Newsflash April 23, 2026

This edition features improved access to varicose vein management, new Cheers, leadership opportunities, and how to jump start your continuity plan. Read it here (link available once published).        

Improved access to varicose vein management

Referrals for varicose vein management are faster and simpler following adjustments by the Vancouver Island Vascular Surgery Group. Changes include a new, larger Fort Street clinic location, no requirement for pre-referral ultrasound, and expanded management of venous insufficiency. Learn more here or view their Pathways profile.        

Event: Building Practice Continuity & Emergency Readiness

Is your clinic ready to respond quickly to disruption, or even a disaster? Jump start your practice continuity plan by encouraging your MOA to attend this targeted session. Afterwards, you’ll just need a one-hour follow-up with Dr. Bekker and VDFP staff to finalize your plan. By streamlining the process, we’re aiming to make it easier […]

Webinar: Strengthening Regional Colorectal Cancer Care Through Primary Care in Island Health

This interactive UBC CPD session brings together cancer care specialists and primary care physicians and clinicians to strengthen colorectal cancer care through collaboration and shared learning in the Island Health region. Centered on the pivotal role of primary care, the session supports evidence-based practice, improved care coordination, and stronger connections. Certified for 2.0 Mainpro+ credits. […]

New Cheers are in!

A shout-out to Drs Mark Freitag, Gwyllyn Gooddard, Tam Opusunjo, Trishala, and Andrew Robinson, as well as medical students Jonathan Eby, John Fitterer, Sean Lider, and Elsie Wang who received Cheers! See the kudos and add your own Cheers here.      

Physician Health & Wellness Events & Resources

Available to you on an ongoing basis: Mindful Monday: Next virtual session on Monday, May 11, 8 – 9 pm Dips for Docs: Saturday, May 23, at 9am at Cadboro Gyro Park South Island Physicians Walking Group: Next walk Saturday, May 16 (Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail, meet at the Humpback Road parking lot) 1 – […]

Leadership opportunities with Island Health

Island Health is seeking family physicians for the roles of Stand-Alone Division Head, Hospitalist & Family Practice Inpatient Care, Community Medical Director Saanich, Gulf Islands and Western Communities, Division Head, Family Physicians – Obstetrics & Women’s Health, Division Head, Family Physicians – Anesthesia.      

Divisions Dispatch, April 22, 2026

The latest edition of the provincial Family Practice Services Committee’s newsletter includes……………… , and more that will not be duplicated in the Newsflash. Read it here      

Inspire, transform, apply: Five Days in May

Island Health is taking part in Five Days in May, B.C.’s annual health research showcase that includes webinars on priority populations. Topics include Indigenous-led research, healthy aging, the toxic drug crisis, and brain injury, connecting evidence to practice. Open to physicians and clinicians, researchers, and the public. Learn more and RSVP here.