Updated CMA Code of Ethics and Professionalism addresses discrimination in health care, advances reconciliation

OTTAWA, ON, Sept. 18, 2026 /CNW/ -- Following an extensive consultation process, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) has updated the Code of Ethics and Professionalism that guides doctors' medical practice in Canada. The updates strengthen standards for how doctors provide care and clarify how they are expected to address racism and discrimination in health care.

The CMA committed to updating the Code of Ethics and Professionalism as part of its Reconciliation Action Plan. This follows the CMA's apology for its role, and the role of the medical profession, in past and ongoing harms to Indigenous Peoples. These include the devastating impacts of Indian hospitals, forced medical experimentation, forced sterilization, child apprehensions and systemic racism and discrimination, neglect and abuse within the health care system. 

The Code sets the standard for ethical medical practice in much of Canada. The updated Code is now available online in six languages, including English, French, Inuktitut, Southern (Heritage) Michif, Northern Michif-Cree, and Anishinaabemowin.

"Racism and discrimination have no place in health care, yet we know that they persist, sometimes with tragic consequences," says Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi, CMA president. "We can and must do better, and this updated Code of Ethics and Professionalism is an important step in that process."

Many of the Code's principles -- respect, fairness and putting patients' health first -- have long guided medical practice. The new updates include clear expectations for culturally safe, trauma-informed and equitable care; respect for Indigenous Knowledge and healing; and expectations for how physicians must treat colleagues.  

"Widòkàge: this word means 'to help' in Anishinàbemowin," says Jenny Tenasco, Algonquin Elder from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg. "All health professionals have an obligation to help all people with professionalism, no racism or discrimination. Kindness and understanding must be there for everyone. I believe the changes to the Code of Ethics and Professionalism speak to this."

Updating the Code of Ethics and Professionalism is only one part of creating meaningful change in health care. The CMA is committed to working with physicians, health organizations and health system partners to ensure a fair, equitable and accessible health system for all.

About the CMA
The Canadian Medical Association leads a national movement with physicians who believe in a better future of health. Our ambition is a sustainable, accessible health system where patients are partners, a culture of medicine that elevates equity, diversity and wellbeing, and supportive communities where everyone has the chance to be healthy. We drive change through advocacy, giving and knowledge sharing – guided by values of collaboration and inclusion.

SOURCE Canadian Medical Association

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