Primary Care Advisory and Liaison Group
The Primary Care Advisory and Liaison (PCAL) Group brings together Public Health representatives, family physicians and nurse practitioners. Members represent specific areas of Niagara and work to include all primary care practitioners in our diverse communities.
The group supports two-way communication between Public Health and Niagara's primary care sector. Throughout the year, Public Health presents on health topics to help members understand our programs and the role of primary care in these areas.
Group objectives
Increase program awareness
Objective 1
Ensure primary care is aware of the programs and resources available through Public Health to support practice.
Planning and development
Objective 2
Engage Niagara's primary care providers to support program design and delivery tailored to the primary care sector.
Two-way conversation
Objective 3
Improve two-way communications based on a comprehensive understanding of primary care and of Public Health's operations.
Focus areas
- Improving implementation of the Enhanced 18-Month Well Baby Visit
- Increasing STI testing and treatment
- Increasing referrals to tobacco cessation programs
Meet the members
Azim Kasmani
Public Health Chair
Medical Officer of Health
Niagara Region Public Health
Matthew Greenway
Primary Care Chair
Family Physician
Montebello Medical Centre
Representing St. Catharines and Thorold
David Dec
Family Physician
Portage Medical Group
Representing Welland and Pelham
Shalini Sharma
Family Physician
Fort Erie Group Family Practice
Representing Fort Erie and Port Colborne
Sylvia Kaptein
Family Physician
Falls Family Health Organization
Representing Niagara Falls