🌍 Launch of the World Family Doctor Day 2025 Campaign

🌍 Launch of the World Family Doctor Day 2025 Campaign – CCFP Jamaica Chapter

The Caribbean College of Family Physicians (CCFP) Jamaica Chapter is proud to officially launch its World Family Doctor Day 2025 (WFDD2025) campaign!

The campaign begins today and will culminate on May 19, 2025, as we join the global family of WONCA (World Organization of Family Doctors) member organizations in commemorating this important day.

This year's WONCA theme, “Mental Resilience in a Changing World,” reflects the growing recognition of the psychological challenges facing healthcare workers, patients, and communities alike. As a member of WONCA, the CCFP Jamaica Chapter stands in solidarity with this global call to action by adopting our own national theme for 2025:
“The Impact of the Aging Population on Primary Health Care.”

Why the Focus on Aging?

The Jamaican population, like much of the world, is experiencing a demographic shift. With advances in medicine and public health, more Jamaicans are living longer — a welcome triumph, but one that also brings new health care challenges. The aging population demands a responsive, adaptable, and compassionate primary care system, with family doctors at its core.

Our 2025 WFDD Celebrations – Three Main Activities:

1️⃣ Virtual CME Event:

Theme: The Impact of the Aging Population on Primary Health Care
This interactive and educational session will feature presentations and panel discussions focused on the unique needs of older adults, with topics such as:

Malnutrition in the Aging Population
Sexual Health and Aging: Myths vs. Truths and Relationship Dynamics
Cardiovascular Aging: Navigating Heart Disease, Hypertension, and Frailty in Older Adults
Violence, Injury and Abuse Among Older People
The Knowledge of Physicians Regarding the Provision of Care for Persons Living with Physical Disabilities in Jamaica
Vaccination of the Elderly

A panel discussion will also explore:
“Public-Private Sector Partnership: The Relationship between the Ministry of Health & Wellness Jamaica and the Private Health System.”

We invite sponsors to support this initiative, and in return, will be featured in our Souvenir e-Magazine — a keepsake publication capturing the event’s highlights.

2️⃣ Commemorative Publication:

This special issue will shine a spotlight on the work of family physicians in Jamaica and the Caribbean, highlighting their vital role in shaping healthcare at the community level. It will also include educational features and advertisements from our generous sponsors.

3️⃣ Community Outreach Initiative:

We are proud to support Community-Based Rehabilitation Jamaica (CBRJ) through the renovation of their kitchen at their headquarters on Monk Street in Spanish Town, St. Catherine. CBRJ works tirelessly with youth living with disabilities, and this contribution aligns with our ongoing commitment to community partnership and support for vulnerable populations.

How Our Theme Aligns with WONCA’s Global Theme

While our local theme focuses on aging, it is deeply intertwined with the WONCA 2025 global theme of “Mental Resilience in a Changing World.”

Older adults often face:

Increased isolation
Loss of independence
Physical limitations
Ageism and abuse

These factors can lead to emotional distress, depression, and cognitive decline. By highlighting these realities and equipping primary care providers with tools and training, we aim to foster both physical and mental resilience in our aging population.

Mental Resilience for Physicians: Caring for Self to Better Care for Others

Physicians are not immune to the stresses of a changing healthcare landscape. Burnout, compassion fatigue, and the emotional toll of caregiving affect many family doctors. As the demands of care for older patients increase, physicians must prioritize their mental well-being.

Self-care is not a luxury — it's a necessity. This means:

Creating space for reflection and rest
Engaging in peer support and mentorship
Accessing mental health services when needed

A resilient doctor is not one who feels nothing — but one who learns to bend without breaking.

Mental Resilience for the Community

In an increasingly uncertain world — marked by economic instability, health crises, climate change, and shifting social dynamics — mental resilience is essential for everyone.

For non-medical individuals, mental resilience means:

Adapting to change and uncertainty
Seeking support during tough times
Prioritizing healthy relationships
Staying informed without becoming overwhelmed

Building resilience is a community effort. It starts with family, is supported by the healthcare system, and is strengthened by access to education, empathy, and hope.

Join Us!

As we move through the months leading up to May 19, 2025, we invite all physicians, sponsors, stakeholders, and members of the community to be part of this meaningful campaign. Let's work together to create a Jamaica where our aging population is cared for with dignity and compassion, and where both doctors and patients can thrive with mental strength in a changing world.

Stay tuned to our social media channels, newsletter, and website for updates!

CCFP Jamaica Chapter – Strengthening Primary Health Care, One Family Doctor at a Time.

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