The CMA in its FAQs states:
Why do you have to belong to a provincial/territorial medical association in order to become a member of the CMA? In order to be an effective lobbyist, the CMA believes that the lobby activities must take place at both the provincial/territorial and national levels. In addition, membership in both the provincial/territorial medical association and the CMA provides tangible, visible support for the profession as a whole, from coast to coast to coast. Membership in the CMA complements provincial/territorial medical association membership by helping physicians meet day-to-day challenges through advocacy activities, professional development programs, publications, financial planning and practice management services.
So we can accept as fact that the CMA is a lobbyist. Lobbying may have a bad reputation but in fact is a healthy legitimate part of the communication process with government. There is nothing sinister about lobbying on its own. An organization that is a lobbyist does so on behalf of its members to promote a framework that is beneficial to its members. In theory, the greater good may also be served. Remember, self-interest over service may reward the outer circles of stakeholders too.
The CBC ran this article in August 3rd titled Doctors want medical pot phased out after legalization: Canadian Medical Association. Right away we see the word “pot” in the title rather than “cannabis”. A few sentences stood out for me:
“A lack of clinical studies is the reason most healthcare plans in Canada don't cover the cost of medical marijuana, said Blackmer.” So why does the CMA and other bodies not start or assist with more clinical studies? We have also been told that the reason is that medical cannabis does not have a DIN as this CBC article clearly states and is this the chicken and the egg because the reason given why there is not a DIN rests in a lack of clinic studies.
But if studies are what the CMA wants they one needs be patient because they are happening such as this one between Aurora Cannabis and McGill University with respect to chronic pain (Click Here). This Health Canada approved clinical trial with Tetra Bio-Pharma Inc to study cannabis vs fentanyl with respect to the management of breakthrough cancer paid will also be one to watch (Click Here).
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