Over the course of the last month the CAR has been busy advocating on your behalf. In early July we met with the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development’s senior staff to discuss the value of radiology, innovation in medical imaging and opportunities for Canada to be a leader in the integration of artificial intelligence in radiology. There is a role for the government to play in providing leadership for AI implementation within Canada specifically from a policy and ethical framework. An investment in innovation can increase Canada’s global footprint as a technology leader and foster economic development.
We also met with senior staff from the Minister of Indigenous Services and Northern Affairs to discuss innovation in radiology and ensuring that Canadians have access to the most current medical imaging equipment especially in First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities. This access would have a tremendous impact in improving patient outcomes especially in the eradication of Tuberculosis in indigenous populations.
Both meetings yielded valuable information and helped to raise the profile for radiologist as well as identifying issues related to medical imaging and how these factors are impacting healthcare in Canada.
Over the summer the CAR is scheduling meetings for our Board of Directors to meet with their local MPs. Thus far three meetings have been set-up across the country with MP Shipley, MP Waugh and MP Jeneroux.
Annual Day on the Hill
In addition, November 5 & 6, 2018 the CAR will be hosting our Annual Day on the Hill. This will provide another opportunity to educate the government on the value of radiologists and to build support for advancement in radiology in Canada. Details regarding this event will follow in future publications.
Resources – CAR Advocacy
The CAR is encouraging our members to reach out to their MP to speak about the value of radiology and to discuss some of the issues affecting medical imaging in Canada. A link has been provided below, which will help to connect you with your MP.
https://lop.parl.ca/sites/ParlInfo/default/en_CA
We also have created a stakeholder toolkit to help you in your discussions. Should you need guidance or additional assistance please do not hesitate to reach out to Natalie St-Pierre, Director, Marketing and Communications at: [email protected]