Dear Members,
As part of a cross-ministry effort by the provincial government, Alberta Health has invited the Alberta Medical Association to complete a survey on behalf of members. It relates to “legislative changes to safeguard freedom of expression for regulated professionals.” There was a news release about the activity.
Government’s engagement is appropriate. We truly welcome invitations to provide input, but that engagement needs to be structured to provide value and meaning. Accordingly, I was not comfortable submitting a survey on this topic that purported to be “on behalf of the Alberta Medical Association membership.”
I have written back to say that I cannot speak for all members on this topic, although I personally submitted a survey as an individual. Each of you, though, has your own personal relationship with the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta and may have different perspectives. I believe this is where government would find the greatest value of consultation with the profession.
Government’s window ended yesterday, November 13, for this survey of organizations. I have requested that they extend the engagement window to allow time for individual members of the AMA to respond. You can read my letter.
I will let you know what I hear in response.
Sincerely,
Shelley Duggan, MD, FRCPC
President, Alberta Medical Association