New opportunities to participate at the National level

At the Doctors of BC Board meeting in February, delegates approved a new process by which Doctors of BC representatives would be elected to the CMA Board.  

These delegate positions had always been appointed by the Board, but in these days of being more transparent and open, that process was causing concern for many. I am extremely pleased that we now have a process that is open to all members who may have an interest in representing our provincial association at the national level.

A call for nominations has been sent to the membership for two positions on the CMA Board. This is your opportunity to bring forward to our national association the thoughts and opinions of BC doctors. It also means you’ll be a voting member of the Doctors of BC Board and have the opportunity to report back to us on CMA activities. I hope all those who have an interest will put their names forward. You can find information on how to apply here (you will need your password to access the page).

In addition, how we select members of the BC Caucus that attends the CMA’s Annual General Council meeting has also been changed.  Ten physicians will be selected by the Nominating Committee after a call for expressions of interest to the membership. 

The goal is to have two medical students, two residents, two physicians in the first five years of practice, and two physicians with expertise in the designated themes for General Council in that year (as is possible based on the applicant pool).  The composition of Caucus will more closely represent the demographic of our membership and allows for many different types of doctors to put forth their position at the national level.  The balance of Caucus will be comprised of Doctors of BC board members, and Chairs and members of Association committees. 

Doctors of BC is here to represent you, and the best way to accomplish that is with your participation. I look forward to working with many new colleagues who are now considering these opportunities. 

Dr Charles Webb
President, 2015-2016