For the second year in a row, FMPE’s Top 10 Practice-Changing Tips From Practice-Based Learning Program Modules session was a standout offering at the Family Medicine Forum (FMF), held November 5–8 in Winnipeg.
Presented by FMPE’s Dr. Peter Tzakas, Dr. Haider Saeed, and Dr. Dana McKay, the session showcased some of the most relevant and practice-changing insights shared by Canadian family physicians through FMPE’s small-group learning program. With more than 6,000 family physicians participating in the Practice-Based Learning Program each year, the tips represent real-world challenges and solutions grounded in day-to-day clinical practice.
What stood out most was the level of interaction, as many attendees lingered afterward to ask questions about the tips, the module development process, and how the programs support both residents and practicing physicians. As Dr. Peter Tzakas noted,
“People came up afterward with thoughtful questions—not just about the tips, but about how our modules work and how they support residents and practicing physicians. It’s clear the program is resonating.”
He added that colleagues from the University of Toronto told others at their social event that they had missed a great session. “It’s wonderful to see the awareness of FMPE continuing to grow,” he said, adding that with FMF returning to Toronto in 2026, an even larger audience is expected.
For Dr. Haider Saeed, the session held special personal meaning:
“After the talk, I ran into one of my mentors who had encouraged me years ago to apply to medicine,” he recalled. “When I told her I now oversee Module Development, she said, ‘Oh, that really is the best CME program in the country.’ It was a full-circle moment.”
He emphasizes how unique FMPE’s session is within the FMF program:
“Our presentation reflects the voices and experiences of hundreds of peers across Canada. There’s something powerful about sharing qualitative, practice-based insights—real stories that help physicians care for patients better.”
He’s already imagining new approaches for Toronto, including reframing the practice tips and structuring the presentation around appointments at the end of the clinic day. “I think we can distinguish ourselves even further next year. I’m already looking forward to Toronto.”
Dr. Dana McKay also reflected on the momentum and what the team can build on next.
“We’d like to explore not just the successful practice change strategies, but also the common challenges that our members describe in their PRTs,” she said. She noted the increasing number of practice-change statements that involve electronic medical records. “Many of these changes are EMR-enabled—adding reminders, creating templates, or entering screening tools,” she explained. “A spotlight on EMR-enabled practice change could be a valuable addition.”
As FMPE looks ahead to FMF 2026 in Toronto, the team is energized by the reception in Winnipeg and the opportunity to reach an even broader audience. As Dr. Tzakas summarized,
“This talk helps increase awareness of FMPE every year. We’re excited to keep building on that momentum.”
The FMF 2025 session demonstrated once again how practice-based learning—rooted in real cases, real experiences, and real challenges from across the country—continues to help family physicians deliver meaningful practice change in primary care.