Dear Parent and patient,

With mixed emotions, I announce the closure of my pediatric practice at the ByWard Family Health Team Clinic, effective February 29, 2024. I am grateful for the trust and confidence you have placed in me over the years, and I understand that this news may cause some concern.

I want to assure you that I have not come to this decision lightly and have explored all options before making this difficult choice. Unfortunately, the other pediatricians at the ByWard FHT clinic will not be able to provide my former patients with prescription renewals or ongoing care. Therefore, I encourage you to secure a new physician before the closure date to ensure continuous care for your child.

If you have a family physician, your medical care and prescription renewals will revert to your physician as of February 29, 2024. Your family physician already has copies of your clinic visits with me and can refer you to another pediatrician in the community. For patients without a family physician, prescriptions will have to be renewed and a new referral to another pediatrician obtained at the local emergency department or walk-in clinic.

I understand that changing physicians may be stressful. Still, I encourage you to seek continuity of care by contacting Health Care Connect at 1-800-445-1822 for information on healthcare providers in your community. A list of pediatricians accepting consultations and new patients can be found on the Ottawa Community Pediatrician Network website: https://www.communitypediatrics.ca/ .

Please note that your child’s medical records will remain in the custody of ByWard FHT for a period of not less than ten years (after the child has reached the age of 18 years). To send a copy of your child’s medical records to another provider, ByWard FHT requires your written authorization. An administrative fee for this uninsured service will apply. A consent to release personal health information form can be found on the ByWard FHT website at https://bywardfht.ca/our-clinic/forms/ .

I want to express my sincere appreciation for entrusting me with the health and well-being of your child. It has been a privilege to serve you, and I wish you and your family the best of health.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ronald Tam, FRCPC