Prof. Mehmet Ungan, MD

Why Now?

Our world is changing rapidly—and with it, our profession.

We face unprecedented challenges, but also powerful opportunities.

Primary care is now—rightfully—recognized as the backbone of resilient health systems.

But recognition alone isn’t enough.

It’s time to act—with vision, courage, and unity.

Vision

My vision is to strengthen and elevate WONCA to be stronger, smarter, more connected, more responsive—and more equipped for the future.

A WONCA that transforms global knowledge into local action.

A WONCA where innovation and digital tools support—but never replace—our relationships with patients.

And where equity, education, and sustainability guide every decision.

At its core, my vision is simple:

To connect across borders, listen across generations, and lead with purpose.

• Let’s share real solutions—not just stories.
• Let’s embrace technology—but stay true to the human touch.
• And let’s commit to a future where family medicine is both clinically excellent and socially responsible.

This includes investing in emerging leaders, ensuring diverse representation, and empowering every region to thrive.

Continuity and Collective Leadership

Strong organizations move forward by respecting where they’ve come from.

At WONCA, continuity means honoring the legacy of those who led before us, while opening space for fresh ideas.

I have deep respect for our past presidents, whose work has built the foundation we now stand on.

I will work with them—side by side—to ensure our progress is sustained, inclusive, and shared.

Leadership is not just about change—it’s about stewardship.

“We go further when we go together”.

Commitment, Experience, and Vision

This vision is not theoretical.

It’s not just what I hope to do—it’s what I’ve already done.

As WONCA Europe President, I helped amplify our voice in global health policy, led collaborative research initiatives, and worked closely with WHO and international partners to strengthen primary care systems.

I’ve chaired committees, reformed educational structures, and built bridges across generations—with both impact and heart.

I don’t just support WONCA’s mission—I’ve lived it.

And I’m ready to build on it.

Priorities

If elected President-Elect, I will:

• Champion evidence-informed policy and deepen collaboration with WHO and global partners.
• Address “workforce shortages”, “migration”, and “training imbalances”.
• Foster intergenerational leadership—because the future is already here.
• Strengthen WONCA as a platform for meaningful tools and collaboration—not repetition.
• Work for tools that work—not reports that sit.

WONCA is more than a network. WONCA is a family. 

And within that movement, we find community, courage, and shared purpose.

Let’s shape the future of family medicine—together:

• With compassion.
• With courage.
• With purpose.

Thank you for your trust and support—and thank you for walking this path with me.