Canada's doctors set sights on innovation and shaping health issues

QUÉBEC CITY, Aug. 23, 2017 /CNW/ - The 150^th annual meeting of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) ended with physicians vowing to intensify their efforts to advocate on critical issues, including opioids and medical aid in dying.

"Technology is opening up new frontiers in medicine; advances that were unimaginable a few years ago are now within reach," said CMA President, Dr. Laurent Marcoux. "As our practices undergo this sweeping change, the CMA will continue to be a partner to patients and physicians—a driving force for collaboration and a positive source of inspiration."

The meeting in Québec City, which united over 600 participants from across Canada and the world, featured discussion on a wide range of health care issues, including physician health and burnout, opioid use in Canada and medical aid in dying.

The CMA continues to press the federal government to lead development of a national coordinating system that encompasses all aspects of end-of-life care, including advance planning, palliative care and assisted dying.

"A patchwork of provincial policies will only lead to further inequities," said Dr. Marcoux. "The CMA will continue to be an active, expert participant in the national discussion on the health issues that matter to Canadians."

The CMA contends that the health care system needs to be redesigned to meet the health care needs of our nation's growing senior population. Seniors care should be a top public policy priority for all governments in Canada and a pan-Canadian strategy is needed to address the more complex and chronic health care needs of seniors.

"The number of seniors expected to need help or care will double in the next 30 years, and Canada is not ready," warned Dr. Marcoux. "Maintaining the status quo is a prescription for disaster."

The Canadian Medical Association unites 85,000 physicians on national health and medical matters. Formed in Quebec City in 1867, the CMA's rich history of advocacy led to some of Canada's most important health policy changes. As we look to the future, the CMA will focus on advocating for a healthy population and a vibrant profession.

SOURCE Canadian Medical Association

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