CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association journal = journal de l'Association medicale canadienne
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Canada faces a significant and growing burden of terminal illness. There are major unresolved economic, ethical and social issues related to care at the end of life. Despite the international reputation for Canadian efforts in palliative care, the medical profession in Canada has largely failed to recognize the importance of the field, as evidenced by the lack of commitment on the part of most medical faculties at Canadian universities to developing academic strength in palliative medicine, the lack of content in the undergraduate curriculum and of postgraduate programs in palliative medicine, and the lack of support for research into end-of-life care. The authors propose a conjoint initiative by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the College of Family Physicians of Canada to develop specialized training programs in palliative medicine as a critical step in addressing this crisis.
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Physicians in 3 atlantic provinces say the linking of provincial sales taxes with the GST exacerbates the inequity physicians face because it yet again adds to their overhead costs. Physicians in Nova Scotia have already won an annual rebate to compensate them for the heavier tax burden. Doctors in the Maritimes warn that heavier taxes make recruiting there even more difficult.
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The Ottawa Regional Women's Breast Health Centre is an example of a new wave of Canadian clinics that are trying to offer improved quality of care for women with breast abnormalities. The new centres are a response to patients' request for changes in the way care is provided.