Two years of progress: More doctors, better care
Two years ago, nearly one million British Columbians were without a family doctor. The primary care system was in crisis, and doctors were leaving family medicine due to financial strain, administrative burdens and burnout.
That’s when the Longitudinal Family Physician (LFP) Payment Model was created. Launched on February 1, 2023, it was a bold, collaborative solution to stabilize family medicine and improve patient access to care. Two years later, the impact is undeniable.
✅ 1,001 new family doctors
✅ Nearly 250,000 patients connected to care
✅ More medical students choosing family medicine
The LFP Payment Model values the time and expertise of family doctors, ensuring they can focus on comprehensive, relationship-based care. It has already had hundreds of improvements. In 2024, it expanded to recognize the critical role of family doctors in hospitals and long-term care, strengthening the healthcare system as a whole.
A game-changer for patients and doctors
For patients, having a family doctor means timely, consistent care. It means fewer emergency room visits, better management of chronic conditions and a trusted relationship with a healthcare provider.
For doctors, the LFP model has been a lifeline. Many who were on the brink of closing their practices have been able to stay in family medicine. Others have returned, knowing they can provide the care their patients need without financial insecurity.
“Two years ago, I thought about hanging a sign on my clinic saying ‘closed for good.’ Now, my clinic is thriving, and I’ve recruited two new doctors.”
– Dr. Tahmeena Ali
The LFP Payment Model has set a new standard for primary care in Canada. It is already inspiring change in other provinces.
More to do
This is just the beginning. There is still more to do to reduce administrative burdens, improve care in rural areas and make sure every British Columbian has access to a family doctor. At BC Family Doctors, we are committed to strengthening primary care.
We are working on improvements that ensure both patients and doctors can thrive. The LFP Payment Model has shown what’s possible when we work together. Let’s keep the momentum going.