2024
August 30, 2024
CMA response to Capital Gains Inclusion Rate and Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption Consultation
In this submission to the Department of Finance, the CMA outlines the impact of recent capital gains tax changes on physicians and the health care system more broadly, and puts forward recommendations to either repeal the changes for medical professional corporations or introduce new, more favourable measures.August 19, 2024
CMA submission: Reducing physicians’ administrative burden in Quebec
In this submission presented to the Quebec Committee on Labour and the Economy, the CMA expresses its support for Bill 68 and outlines several recommendations for the committee to help reduce physicians’ administrative burden and improve health system effectiveness.August 15, 2024
CMA submission: Restricting marketing to kids for healthy eating
In this letter to the Prime Minister, the CMA calls for the immediate introduction of draft regulation outlined in in Canada Gazette Part 1, which would restrict the marketing of food high in sodium, sugars and saturated fats to kids.August 2, 2024
CMA 2025 pre-budget submission: Addressing critical issues in health care
In this submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance, the CMA proposes recommendations to improve health care access and delivery for all Canadians. Recommendations include enhancing accountability, improving Indigenous health and well-being, and addressing the challenges of administrative burdens and the health human resource crisis.May 30, 2024
CMA submission: Implications of 2024 federal tax changes for physicians
In this submission to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the CMA outlines its recommendations to mitigate the negative impacts changes to the capital gains inclusion rate will have on access to care.May 23, 2024
CMA submission: Supporting the establishment of an immigration regularization program
In this letter to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the CMA calls for the government to honor its commitment to establishing an immigration status regularization program, which would enable Canada to provide adequate health care coverage for our most vulnerable populations.May 21, 2024
CMA letter: Implications of 2024 federal tax changes for physicians
In this letter to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the CMA and nine provincial and territorial medical associations outline our recommendations to mitigate the negative impacts changes to the capital gains inclusion rate will have on access to care.April 9, 2024
CMA submission: An Act to amend the Criminal Code (sterilization procedures)
Following an appearance before the Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs, the CMA sent a letter reaffirming its endorsement of the objectives of the Bill and submitting some further recommendations for the committee’s consideration. This includes providing clarity on some key definitions within Bill S-250 and echoing calls for supports, training and resources for health care providers so they are equipped to have culturally and psychologically safe reproductive health discussions with Indigenous patients and other groups.March 21, 2024
CMA support for Bill S-250
In this appearance before the Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs, CMA President Dr. Kathleen Ross delivered remarks endorsing a proposed amendment to the Criminal Code which would criminalize sterilization procedures performed without free and informed consent (Bill S-250). She was joined by Dr. Paula Cashin, a CMA board member and Canada’s first Indigenous radiologist and nuclear medicine physician.February 28, 2024
CMA submission: Recommendations on the ethical deployment and use of AI in health care
In this submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Industry and Technology (INDU), the CMA outlines six recommendations for the responsible and trustworthy deployment of artificial intelligence in Canada, recognizing the immense potential for new technology to help address health care challenges such as administrative burden but also the potential to exacerbate flaws and biases that exist in our current systems.2023
Physician Health and Wellness
December 13, 2023
CMA submission: Supporting women physicians
Women physicians play an important role in providing health care in Canada—particularly in family medicine. However, they also disproportionately suffer from worsening health and wellness outcomes like burnout and depression as a result of systemic issues. Given the vital role women physicians play in delivering effective health care, the CMA outlines four recommendations to help women physicians flourish.December 12, 2023
CMA submission: Recommendations on the new Canada Disability Benefit regulations
Recognizing the important role health care professionals play in the successful implementation of programs like the Canada Disability Benefit, the CMA outlines six recommendations for enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of the program while upholding our high standard of health care delivery.August 4, 2023
CMA 2024 pre-budget submission: Improving health care delivery in Canada
In this submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance, the CMA proposes recommendations to address the continued challenges Canadians face around health care access and timeliness of care. Recommendations include scaling up interprofessional primary care, reducing physicians’ administrative burden and supporting climate resilient health infrastructure.May 25, 2023
CMA letter: Canada needs a comprehensive approach to supporting older adults
As Canadians continue to live longer, the CMA highlights its concerns with the efficacy of Bill C-295, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (neglect of vulnerable adults) in achieving its intended impacts and outlines recommendations for a more robust approach to supporting older adults in aging with dignity.
Climate Change and Health
March 6, 2023
CMA submission: Recommendations on health infrastructure funding
Recognizing the critical role health facilities play in meeting the needs of communities across the country and the disruptive and devastating impact climate change continues to have on Canadians’ health, the CMA outlines four recommendations for federal investment in climate-resilient and sustainable health infrastructure.2022
Access to care
Climate Change and Health
October 6, 2022
CMA 2023 pre-budget submission: Tackling Canada’s urgent health care crisis
In this submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance, the CMA proposes recommendations to address a collapsing health care system and lay the foundation for a robust system moving forward. Recommendations include enabling pan-Canadian licensure, health human resources planning and advancing reconciliation.
Climate Change and Health
June 23, 2022
CMA recommendations on Canada’s first national adaptation strategy to address climate change
Recognizing the devastating health impacts of climate change, in this submission to government the CMA outlines how the health sector and all levels of government can contribute to climate change adaption.
Pharmaceuticals
May 13, 2022
CMA submission: Recommendations on vaccine equity and intellectual property
In this submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development, the CMA highlights Canada’s obligation to contribute to global vaccination efforts, which not only support vaccine equity but help Canada’s domestic public health response by reducing the likelihood of the emergence of vaccine-resistant variants.
Access to care
May 9, 2022
Appearance before House of Commons committee to address the health human resources emergency
CMA President Dr. Katharine Smart appears before the Standing Committee on Health to highlight potential actions that would help mitigate Canada’s health human resources crisis, reduce surgical backlogs, expand access to primary care, and more.
Access to care
May 3, 2022
Appearance before House of Commons committee to discuss the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program
In his remarks before the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs, CMA President-Elect Dr. Alika Lafontaine explains how improving the administration of the NIHB program is a key part of addressing the health inequities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Canada.
Access to care
April 14, 2022
CMA submission: Recommendations to address the health human resources crisis
In this submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health, the CMA and Canadian Nurses Association — in partnership with the College of Family Physicians of Canada — outline eight policy pillars critical in alleviating the health human resources crisis.
Access to care
March 28, 2022
Appearance before House of Commons committee to discuss health workforce crisis
CMA President Dr. Katharine Smart appears before the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities to highlight the need for strategic federal investments to support rebuilding health care delivery in Canada.
Access to care
Physician Health and Wellness
February 16, 2022
Appearance before House of Commons committee to study Canada’s health workforce
CMA President Dr. Katharine Smart appears before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health to welcome a study on Canada’s health workforce. In her remarks, she explains physician burnout is at an all-time high and the health workforce is in the midst of a crisis.
Access to care
February 15, 2022
CMA 2022 pre-budget submission: Addressing Canada’s health care crisis
In this submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance, the CMA proposes recommendations to tackle Canada’s health care crisis and create a foundation for a stronger health care system in the future. Recommendations include investing in health workforce planning, increasing access to primary care and addressing surgical backlogs.
Physician Health and Wellness
February 9, 2022
Appearance before senate committee to support Pandemic Observance Day
CMA President Dr. Katharine Smart appears before the Senate Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology to support Bill S-209, An Act Respecting Pandemic Observance Day. In her remarks, she explains it offers a chance to reflect on what we’ve collectively been through and the lessons we’ve learned.
Access to care
February 2, 2022
CMA submission: Advancing pan-Canadian licensure
This document provides federal policy options to advance pan-Canadian licensure by reducing interprovincial and interterritorial barriers.2021
Physician Health and Wellness
December 15, 2021
CMA Submission to the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities’ study of Bill C-3, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Canada Labour Code
The CMA applauds the federal government for taking rapid action and introducing new legislation to protect health workers from threats, intimidation and violence, and urges Parliament to support its enactment.
Physician Health and Wellness
December 10, 2021
CMA Submission to the Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology’s study of Bill C-3, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Canada Labour Code
In this letter, the CMA strongly supports the introduction of new legislation to protect health workers from threats, intimidation and violence, and urges Parliament to support its enactment.
COVID-19
November 17, 2021
Canadian Medical Association input in advance of the World Health Assembly Special Session
For consideration by the Canadian delegation, this CMA letter highlights recommendations for addressing gaps in the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including improving equitable vaccine access and distribution.
COVID-19
Physician Health and Wellness
Access to care
November 9, 2021
Canada’s doctors and nurses urgently calling for federal measures to address Canada’s health workforce crisis
In this joint letter to the prime minister, the CMA and Canadian Nurses Association urge the federal government to follow through on its health commitments, including actions to improve access to primary, mental health and long-term care, eliminate health system waitlists and protect health workers from harassment.
Quebec
September 28, 2021
The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and the Fédération des médecins omnipraticiens du Québec (FMOQ) partner for medical leadership training
The Fédération des médecins omnipraticiens du Québec (FMOQ) and the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) announced a partnership to develop and deliver medical leadership training.
COVID-19
Access to care
Seniors Care
August 5, 2021
CMA 2022 Pre-Budget Submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance
This submission proposes recommendations to reimagine Canada’s health systems as part of its COVID-19 pandemic recovery, including increasing the Canada Health Transfer, enabling access to primary care, increasing public health capacity, establishing an older adults care benefit and reducing interprovincial mobility barriers for health professionals.
Virtual care
June 25, 2021
Digital health care and competition – A perspective from the Canadian Medical Association
Responding to the federal Competition Bureau’s market study on digital health care, the CMA weighs in on the challenges and opportunities in this space, including quality, interoperability, governance, privacy and security, pan-Canadian licensure and compensation.
COVID-19
Access to care
June 24, 2021
CMA Letter - Bill C-30 Implementation
Bill C-30, the 2021 Budget Implementation Act, included a key CMA recommendation to introduce additional investments to the Canada Health Transfer to support provinces and territories in rebuilding the country’s health care system after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Seniors Care
Access to care
June 23, 2021
CMA submission: The Future of Care for Canada’s Older Adults
In this submission to a parliamentary committee, the CMA outlines recommendations to improve care for older adults, including sustained funding for health care, national standards in long-term care, supports for aging in place and a Seniors Care Benefit.
COVID-19
Access to care
Physician Health and Wellness
May 26, 2021
National Approach to Licensure
This joint letter to provincial and territorial health ministers makes the case for a national approach to licensure, underscoring the state of crisis of the health care system and the need to address the mobility of heath care professionals across jurisdictions to improve access to care.
Access to care
May 20, 2021
Appearance before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance Bill C-30: The Budget Implementation Act, 2021
In her remarks, CMA President Dr. Ann Collins urges the committee to include $1.2 billion of funding over four years in Budget 2021 to expand the establishment of primary care teams and enhance equitable access to care for Canadians across the country.
COVID-19
Access to care
Physician Health and Wellness
April 23, 2021
Appearance before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health: Study on the Emergency Situation Facing Canadians in Light of the COVID-19 Pandemic
CMA President Dr. Ann Collins calls for continued collaboration between federal, provincial and territorial governments in responding to the pandemic, and for additional resources to bolster the weakened health care system, including to expand primary care.
Smoking and E-cigarettes
March 3, 2021
CMA response: Health Canada consultation on the concentration of nicotine in vaping products regulations
The CMA reiterates its support to establish a maximum nicotine concentration of 20 mg/mL for vaping products manufactured or imported for sale in Canada, and to prohibit the packaging and sale of vaping products if the nicotine concentration displayed on the package exceeds that value
Quebec
Climate Change and Health
Seniors Care
Virtual care
January 21, 2021
Learning from the pandemic – Transforming and improving Quebec’s health care system
This submission for the 2021–2022 Quebec government budget outlines CMA recommendations on physician wellness, access to virtual care, the care of older persons and Indigenous peoples, and the health impacts of climate change.2020
COVID-19
Access to care
Physician Health and Wellness
November 30, 2020
Committee Appearance: House of Commons Standing Committee on Health (HESA)
CMA President Dr. Ann Collins calls on government and health authorities to protect Canadians and care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic, including by enhancing access to mental health resources, addressing backlogs in medical services, expanding primary care teams and boosting public health capacity.
Medical Assistance in Dying
November 23, 2020
Committee Appearance – Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee: Bill C-7 – An Act to Amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying)
CMA Past President Dr. Sandy Buchman provides input on this legislation to committee, including around the importance of using non-stigmatizing language, introducing safeguards to protect patient rights, and expanding data collection on medical assistance in dying.
Medical Assistance in Dying
November 5, 2020
Committee Appearance – Justice and Human Rights: Bill C-7 – Amending the Criminal Code Regarding Medical Assistance in Dying
In her remarks, CMA President Dr. Ann Collins provides input on this legislation to committee, including around the importance of using non-stigmatizing language, introducing safeguards to protect patient rights, and expanding data collection on medical assistance in dying.
Quebec
Access to care
Seniors Care
Virtual care
September 29, 2020
CMA submission: Valuing caregivers and recognizing their contribution to Quebec’s health system
In this submission to the National Assembly review of Bill 56, on the role of caregivers in Quebec, the CMA makes several recommendations to support their critical work by expanding tax credits and training for caregivers and improving access to virtual care.
COVID-19
Seniors Care
Virtual care
Physician Health and Wellness
Access to care
August 27, 2020
Recommendations for Canada’s long-term recovery plan - open letter
This joint letter to the prime minister outlines a series of recommendations to address gaps exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, in areas such as virtual care, support for older adults, Canada’s National Anti-Racism Strategy, primary care, pharmacare and mental health resources for health care professionals.
Pharmaceuticals
COVID-19
August 13, 2020
Taking action on drug shortages during COVID-19 - open letter
This joint letter to the prime minister puts forward a strategy to address drug shortages, including stockpiling critical medications, identifying manufacturers to specialize in producing critical drugs, and ensuring greater transparency and communications among governments and the health sector.
Seniors Care
Virtual care
Access to care
August 7, 2020
CMA pre-budget submission
This submission proposes recommendations to expand public health capacity and primary care access; scaling up virtual care and addressing inequities in access to digital health services; ensuring better care is secured for seniors; and mitigating the risks and financial burdens experienced by physicians and front-line health care workers.
Tax Fairness
June 5, 2020
Submission in Response to the Consultation on the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy: Keeping Medical Clinic Employees on the Payroll
Submitted to Finance Canada, this submission provides a briefing on physician practices and the need to access the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, an overview of the technical and administrative factors impeding access, and proposed federal actions to help resolve these barriers.
Tax Fairness
COVID-19
June 2, 2020
Federal measures to recognize the significant contributions of Canada’s front-line health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic
The CMA and a coalition of health care associations recommend the federal government implement a series of measures for front-line health care workers, including an income tax deduction in recognition of their efforts, an emergency accommodation tax deduction to support physical distancing and additional child-care relief.
Seniors Care
June 1, 2020
Improving Long-term Care for People in Canada
CMA signs joint letter to the minister of health endorsing the Canadian Nurses Association’s recommendations to the federal government for improving long-term care for Canadians.
Tax Fairness
May 28, 2020
Responding to the COVID-19 pandemic
In this submission to the finance minister, the CMA recommends the federal government expand eligibility for existing COVID-19 economic relief programs and implements new measures to address the unique financial challenges of front-line health workers during the pandemic.
Physician Health and Wellness
COVID-19
March 23, 2020
Protecting and supporting Canada’s health care providers during COVID-19
Writing to the prime minister and Saskatchewan premier, the CMA and several other health associations urge governments to make personal protective equipment readily available, put emergency funding and support programs in place for care providers, and share adequate, timely, evidence-based information on the pandemic.
Access to care
March 16, 2020
CMA recommendations for emergency federal measures to care for and protect Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic
In this submission to the finance minister, the CMA recommends the federal government implement six priority measures to support the domestic response to the COVID-19 pandemic
Access to care
February 25, 2020
2020 pre-budget submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee
This submission proposes a one-time fund of $1.2 billion over four years to help establish models of primary care in each province and territory
Climate Change and Health
Quebec
February 5, 2020
CMA submission: Climate governance in Quebec
In this submission to the Quebec Committee on Transportation and the Environment on Bill 44, the CMA recommends a health representative be part of the minister’s advisory committee, and a portion of the Green Fund be dedicated to greening health systems
Smoking and E-cigarettes
January 20, 2020
CMA response: Health Canada consultation on proposed vaping products promotion regulations
The CMA recommends vaping ads be banned in all public spaces, publications and broadcast media, with no exceptions and for health warnings on packaging similar to tobacco. It also calls for lower limits on nicotine concentrations and banning flavours
Quebec
January 15, 2020
CMA submission: Senior care and prevention – For a healthier Quebec: Pre-budget submission for the 2020–2021 Quebec government budget
This submission to the National Assembly of Quebec proposes recommendations to support seniors and their caregivers, heavily…2019
Smoking and E-cigarettes
September 5, 2019
CMA response: Health Canada consultation on vaping products labelling and packaging regulations
The CMA supports tighter restrictions on nicotine levels in vaping products and health warnings on packaging similar to those used for tobacco products. It also recommends all vaping substances and ingredients be labelled
Cannabis
September 3, 2019
CMA response: Health Canada consultation on potential market for cannabis health products
Recommendation by CMA that all cannabis health products that make health claims, including those with CBD, be reviewed thoroughly for efficacy, safety and quality. CMA also recommends strict packaging requirements and childproof containers to ensure consumer safety
Access to care
Climate Change and Health
August 2, 2019
CMA submission: Acting on Today’s and Tomorrow’s Health Care Needs
The CMA’s pre-budget submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance provides recommendations to improve access to primary care, better prepare for and mitigate the health impacts of a changing climate, and more
Smoking and E-cigarettes
May 24, 2019
CMA response: Health Canada consultation on reducing youth access and appeal of vaping products
The CMA reiterates its calls for all vaping ads to be banned in public spaces, for regulations restricting the flavours and nicotine levels in vaping products, and for Health Canada to develop a youth-focused communication campaign about the health impacts of vaping
Smoking and E-cigarettes
March 22, 2019
CMA Response: Health Canada consultation on the impact of vaping products advertising on youth and non-users of tobacco products
The CMA calls for vaping to be banned in public spaces, to prevent marketing to youth, and for health warnings to be placed on all vaping products
Cannabis
February 20, 2019
CMA response: Health Canada consultation on edible cannabis, extracts and topicals
To ensure safety, the CMA supports restrictions on product potency and the use of additives, and the prohibition of edibles in appealing flavours and shapes. It also calls for plain, childproof packaging, with clear content, potency and health warnings2018
Smoking and E-cigarettes
December 14, 2018
CMA Response: Health Canada’s consultation on new health-related labelling for tobacco products
The CMA reiterates its long-standing support for tobacco products being sold in standardized packages, with health warning labelling, and supports similar labelling on individual cigarettes
Cannabis
Opioids
December 4, 2018
CMA response: Health Canada consultation on Canadian drugs and substances strategy
The CMA supports a public health approach to substance use issues, and a comprehensive national strategy to address the harms associated with psychoactive drugs
Pharmacare
October 2, 2018
CMA submission: Implementation of national pharmacare
In this submission to the Advisory Council on the Implementation of National Pharmacare, the CMA urges the federal government to explore universal coverage for 125 essential medicines
Smoking and E-cigarettes
September 6, 2018
CMA brief on plain packaging: Health Canada consultation
The CMA supports Health Canada’s proposal to enforce standardized packaging for tobacco products with specific recommendations for packaging appearance and dimensions
Opioids
August 14, 2018
CMA response: Consultation on Regulatory Amendments regarding Tramadol
To protect Canadians’ health and safety, the CMA advises tramadol be placed on Schedule 1 of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
Opioids
July 18, 2018
CMA response: Consultation on Restriction of Marketing and Advertising of Opioids
The CMA supports Health Canada’s efforts to restrict the ability of drug manufacturers to advertise opioids to health care practitioners
Chronic Disease Prevention
June 6, 2018
Canada's Food Guide
The CMA calls for a modern, practical Canada Food Guide based on sound nutritional evidence in a submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health
Chronic Disease Prevention
April 23, 2018
CMA letter to Health Canada
The CMA issues a letter to Health Canada calling for front-of-packaging labelling on food and beverages
Cannabis
April 18, 2018
Bill C-45: CMA submission to the Senate Standing Committee, Social Affairs, Science & Technology
To support deliberations of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health, the CMA submits a brief on Bill C-45, the Cannabis Act, promoting a broad legal-regulatory framework
Seniors Care
March 8, 2018
Meeting the Demographic Challenge: Investments in Seniors Care
The CMA’s pre-budget submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance proposes that the federal government fund a share of the health care costs associated with Canada’s aging population
Smoking and E-cigarettes
February 15, 2018
CMA recommendations to the House of Commons for Bill S-5
The CMA submits recommendations to the House of Commons regarding Bill S-5 to support population health, protect youth and restrict the promotion of vaping products
Medical Assistance in Dying
February 13, 2018
Federal monitoring of medical assistance in dying regulations
The CMA provides input to Health Canada on its proposed regulations for the federal monitoring of medical assistance in dying in Canada, supporting the intent and highlighting areas for consideration, including the need for clear definitions and reasons for ineligibility
Cannabis
January 19, 2018
Proposed Approach to the Regulation of Cannabis
The CMA makes a submission to Health Canada on the proposed cannabis regulations — focusing on prevention, harm reduction, and other measures consistent with a public health approach2017
Cannabis
December 17, 2017
Excise Duty Framework for Cannabis Products
The CMA weighs in on the federal government’s proposed excise duty framework for cannabis products, highlighting the importance of a public health approach to legalization and recommending tax revenue from cannabis be earmarked to fund prevention, education and treatment initiatives
Opioids
November 7, 2017
CMA submission on Non-Prescription Availability of Low-Dose Codeine Products
In the interest of promoting public health and patient safety, the CMA endorses the requirement that all products containing low-dose codeine be sold by prescription only
Seniors Care
October 26, 2017
Advancing Inclusion and Quality of Life for Seniors
The CMA recommends ways to improve seniors’ quality of life as part of a study by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities
Seniors Care
September 21, 2017
CMA submission: Social Equity and Increasing Productivity
The CMA’s 2018 pre-budget submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee of Finance includes recommendations to improve health care system productivity and effectiveness for Canada’s growing seniors population
Cannabis
August 18, 2017
Bill C-45: CMA submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health
The CMA’s submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health recommends the legalization age for cannabis be changed to 21 and that the government undertake a multifaceted public health strategy to minimize the health risks associated with cannabis consumption
Pharmacare
June 28, 2017
CMA response: Patented Medicines Regulations Consultations
The CMA calls for revisions to Patented Medicines Prices Review Board regulations to ensure: a) transparency and clarity in setting patented medicine prices; b) the lowest possible costs; and c) continued access to a wide variety of pharmaceutical products
Pharmaceuticals
June 28, 2017
CMA response: Patented Medicines Regulations Consultations
The CMA responds to Health Canada consultations on patented medicines regulations, calling for revisions to bring transparency and clarity to price setting of patented medicines
Chronic Disease Prevention
June 14, 2017
CMA support for Bill S-228
The CMA’s support for Bill S-228: An Act to amend the Food and Drugs Act (prohibiting food and beverage marketing directed at children)
Medical Assistance in Dying
May 15, 2017
Federal Monitoring and Reporting Regime for MAID
In a submission to Health Canada, the CMA recommends features of a federal monitoring and reporting regime for medical assistance in dying, including privacy protection and a clear definition of what constitutes a request
Smoking and E-cigarettes
April 7, 2017
CMA recommendations to the Senate Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology for Bill S-5
The CMA submits recommendations to the Senate Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology regarding Bill S-5 to support population health, protect youth and restrict the promotion of vaping products
Opioids
April 6, 2017
CMA submission on the study of Bill C-37: An Act to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
The CMA makes recommendations to the Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs about Bill C-37, An Act to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and to make related amendments to other Acts
Smoking and E-cigarettes
April 5, 2017
Consultation on the renewal of Federal Tobacco Control Strategy
Information and the CMA’s position on smoking cessation submitted as part of Health Canada’s consultation on the renewal of the Federal Tobacco Control Strategy
Social Determinants of Health
February 28, 2017
CMA recommendations for Effective Poverty Reduction Strategies
The CMA recommends poverty reduction strategies in support of a study by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities
Smoking and E-cigarettes
January 10, 2017
CMA response to Health Canada's Proposed Order Amending the Schedule to the Tobacco Act
The CMA registers its support for Health Canada’s Proposed Order Amending the Schedule to the Tobacco Act (Menthol) prohibiting menthol in cigarettes, blunt wraps and cigars2016
Opioids
October 18, 2016
CMA statement to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health
Dr. Jeff Blackmer, CMA Vice-president of Medical Professionalism, speaks before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health about Canada’s escalating public health crisis related to problematic opioid and fentanyl use
Cannabis
August 29, 2016
Legalization, Regulation and Restriction of Access to Marijuana
In a submission to the Government of Canada Task Force on Marijuana Legalization and Regulation, the CMA calls for a broad public health policy approach for cannabis legalization and regulation in Canada
Smoking and E-cigarettes
August 12, 2016
Health Canada’s Consultation on “Plain and Standardized Packaging”
The CMA recommends guidelines for regulating the appearance, shape and size of tobacco packaging and products in response to Health Canada’s consultation on the matter
Pharmaceuticals
June 1, 2016
National Pharmacare in Canada: Getting There from Here
The CMA submits background to support a federal study on the development of a national pharmacare program, underscoring the need for federal government leadership and financial support
Pharmacare
June 1, 2016
National Pharmacare in Canada: Getting There from Here
In a submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health, the CMA calls for federal leadership and financial contribution to support a national pharmacare program on par with Canada’s Medicare program
Access to care
May 12, 2016
CMA submission: Reducing barriers to physician mobility and for a more uniformed health care system in Canada
The CMA puts forward a series of recommendations for the federal government to help reduce barriers to mobility of physicians and enhance uniform access to care
Opioids
March 19, 2016
CMA response: Consultation on the Prescription Drug List: Naloxone
In response to Health Canada’s consultation on the prescription drug list, the CMA advocates for increased access to naloxone for emergency treatment of opioid overdose outside hospitals
Pharmaceuticals
January 20, 2016
Regulatory Framework for the Mandatory Reporting of Adverse Drug Reactions and Medical Device Incidents by Provincial and Territorial Healthcare Institutions
The CMA recommends improvements to Canada’s adverse drug reactions reporting system in response to a Health Canada consultation2015
Medical Assistance in Dying
October 19, 2015
CMA formal submission to the Federal External Panel on assisted dying
In its submission to the Federal External Panel on Options for a Legislative Response to Carter vs. Canada, the CMA puts forward its position on the forthcoming legislative and regulatory framework to govern assisted dying in Canada, calling for a national, pan-Canadian approach
Pharmaceuticals
June 8, 2015
CMA response: Bill C-17, Protecting Canadians from Unsafe Drugs Act (Vanessa's Law)
The CMA calls for enhancements and revised guidance in response to Health Canada’s public consultation on the Guide to New Authorities under Bill C-17 Protecting Canadians from Unsafe Drugs Act (Vanessa’s Law)
Chronic Disease Prevention
June 2, 2015
Obesity in Canada: Causes, Consequences and the Way Forward
In a submission to the Senate Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology, the CMA shares the physician perspective on the causes and consequences of obesity in Canada and recommends ways to help Canadians make healthy food choices
Opioids
May 14, 2015
CMA submission to the Senate Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs on Bill C-2: An Act to Amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
The CMA presents its concerns with Bill C-2 before the Senate Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs, including that the new legislation could make it harder to create new supervised consumption sites
Access to care
Quebec
March 25, 2015
Accessibility: the solution lies in cooperation
A joint brief from the CMA and the Québec Medical Association on improving access to health care in the province of Quebec2014
Virtual care
December 8, 2014
CMA submission to Advisory Panel on Healthcare Innovation
A CMA submission to the Advisory Panel on Healthcare Innovation highlights five innovations to support Canada’s growing seniors population, including supportive living models that use technology to help seniors stay in their homes
Smoking and E-cigarettes
November 27, 2014
CMA submission to the House of Commons Study on E-Cigarettes
Information submitted on the current regulatory status and health implications of e-cigarettes, along with recommendations to support the House of Commons Health Committee study on e-cigarettes
Smoking and E-cigarettes
November 10, 2014
CMA submission to Health Canada
The CMA supports Health Canada’s proposed order to amend the schedule to the Tobacco Act to prohibit the use of certain flavoring additives in cigars — and recommends the ban be extended to menthol in all tobacco products
Opioids
October 28, 2014
CMA submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security on Bill C-2: An Act to Amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
Concerns about the potential of Bill C-2 impede the creation of new supervised consumption sites feature in the CMA’s submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security
Opioids
August 26, 2014
CMA response on Tamper Resistance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
The CMA advocates for regulations requiring products containing certain controlled substances to be tamper-resistant as a condition for sale in Canada
Seniors Care
August 6, 2014
Improving Seniors Care in an Era of Surplus
The CMA’s 2014-2015 pre-budget consultation submission calls on the federal government to invest strategically in long-term health care sustainability due to Canada’s aging population
Medical Assistance in Dying
July 27, 2014
Factum of the Intervener, the Canadian Medical Association
The CMA submits an affidavit and factum on medical assistance in dying to the Supreme Court of Canada to support the Court’s judgment in Carter v. Canada, which challenged the provision in the Criminal Code prohibiting assisted suicide
Cannabis
July 11, 2014
Proposed amendments to the Marijuana for Medical Purposes Regulations
The CMA responds to Health Canada’s proposed regulatory amendments governing medicinal cannabis, raising concerns about the scarcity of evidence for using cannabis as medical therapy as well as other objections to the existing regulatory framework
Climate Change and Health
June 2, 2014
CMA submission: Bill C-422 An Act respecting a National Lyme Disease Strategy
In this submission, the CMA recognizes the importance of reporting and monitoring infectious diseases in Canada that emerge in relation to global climate change
Cannabis
May 27, 2014
The Health Risks and Harms Associated with the Use of Marijuana
In a submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health, the CMA outlines health risks and harms associated with cannabis use to support the committee’s study on the topic and advocates for a public health approach to psychoactive substance use
Smoking and E-cigarettes
May 15, 2014
Higher rate now: Why excise tax on tobacco is long overdue for an increase
The CMA calls for an increase in the excise tax on tobacco in a submission to the Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce, citing research that suggests price increases reduce the number of cigarettes smoked and smoking prevalence rates
Opioids
March 26, 2014
CMA submission on the Senate study on prescription pharmaceuticals
In support of the Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology study on prescription pharmaceuticals in Canada, the CMA recommends ways for the federal government to address the unintended consequences of prescription pharmaceuticals and support public health, quality care and patient safety
Opioids
March 17, 2014
CMA submission on the Review of Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
The CMA’s response to Health Canada’s consultation on the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and its regulations recommends new measures and mechanisms for improving public health and safety, including enhancements to controlled substance approval, labelling and safety monitoring2013
Opioids
November 27, 2013
The Need for a National Strategy to Address Abuse and Misuse of Prescription Drugs in Canada
The CMA supports the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health study on the government’s role in addressing prescription drug abuse in Canada with background on the issue and recommendations for tackling the issue, including national strategies for reducing misuse and promoting optimal prescribing
Social Determinants of Health
November 6, 2013
Healthier Generations for a Prosperous Economy: CMA 2013-2014 pre-budget consultation submission
In a pre-budget consultation submission to the Standing Committee on Finance, the CMA recommends federal investment in the social determinants of health, a seniors care strategy and other priorities
Social Determinants of Health
April 25, 2013
CMA submission: Motion 315 (Income Inequality)
The CMA recommends measures to combat income inequality in Canada as part of submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance
Cannabis
February 28, 2013
CMA response: Health Canada’s Medical Marijuana Regulatory Proposal
A CMA submission to Health Canada’s Office of Controlled Substances calls attention to the lack of evidence-based information about the drug’s use as medical therapy and recommends support for scientific research, knowledge translation and other activities to meet physicians’ information needs2012
Social Determinants of Health
November 1, 2012
A More Robust Economy through a Healthier Population: CMA 2012-2013 pre-budget submission
The CMA’s pre-budget submission recommends ways the federal government can help transform Canada’s health care system and improve the health of Canadians, including recognizing the implications of the social determinants of health on system demand
Social Determinants of Health
May 31, 2012
CMA submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance Study of Bill C-38
CMA President Dr. Jeffrey Turnbull presents the physician perspective on why policy-makers need to pay greater attention to the social determinants of health in an address to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance
Access to care
May 9, 2012
CMA submission: A Doctor for Every Canadian − Better Planning for Canada's Health Human Resources
The CMA underscores the need for a pan-Canadian approach to ensure adequate health human resources, in support of a sustainable health care system2011
Chronic Disease Prevention
October 17, 2011