“Family doctors are often the very first contact we have with the health system. They listen to our concerns, provide a diagnosis and give us the treatment we need. When we need additional help, they link us to the tests, procedures and specialists to address our health concerns.

“This year’s theme, Family Doctors, Always There to Care, captures the essence of the role of the family doctor. Throughout the pandemic, family doctors were on the front lines bravely helping their patients and providing assistance in other settings where help was needed most. They nimbly adjusted their practice to embrace virtual care and helped educate Albertans about how to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“On World Family Doctor Day, I thank all family doctors for their hard work, dedication and the sacrifices they’ve made to provide outstanding care to Albertans and for the tremendous contributions they continue to make to their patients, communities and the health-care system every single day.”