CMA Urges Action Following Health Ministers’ Meeting in Calgary

Health ministers from across Canada convened in Calgary on October 16 and 17, 2023, to address persistent challenges within the country’s health care system. However, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) expressed disappointment, stating that the discussions did not yield the concrete solutions necessary for meaningful reform.

The meetings tackled various critical issues, including access to pharmaceuticals, licensing for internationally trained health professionals, and the expansion of mental health and addiction services. Ministers also examined the modernization of health data and the integration of digital tools to enhance health care delivery. Additionally, they addressed global public health threats, particularly the recent outbreaks of measles in Canada.

Dr. Margot Burnell, president of the CMA, shared her thoughts on the outcome during an interview with CTV News Channel. She emphasized the need for tangible action plans, stating, “We’ve had lots of discussions about many of these topics. We know the solutions, so we need to start developing concrete action plans.”

Among the CMA’s key priorities are increasing funding for primary care teams, enabling physicians to practice across provinces, and establishing a streamlined pathway for internationally trained doctors. The CMA highlights a pressing need for nearly 23,000 more family physicians in Canada, a staggering 49 percent increase over the current supply. The organization also notes a demand for additional health care professionals, including 14,000 licensed practical nurses, 2,700 nurse practitioners, 28,000 registered nurses, 500 registered psychiatric nurses, and 2,000 occupational therapists.

Dr. Burnell pointed out that reducing barriers for physicians is essential. She referenced successful models in the United States and Australia, where multi-jurisdictional licensure pathways have increased access to health care services by approximately 10 to 15 percent, particularly in rural and remote communities. Such a system would enable physicians to rotate through different regions, helping them decide where to establish their practices.

The CMA also advocates for the implementation of digital health systems that facilitate communication among physicians, ultimately reducing the burden of paperwork.

While the press release from Health Canada acknowledged the importance of vaccinations in saving lives and reducing health care costs, it indicated that discussions on immunization would take place in future meetings. Dr. Burnell expressed her disappointment regarding this delay, emphasizing the urgency of addressing vaccination, particularly in light of the recent measles outbreaks that have resulted in lives lost. “We know that vaccinations save lives, so that’s very important,” she said.

The CMA’s call for action underscores the pressing need for reform in Canada’s health care system, as stakeholders seek to address the gaps in service delivery and ensure that all Canadians have access to quality health care.