As we gather with family and friends to celebrate the holiday season, we may take the opportunity to pause and reflect on the year that has passed and look forward to the one ahead.
In 1996 we continued to deal with the upheavals caused by health care reform. Physicians across Canada have risen to the many challenges presented by governments intent on cutting health care budgets, but this has often been very difficult. It has also been difficult for other health care providers and, most of all, our patients.
In the year to come, health care reform will continue. All of us will have an opportunity to play a role in this process through medical organizations and our local communities. I am convinced that if we all get involved and make a contribution, the new health care system that emerges at the end of the reform process will be the best one possible.
As president, I have experienced the hospitality of my colleagues in many parts of our country and have been reminded of the many advantages we have as Canadians. At this time of year, when we are surrounded by friends and loved ones, we are reminded of what is important in life and how fortunate we are. We must remain thankful to live in a nation founded on values of compassion, cooperation and fairness. Canada is a good place to live, and physicians, through their unstinting efforts, help make it so.
I wish all of you a very happy holiday season and all the best for the new year.
Judith C. Kazimirski, MD
President