Discussions

Perspective on CMA’s 2021 proposed pathway to equity and diversity
The 2021 proposed CMA governance changes to promote equity and diversity provide a pathway to quickly achieve a diverse national leadership team for Canadian physicians. Some members have expressed interest in eventually moving to an election process for board selection. How do we ensure an equitable opportunity for election of all candidates, with a process that is less biased?
Requests for caesarean birth brushed aside, despite guidelines to respect maternal choices
When first-time mother Melanie approached her obstetrician-gynecologist in Ontario to request a caesarean birth plan, she found his response unsettling.

And finally, daylight

It is 6:15 and the morning calm of the lake mirrors the distant pines. The stove-top percolator diffuses the essence of espresso, an early morning jolt necessary for the long drive back to the sweltering city. Vaccination Day: The Sequel, has finally arrived.
Did PHAC's rules get it right for what fully vaccinated people can do?

The Public Health Agency of Canada released colour-coded guidance on what people can safely do, once they’re fully vaccinated. The rules say the fully vaccinated can gather indoors with a small group for a dinner party or movie night. Tell us what you think in our news quiz.
Twitter sings a new healthcare tune

Something new has emerged from the depths of healthcare social media that could represent an evolutionary step in networking on Twitter. Twitter Spaces.
Faith in forms changes medicine

Clinic walls used to sag with special shelves and trays full of forms. Cupboard doors refused to close as forms refused to stay inside. Extra forms always slipped out onto counters and floors, when you tried to yank one out from the bottom of a pile.
Doctor as patient: Slice of brain, slice of life

I was parked in the hospital parking lot, waiting for an MRI of my brain, I do my last minute check for metal objects. No shrapnel, prosthetic valves, pacemakers, just my watch and wedding band. The latter slipped off reluctantly.
Making it simple: Patient Support Programs can help Canadians navigate the specialty drug maze

Accessibility, quality and convenience are the new cornerstones shaping the post-pandemic healthcare model. Nowhere is this more evident than in the area of specialty medicines.
Here we go again

Quebec FP Dr. Vincent Demers argues that now that the pandemic finally seems to be under control, some media and politicians have resumed their favorite topic which attracts clicks and votes: doctor bashing.
COVID-19 can be an opportunity to eliminate low-value healthcare

Canadians’ health-seeking behaviours have changed over the past year with steep drops in utilization of emergency and hospital care.