Physicians may apply as a group or can join an existing group.
Groups make decisions which impact each individual physician, so physicians must be willing to collaborate with all members of a group.
Groups do not need to be co-located, though co-location over time is highly recommended. Physicians must collaborate with each other to provide better access to care for the group’s patients.
Physicians are expected to support each other through vacations, illnesses, or time spent in clinical care outside their practice to ensure patients have access to the care they need.
Groups must provide extended hours coverage outside regular business hours.
There is no minimum or maximum group size, but the group must be able to fulfill extended hour coverage.
Groups are required to participate in a variety of activities, such as practice planning and Advanced Access training, to improve their access to patients.
Groups must provide in-patient care according to arrangements already in place with the regional health authorities. There may be some flexibility on how that care is delivered, and it can be discussed with the FMNB team and the health authority.
Physicians are welcome to maintain existing commitments in emergency departments, nursing homes, patient homes, etc. Existing payment arrangements will not changed.
Physicians joining the FMNB model cannot work in walk-in clinics.