Strathmore proclaims World Family Doctor Day

By John Watson Local Journalism initiative Reporter

During the May 18 regular council meeting, the Town of Strathmore proclaimed to adopting World Family Doctor Day on May 19.

Chris Willms with town administration presented to council, saying it was administration’s recommendation that the town proceed with the proclamation.

“As you all know, family doctors are (an) essential part of our communities,” said Willms. “Now, this annual commemoration acknowledges the contribution of doctors. This year’s theme is ‘always there to care,’ which reflects the steadfast dependability of family doctors.”

World Family Doctor Day was first declared by an organization called the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA) in 2010, which, according to their description, has become a day to highlight the role and contribution of family doctors and primary care teams in healthcare systems.

Regarding the theme, which Willms had mentioned, “always,” “there” and “care,” are described as the “three pillars” of World Family Doctor Day for 2022.

These, thematically, are regarded as describing the role and involvement of family medicine in the lives of patients and the communities for which practitioners serve.

“Throughout Alberta, 80 per cent of care is done by family physicians and so this role in people’s lives can be fundamental throughout (their) entire lives and their families,” added Willms. “This is a great chance to recognize the work of family physicians, and so administration is recommending that we proclaim May 19 as World Family Doctor Day.”

The occasion is meant as an opportunity to thank family doctors and medical practitioners for their commitment to service and maintaining the health of communities across the globe.

A motion was made to adopt the proclamation in council, which was carried without opposition.