The Commonwealth Fund Survey of Primary Care Physicians Reveals Challenges Experienced by Family Doctors and Emphasizes the Need for Interoperability of Health Information Technologies.

Electronic health information that is easily accessible and shareable among healthcare providers and their patients can provide substantial improvements in Canada's primary care system and population health outcomes. The Commonwealth Fund's (CMWF's) 2022 International Health Policy Survey of Primary Care Physicians (CIHI 2023) highlights the views and experiences of primary care doctors in 10 developed countries, including Canada. The survey covered various topics related to physician workload, the use of information technology and coordination of care. While the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to an increased physician workload that may have impacted the ability to efficiently coordinate care with other healthcare providers, Canadian family doctors did close the gap with other countries as 93% of family doctors are now using electronic medical records (EMRs) in their practices. The CMWF's 2022 survey revealed challenges faced by Canadian family doctors in their practices. However, international comparisons provide opportunities to learn from other countries and build on the implementation of EMRs as part of Canada's shared health priorities.

Overuse of Tests and Treatments: Has Canada Made Progress?

Overuse of healthcare services is a complex issue. Also known as low-value care, these are tests, treatments and procedures that are commonly ordered despite clear evidence that they do not help with patient care and may even cause harm. National clinician societies have developed over 450 Choosing Wisely Canada (CWC) recommendations to spur conversation about what is appropriate and necessary treatment. The latest report from the Canadian Institute for Health Information and CWC measured the trends and variation in the use over time of tests and treatments related to 12 CWC recommendations (CIHI 2022). Reductions in overuse were observed in eight of the 12 tests and treatments examined; findings for two of these measures - chronic benzodiazepine use and red blood cell transfusions - are highlighted. Despite some progress on reducing overuse, there remains considerable room for improvement in the appropriate and judicious use of tests and treatments in Canada.