Canadian Medical Association

WINNIPEG – August 21, 2018 – More than 750 physicians, health stakeholders and patients came together at the inaugural CMA Health Summit to strategize on the potential of innovation and new technologies to improve health care. Whether through the integration of augmented intelligence in clinical care or through increased patient empowerment through access to data and EMRs, the underlying message was clear: now is the time for change.

The outcome of these discussions will form the basis of a policy paper on innovation in health care to be released in early 2019.

These conversations build on the CMA's recent work on the impact of technological changes on health care. Last week, the CMA released the findings of an Ipsos survey that narrowed in on Canadians' perception and acceptance of technology in health care. The report, Shaping the Future of Health and Medicine, found that 3 out of 4 Canadians (75%) believe that new technologies could solve existing issues in our health care system.

"A national voice is needed to prepare the medical profession for the massive changes coming to health care, and the CMA will be at the centre of this discussion", says Dr. Laurent Marcoux, CMA president.

The CMA and its subsidiary Joule intend to play a significant role supporting Canadian physicians in adopting and integrating new technologies and innovative solutions. Foundational to these changes is a vibrant profession and addressing issues affecting physician wellness. To drive these conversations, the CMA will be hosting the upcoming International Conference on Physician Health in Toronto this October and will lead a series of member forums in early 2019.

As well, the CMA is launching a community engagement platform that will be a virtual space where physicians and other stakeholders, including patients, can come together to address health issues they're passionate about. The platform will allow groups of people with a shared passion to come together to explore ideas and experiences, solve problems, and take action. To support this initiative, the CMA recently announced five grants supporting communities of interest on Indigenous health, creating an inclusive and equitable medical community, medical aid in dying, health of marginalized populations and substance abuse.

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