AMA legislation tabled today

November 1, 2018

Dear Members:

You may recall that one of the important provisions of the 2018-20 AMA agreement with government was a commitment to entrench physician recognition and representation rights within legislation. I am pleased to let you know that this legislation was tabled today. It is called Bill 24 An Act to Recognize AMA Representation Rights, click here to view the news release that was issued.

Agreements with Alberta’s physicians have led the way to improved quality and access to care for patients. They have included advancement of electronic medical records; the introduction and evolution of Primary Care Networks; development of a provincial physician resource plan; and programs to promote the most appropriate care. Ensuring clarity and formalizing the roles of the AMA and physicians in this regard is important to Albertans.

I will keep you posted on the passage of the bill through the legislature and also keep you up-to-date on the latest work coming from a two-day meeting of the Board of Directors last week in Calgary.

I have been glad to receive emails and feedback on my recent communications. Thanks to those who have been in touch and I welcome everyone to do the same anytime you have thoughts to share.

You can reach me in the following two ways:

• Communicate with me privately and directly by email if you would like a reply: president@albertadoctors.org.
• Comment publicly on this President’s Letter.

Warm regards,

Alison M. Clarke, MD, CCFP, FCFP
President