Canadian Medical Association
1410 Blair Towers Pl K1J 9B9 Ottawa, ON, Canada

For many, this time of year is spent with family and loved ones a chance to share meals and stories about the winter that was. Things are different this year, and that isn't easy with a third wave looming. Whatever you celebrate, thank you for staying safe so that we can all be together again soon.

We know that COVID-19 has exposed major cracks in #SeniorsCare, but as the first baby boomers reach their 75th birthday this year, demand and cost for elder care are set to double by 2031. Now is the time to re-set how we care for and support our seniors.

The COVID-19 vaccines are being rolled out in phases depending on where you live. Dr. Katharine Smart, CMA president-elect, explains how to find out when it will be your turn

Many of us are feeling the additional stress caused by the pandemic. This is especially true for those working in the #healthcare system. Here's what physicians are telling us. https://bit.ly/3d18z9b

Dr. Collins may be CMA president, but she is a mother and grandmother first. Earlier this week, she received her COVID-19 shot and says she couldn’t help but get emotional on her way to the hospital. It’s a step towards bringing our community back togetherI’m feeling grateful and optimistic!

Artwork by Dawn Mockler

This time of year can be challenging under the best circumstances with fewer hours of daylight, the highs of the holiday season gone and winter setting in. If you need help, reach out to someone and speak up if you see someone who is struggling. #MentalHealthMatters

Since COVID-19, use of #VirtualCare has increased, and satisfaction levels remain solid, with all virtual methods producing higher satisfaction than an ER visit. See the data, facts and figures from our national poll. https://bit.ly/3svFV76

NEW PODCAST | Hosted by psychiatrist and wellness expert, Dr. Caroline Gérin-Lajoie, Sound Mind features conversations with physicians, learners, and leaders about what being a healthy physician means, the barriers that still exist, and the people, programs and projects that are helping medical professionals stay well. The first episode, on #COVID19 and its impact on physician wellness, features conversations with Dr. Sabrina Akhtar on the stress and burnout she’s experienced since the pandemic was declared, and Dr. Joy Albuquerque, medical director of the Ontario Medical Association’s Physician Health Program, about how she sees the pandemic affecting physicians.

"Since the beginning of COVID-19, this worrying phenomenon has escalated. What began as online harassment has evolved into threats and in-person intimidation. We have seen protests at the private residences of #Saskatchewan’s chief medical officer of health and #Quebec’s National Public Health Officer. We must speak out against such #intimidation, whether online or in-person, and urge those responsible for overseeing social media platforms and law enforcement bodies to put an... end to this highly alarming conduct. Peaceful protests are an important feature of our democracy, but these recent demonstrations have crossed a crucial line between free speech and willful intimidation. Public health officials and #HealthCareWorkers in Canada have been working tirelessly under stressful and very challenging conditions since the beginning of the pandemic to keep Canadians healthy and safe. They deserve nothing short of our full appreciation and respect. These disquieting acts of aggression must not be tolerated." Dr. Ann Collins CMA President

#COVID19 has killed 18,266 people in since the start of the pandemic, one year ago. The vaccine, however, has given us hope that our country could be vastly different six months from now. If we remain vigilant and if we plan more effectively, Canada may have something to celebrate on July 1 this year. Together, let's make sure that this is the year we defeat COVID-19.

It’s already been a challenging 2021 under the best circumstances. We hear you. Along with the usual post-holiday blues and with fewer hours of daylight, all while navigating COVID-19, your mental health may be impacted. What are your strategies for helping manage fatigue, stress, and uncertainty? #BlueMonday

Updated COVID19 resource--> A new edition of COVIDquestions.ca is now available. https://www.covidquestions.ca/

Don't put your health on hold. Online appointments with your physician can be easy, quick and productive. Be prepared and know how to prepare for your next virtual care visit. See our patient guide: https://bit.ly/3fbbcVf #ThinkDigitalHealth

November 18 Cozy up to your favourite spot and tune in Dr. Jillian Horton's Arts, Medicine and #Life series featuring world-renowned doctors speaking about their expertise on far-ranging topics in health and wellness. https://nac-cna.ca//popula/packages/arts-medicine-and-life

From the battlesfield of WWI, physician John McCrae wrote In Flanders Fields. On this 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, we bow our heads to honour all those who made the Ultimate sacrifice protecting our freedom. #LestWeForget

NEW REPORT | COVID-19 has impacted the Canadian health care system like never before. For 6 hospital procedures, clearing the backlog will take at least $1.3B and this is only part of the story. Analysis + recommendation

Did you know? 1,451 physicians served in WWI. Margaret Parks, Irma LeVasseur, Edna Mary Guest and Margaret Ellen Douglass are some of the female physicians who found a way to contribute to the war efforts.

This Hallowe'en, there is no one-size-fits-all approach for COVID-safe trick or treating. Canada's nurses and doctors have these tips for families to decide what's best for them: https://bit.ly/37xyxjH

CMA President, Dr. Ann Collins, tells CTV News the impact the first wave of #COVID19 had on our health care system. In collaboration with Deloitte, we explored the backlog of six key surgeries caused by COVID-19 and what it will take to restore to pre-pandemic wait times. https://bit.ly/3e4yi0x

Get your flu shot. You can locate a nearby health provider using this handy tool: https://www.myflushot.ca/

A word of thanks for physicians & health workers sacrificing family time this #Thanksgiving weekend.

To our dedicated health care workers, THANKS: This weekend, like any other, our health care teams are putting themselves in the path of #COVID19. physicians, nurses, technicians, pharmacists, paramedics and everyone who supports patient care has risen to this challenge, day after day. Thank you for the sacrifices you make, every day and especially during this pandemic.... Thank you for keeping your promise of care despite the risk. Your commitment deserves our deepest gratitude and admiration.

#StayHome Slow the spread of COVID-19

Today is #NationalSeniorsDay. Our population is aging, and our health care system is falling behind. The pandemic has shown us that we need a better #CDNhealth plan to improve access to health services for Canada’s seniors. Join us to advocate for better health and health care. #SeniorsCare

In a recent survey: 95% of respondents said the health and wellness of physicians impacts the health of all Canadians. That's why CMA, Scotiabank, and MD Financial Management are proud to announce the creation of the Physician Wellness+ Initiative https://bit.ly/3l4lZ6R

Today, let’s remember that #EveryChildMatters and engage in meaningful conversations about reconciliation. Let’s focus on listening and learning so we can break the cycle of trauma and impacts of the Residential School era. #OrangeShirtDay

Despite improvements, over half of #physicians continue to have issues accessing personal protective equipment. Survey results https://bit.ly/33encCk

Ahead of today's throne speech and subsequent budget, we'll be looking for deeper commitments from the federal government to address #healthcare shortcomings, and not just overcoming COVID-19.

Heartening to see members of the medical community come together to support one anotherespecially against systemic discrimination. We continue to condemn racism in all its forms both in medicine and in our society.

Joule, A CMA company is accelerating physician-led innovation by boosting their innovation grant program to $500,000. See your #CDNhealth initiative propelled. All you have to do is apply before SEPTEMBER 13.

Congratulations and thank you to these physician innovators, entrepreneurs and start-ups that are pushing for unique solutions to the #CDNhealth care problems posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.