Ontario children celebrate Doctors' Day by sharing what their MD means to them
TORONTO, May 1, 2017 /CNW/ - Every day, Ontario's 29,000 doctors put patients first. From operating rooms to patient's homes, and from busy clinics to emergency departments, Ontario's doctors make a positive difference in the lives of their patients by providing high-quality care when it's needed most.
Today and throughout the month of May, patients, health-care professionals, organizations and government leaders will recognize Doctors' Day by thanking doctors for their dedication to patient care.
To recognize the contributions of Ontario's physicians, the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) asked elementary students from across the province to share their thoughts on the idea of "what my MD means to me." Hundreds of children from across the province participated in this year's Doctors' Day campaign by completing a "What my MD means to me" activity sheet and adding a personalized message.
The responses to "What my MD means to me" included:
- "My MD is great because he helps me feel better."
- "My doctor helps me when I'm sick. She is like part of my family, she's a friend to me."
- "My MD is a scientist, he is very smart."
- "My doctor to me means a hero who is willing to help anyone in need. He would help me even if it meant he might get sick."
- "Doctors are helpful. Doctors help."
"Hearing from our youngest patients on Doctors' Day is very meaningful for us," said OMA spokesperson Dr. Rachel Forman. "Their creative messages of appreciation are a thoughtful way to celebrate and remind doctors why we do what we do."
Ontario's doctors have a long history of advocating for the health and well-being of their patients and the communities in which they practice. Every day, Ontario's doctors treat and provide care to more than 320,000 patients.
"I know I share the sentiments of Ontario's doctors when I say how gratifying it is to be recognized for the passion and energy that we put into our work every day," said Dr. Forman. "Doctor's Day also gives us the opportunity to say thank you our patients for the privilege of caring for them."
To celebrate Doctors' Day, health clinics, hospitals, and other community organizations around the province are invited to recognize the physicians who have made a difference in their communities. During the month of May, Ontarians are also encouraged to thank a doctor that has made a difference in their lives by posting on social media using the hashtag #LoveMyMD.
May 1st was recognized by the provincial government in 2011 as the official day of appreciation for Ontario's doctors. The date was chosen to mark the birthday of Canada's first female physician, Dr. Emily Stowe.
Fast facts about Ontario's doctors:
- Number of practising physicians in Ontario: approximately 29,000
- Number of specialists: 15,500
- Number of general practitioners: 13,500
- Number of specialty areas of medicine: 37 ranging from medical oncology to public health
- Number of first year students enrolled in medical school in Ontario: 1,000
- Number of years to complete medical education: eight to 12 years, plus ongoing, mandatory continuing professional development
- Number of patients seen each day: approximately 320,000
The Ontario Medical Association (OMA) represents more than 34,000 physicians and medical students across the province. Ontario's doctors work closely with patients to encourage healthy living practices and illness prevention. In addition to delivering front-line services to patients, Ontario's doctors play a significant role in helping shape health care policy, as well as implementing initiatives that strengthen and enhance Ontario's health care system.
SOURCE Ontario Medical Association
Nadia Daniell-Colarossi, Manager Media Relations, Office: 416-340-2970 or 1-800-268-7215 ext. 2970, Mobile: 416-804-4600, Email: [email protected]; Danielle Milley, Senior, Advisor Media Relations, Office: 416-599-2580 or 1-800-268-7215 ext. 3008, Mobile: 647-300-0081, Email: [email protected]
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