[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Tony_Clement.jpg” caption=”Tony Clement, Cheryl Levitt”]Minister of Health and Long-Term Care Tony Clement made a stop at McMaster Wednesday to announce the establishment of a new model of physician group practice.

Called Family Health Group, the model will provide new opportunities for physicians to participate in primary care renewal and will assist in the recruitment and retention of physicians in the province.

In the program, which will be offered starting in July through the Ontario Family Health Network Agency, physicians will have the option of forming FHGs consisting of a minimum of three doctors. The program will enhance doctor-patient relationships by placing an emphasis on prevention, in a setting with extended hours, resulting in more flexible access to care.

Cheryl Levitt, chair of Family Medicine at McMaster, presents Minister Tony Clement with a stethoscope at yesterday's announcement. Photo credit: Chantall Van Raay