During times of public health crisis, it is crucial for public health and primary care to work together. "The H1N1 experience confirmed the vital role that family physicians must have in any pandemic situation," says CFPC President, Dr. Cathy MacLean. "Because they are essential to the provision of front line care for Canadians it is very important that family doctors be part of the advance planning as well as the delivery of services related to a pandemic."

Lessons from the Frontlines also highlights the fact that, while the outcome was positive, there were challenges with mass vaccination programs. Among the issues that arose: many public health units were stretched as expectations exceeded resources; and the variation and lack of coordination in providing important clinical information and vaccination during this crisis eroded the public's confidence in the federal, provincial and territorial response. The report states that a harmonized, singular national clinical response during times of public health crisis will ensure future consistency.

"At the end of the day, our shared objective is protecting the health of Canadians and to do that we cannot work in isolation," said CMA president Dr. Anne Doig. "Public health, primary care and governments must trust in each other's professionalism and expertise and work together between and during health emergencies to protect Canadians from future health threats.

We have had two "wake-up calls" - SARS and H1N1. Let's not wait for a third to find that we are not yet prepared."

Source: COLLEGE OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS OF CANADA