while navigating workforce and fiscal constraints. The discussion will focus on key learnings, emerging practices, and strategic tradeoffs shaping the future of primary care and long-term system sustainability.

Stabilizing Canada’s Healthcare Workforce – What Health Systems Are Learning About Burnout, Retention, and Sustainable Coverage

Location: Convention Hall Level – Breakout Room 7

Time: 12:45 PM to 1:45 PM

Speakers:

• Megan Carey | NLHS

• Azi Boloorchi Drake | Teladoc Health Canada (Moderator)

• Dr. Kathie McNally | Santis Health

• Dr. Simerpreet Sandhanwalia, FRCPC (EM) | Teladoc Health Canada

This session will examine how sustained workforce pressures, particularly in rural and underserviced communities, are impacting care continuity and clinician sustainability across Canada. Bringing together national and frontline perspectives, the panel will explore what’s working to reduce burnout, retain clinicians, and maintain reliable coverage, including hybrid models that combine onsite teams with virtual support through purpose-built technology. The discussion will highlight practical, system-level learnings on how flexible care models can strengthen local teams and build long-term workforce stability.