'TRUE CALLING': Dr. Sandy Buchman becomes 152nd Canadian Medical Association president
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The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) welcomes on board Sandy Buchman as their 152nd president.
Despite his new role, the newly-elected president still makes time to discuss the future of Canada’s health system — even while sitting in the doctor’s waiting room during his 96-year-old father’s appointment.
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With over 35 years of experience in patient care, Buchman says with certainty that becoming a doctor was his “true calling.”
He continuously emphasizes how proper patient care is rooted in understanding the feelings and needs of all patients – and even doctors.
Buchman — a University of Toronto professor with a background in palliative care — visits his patients at their homes to help with their physical, emotional, psychological, or even spiritual suffering.
“It rejuvenates me, keeps me young because there’s a meaning in my profession,” Buchman mused.
“I believe it’s a moral obligation or social accountability to give back in a compassionate way.”
As CMA’s president, he plans to tackle issues like wellness, climate change, access to care, youth mental health and addiction, senior care, palliative care, and Indigenous health.
On the top of the list is allowing people access to care — especially to Indigenous, seniors and those living on the streets.
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At the CMA’s recent summit in Toronto, Buchman talked about what the Canadian health care system needs to do in order to maximize its resources.
“Virtual care can help optimize how patients access care not only remotely but also to those who need it like seniors.”
Buchman says the use of technology can allow doctors to see patient’s vital signs, listen to their chest, measure blood pressure and make a more accurate diagnosis.
He uses the term “Amazonization” to explain how health care can be modernized to give Canadian patients more access to the necessary health care they need.
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Former CMA president Dr. Gigi Osler shared a selfie on Twitter with other Canadian physicians who attended the summit.
“Mad respect (heart emoticon) & appreciation for this inspiring generation of physicians. Future of Medicine in (Canada flag emoticon) is in good hands,” wrote Osler.
As the fall federal election approaches, Buchman believes a partnership with patients will help advocate improvements needed to reach politicians.
“Our mission is to empower patients with a vibrant workforce with no hierarchical system in our team.”
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