OTTAWA, Jan. 3, 2017 /CNW/ - As Canada begins its festivities for the nation's sesquicentennial anniversary, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) is kicking off its own celebrations. For 150 years, the CMA has provided leadership and guidance to Canada's physicians and has ensured the public has access to high-quality health care across the country.
150 years ago, three months after the birth of our country, 146 doctors gathered in Quebec City with the goal of creating a national medical body. Today, the CMA comprises over 85,000 members and continues to be the national voice for the highest standards for health and health care.
The CMA is proud to have made contributions to a wide range of public health issues over the course of its existence. This includes the creation of the CMA Code of Ethics, advocating for mandatory seatbelt legislation in the 1990's and developing policy to reduce tobacco use in Canada, among many other issues. More recently, the CMA has provided the critical physician and patient perspective on the issue of medical aid in dying.
"The 150th anniversary of the CMA represents an opportunity to not only celebrate the immense accomplishments of Canada's physicians but also to look forward to the work that urgently needs to be completed to enhance the health of Canadians," explains Dr. Granger Avery, the CMA's president.
The CMA will continue to work with its partners in 2017 on a number of issues, including the creation of a framework for legalizing marijuana and the establishment of a new Health Accord with a focus on seniors care.
Over the course of 2017, the CMA will be sharing interesting facts from its rich history across various social media channels and at cma.ca/150. The celebrations will continue throughout the year, with the 150th edition of the association's Annual Meeting and General Council in August bringing physicians back to where it all began in Quebec City.
For 150 years, only the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) has united the broad expertise of the medical community for the benefit and well-being of all Canadians. The CMA currently represents over 85,000 physicians, comprises 12 provincial and territorial medical associations and is affiliated with over 60 national and international medical organizations.
SOURCE Canadian Medical Association
To schedule an interview or for further information, please contact: CMA Media Relations: [email protected], 613-806-1865
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