guide ama/cma y o u r s e r v i c e membership

Transcription

1 guide membership ama/cma y o u r s e r v i c e

2 Alberta Medical Association Board of Directors Back row (left to right): Dr. Alison M. Clarke; Dr. Padraic E. Carr; Dr. Paul E. Boucher; Dr. Sarah L. Bates; Michael A. Gormley, Executive Director; Dr. Pauline Alakija; Dr. Daniel J. Barer; Dr. Khalil Jivraj, PARA observer; Dr. Kathryn L. Andrusky; Dr. Christine P. Molnar; Matthew S. Karpman, MSA observer Front row (left to right): Dr. Fredrykka D. Rinaldi; Dr. E. Sandra Corbett; Dr. Linda M. Slocombe, President; Dr. R. Michael Giuffre, President-Elect; Dr. Patrick J. White, Immediate Past President; Christine A. Fleck, Manager, Executive Office The easy way to get online Throughout this guide you will find several QR codes. Scan these codes using your smartphone or tablet device to be taken to relevant content online. Scanning the code above will take you instantly to the online version of the your service membership guide, or visit If you don t have a QR code reader app on your phone, download one for free from For an instruction video on how to read QR codes, visit Front cover Members of the Primary Care Alliance (PCA) Board of Directors Back row (left to right): Dr. G. Richard Spooner, Dr. Peter C. Jamieson, Dr. Tobias N.M. Gelber Front row (left to right): Dr. Allan L. Bailey, Dr. Ann R. Vaidya, Dr. Paul W.A. Humphries FSC logo fpo Registered trademarks of the Alberta Medical Association. Design: Evita McConnell Graphics Inc. Photography: Curtis Comeau Photography Fred Katz Fine Art Photography y o u r s e r v i c e

3 AMA s Senior Management Team Left to right: Sean T. Smith, Victor A. Taylor, Verlin R. Gwin, Dr. William S. Hnydyk, Ronald A. Kustra, Michael A. Gormley, Cameron N. Plitt, James A. Huston, Dr. Lyle B. Mittelsteadt Dear Colleague, As a member of the Alberta Medical Association (AMA) and Canadian Medical Association (CMA), you have two dedicated, member-oriented groups working to provide you with innovative products and services designed to meet your professional, personal and financial needs. The your service membership guide is a handy reference for information about membership and the wide range of benefits and services available to you and your family. We hope this guide will serve as an essential resource for your home and office. As you ll discover, the AMA and CMA are committed to working together to serve you at every stage of your medical career. Please contact the associations at any time for assistance or additional information. We re pleased to be at your service. ama vision Patients First mission The Alberta Medical Association stands as an advocate for its physician members, providing leadership and support for their role in the provision of quality health care. Value for Patients y o u r s e r v i c e Michael A. Gormley Executive Director, AMA Paul-Émile Cloutier Secretary General, CEO, CMA September 2012 cma vision A healthy population and a vibrant medical profession. mission To serve and unite the physicians of Canada and be the national advocate, in partnership with the people of Canada, for the highest standards of health and health care.

4 contents directory 2 Introduction 1 AMA/CMA Membership Membership Categories 4 Full membership 4 Special categories 4 Waiver of dues 5 Leadership and Member Involvement 6 Representative Forum 6 AMA Board of Directors 6 AMA committee activities 6 Sections 7 Students and residents 7 AMA annual general meeting 8 CMA Annual Meeting 8 Member Benefits and Services Negotiated Benefits 10 Medical Liability Reimbursement 10 Continuing Medical Education 10 Retention Benefit 11 Parental Leave 11 Southern Alberta Office 12 Insurance Programs 12 AMA-Endorsed Service Providers 13 Home/Automobile/Tenant Insurance 13 AMA Commercial Office Insurance 13 AMA Physician and Family Support Program 14 CMA Member Discounts 14 Trusted Financial Solutions 15 MD Physician Services 15 Practice Management 16 CMA Physician Health Services 16 Practice support AMA Physician Locum Services 18 Rural Locum Program 18 Specialist Locum Program 18 Physician placement listing service 18 Locum billings 18 Office Practice Management 19 Health information and privacy 19 AMA Practice Management Program 19 Business Costs Program 19 Rural, Remote, Northern Program 19 Physician Office System Program 20 Physician On-Call Programs 20 Patient Care 21 Toward Optimized Practice Program 21 Alberta Perinatal Health Program 21 Health Issues Council 21 Primary Care Initiative 22 Professional Development and Support for Physicians 22 CMA Leadership and Professional Development 22 CME accredited training 23 CMA Tools for Practicing Physicians 24 Policy and Position Papers 24 Advocacy Government Relations 26 AMA government affairs 26 CMA MD-MP Contact Program 26 Negotiations 26 Master Agreement 26 Other negotiations 27 Physician Compensation Services 27 Physician Compensation Strategy 27 Schedule of Medical Benefits 28 Billing advice 28 Insured services 28 Uninsured services 28 Billing seminars 28 Alternate relationship plans 29 CMA Advocacy 29 Interaction with the Public 30 Public image 30 Health advocacy 30 Alberta Medical Foundation 30 Communications Websites 32 AMA website 32 CMA website 33 Other Communication Links 34 AMA publications 34 AMA updates 34 CMA publications 35 Stay connected with CMA 35 AMA Directory 36 CMA Directory 39 AMA-Endorsed Service Providers 39 Corporate Rate Programs 39 Back Cover AMA ADIUM Insurance Services Inc. CMA MD Physician Services AMA/CMA membership y o u r s e r v i c e Agnes E. McIntyre and Amanda G. Lacombe Administrative Assistants Section Services

5 membership Membership Categories All membership categories, except 81 and 82, include CMA as well as AMA membership. Full membership A doctor of medicine or doctor of osteopathy who is a registered practitioner, licensed and in good standing with the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), and residing in Alberta, is eligible for full membership. These members are entitled to all rights and privileges of AMA membership and can vote and hold office with the association. 05 Insured Services a member who provides any insured medical services paid for by Alberta Health (AH), directly by fee-for-service or through another payment method. (Laboratory physicians are included in this group.) Physicians providing insured services are eligible for medical liability reimbursement (MLR) and continuing medical education (CME) reimbursement provided they meet the program eligibility criteria. 14 First Year in Practice an Insured Services member as defined above who is engaged in the first year of medical practice. Residents who upgrade July through September pay 40% of the total membership dues. Those who renew or join for the new membership year, commencing October 1, will pay 60% of the total membership dues for that year. (Physicians who have practiced in other provinces or countries do not qualify for this category.) 32 Administrative a member who does not provide any insured medical services paid for by AH. Examples of physicians in this category include those in administrative or academic positions, opted-out physicians, medical officers of health, etc. This category does not qualify for MLR or CME reimbursements. (See note on page 5.) Special categories 34 Supervised Physician a member who: Possesses a restricted license to practice medicine issued by the CPSA. Works on behalf of an attending or most responsible physician. Is not a student, resident, retired, non-resident, life, or honorary member, member emeritus or a member-at-large. Can neither provide nor receive payment for insured services nor is eligible for the benefit plans (as defined under the Master Agreement). 42 Resident a member taking postgraduate training in an Alberta program and registered with the CPSA. (See note on page 5.) 52 Retired a member who fully retires from the practice of the profession. These members are entitled to all rights and privileges of full members. (See note on page 5.) 71 Medical Student 81 Non-Resident a member who resides outside Alberta. This category includes AMA membership only; it does not include CMA membership. Non-Resident members have the privileges of a full member but are not entitled to vote or hold office. 82 Out-of-Province Resident a resident member taking postgraduate training outside Alberta. This category includes AMA membership, but not CMA membership. Note: Your membership category is determined by your status as of October 1, Physicians may upgrade, if status changes, to category 05 or 14 prior to September 30, 2012 to access CME and MLR benefits (if eligible). For example, if an administrative physician begins to bill fee-for-service, or a retired member begins to practice again, membership may be upgraded to category 05 to take advantage of CME and MLR benefits. Contact: Kirsten M. Sieben AMA Membership and Benefits Waiver of dues AMA membership dues will be waived for the period of time a physician is away from practice if the physician is fully disabled. Membership dues will be waived for the full months away from practice, but not the partial months at the beginning or end of the leave. The physician should contact the AMA at the beginning of the leave to learn about the waiver requirements. Dr. June S. Bergman Former RF delegate For the period where dues are waived, the physician will not be eligible for reimbursement from the MLR program. Provided the physician practices at some time during the calendar year, CME allotment will be retained. Physicians have access to all other benefits while their dues are waived. Contact: Kirsten M. Sieben AMA Membership and Benefits DID you know As of May 2012, the AMA has 10,884 members (about 94% of Alberta s practicing physicians including 1,211 medical students and 1,066 residents). 4 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

6 membership AMA Board of Directors Sections Students and residents Dr. Felix Soibelman RF Delegate Section of Emergency Medicine Leadership and Member Involvement Representative Forum (RF) The RF is the ultimate authority of the AMA and is responsible for overall policy direction in the best interests of members. Broad representation is achieved with the input of over 125 representatives from zones, sections, AMA past presidents, medical faculties, the Professional Association of Resident Physicians of Alberta (PARA), medical student associations, the CPSA and others. The RF meets in the spring and fall each year. AMA members are welcome to attend as observers or to serve as delegates. Contact: Charlene G. Daniel AMA Executive Office The AMA board consists of the AMA president, president-elect and immediate past president; two observers; and 10 directors who are elected by and from RF delegates. Elections are held at the fall RF, with approximately one-third of the board elected each year. The board develops and implements policy (based on RF policy direction) officers President: Dr. R. Michael Giuffre Past President: Dr. Linda M. Slocombe President-Elect: Dr. Allan S. Garbutt Contact: Christine A. Fleck AMA Executive Office AMA committee activities Each year the AMA invites members to share their expertise by volunteering to serve on various standing, ad hoc and special committees. Members express their talents and develop leadership skills through professional, political or medical avenues. Committees require a continuity of experience and a cross-section of regional, specialty and gender representation. In January and February, an application form is available on the AMA website and MD Scope issues provide information about committee membership. Contact: Ava L. Butterworth AMA Nominating Committee Sections represent the special interests of various practice segments of the profession. Section members help to set direction for the AMA through their delegates to the RF. Sections consolidate the views of their members and convey them to AMA committees, the AMA board and RF. Sections provide input on negotiations; changes and allocation of increases to the physician services budget; and patient care initiatives. AMA membership is a prerequisite for section membership. The AMA provides both financial and administrative support to sections (e.g., assisting with mailings, minutes, agendas, meeting planning, section web pages, etc.). The AMA also collects dues for sections upon request, and maintains membership databases for these sections. The AMA board is committed to ensuring sections remain strong and viable. Members are encouraged to support their respective sections by paying active membership dues, attending section annual general meetings and participating on the section executive. Contact: Agnes E. McIntyre Amanda G. Lacombe Section Services Alberta student and resident issues and interests are voiced through their medical student and resident associations, observer status on the AMA board, PARA representation to the RF, and committee efforts. In addition, the Committee on Student Affairs reports to the RF and board. Students and residents are represented on the CMA Board of Directors and its five core committees. Via this representation, student and resident issues addressed by the CMA have included: tuition fees and the federal loan repayment schedule, health human resource strategies, career flexibility, and setting standards for on-call maximums. Separate membership guides are distributed to students and residents describing programs and services tailored to their needs. Contact: Jennifer A. McCombe AMA Membership and Benefits; or CMA Member Service Centre Scan to find out how you can join or renew your membership, or visit 6 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

7 membership AMA annual general meeting (AGM) Each September, prior to the AMA AGM, members receive reports from the executive director, RF, Committee on Constitution and Bylaws and the auditors report from the Committee on Financial Audit. The AGM reports are also available on the AMA website. In conjunction with the AGM, the incoming president is installed. As well, AMA long-service, achievement and members emeritus awards are presented. AMA members are welcome to attend the AGM. Contact: Charlene G. Daniel AMA Executive Office CMA Annual Meeting The CMA Annual Meeting is held each August. It is an opportunity for members to attend business sessions that consider critical issues referred by General Council. Integral parts of the annual meeting include: Ceremonial session CMA installs the president, elects its officers, presents awards and confers honorary and senior memberships. Members Forum Initiated in 2009, Members Forum turns the floor of General Council over to member observers as well as members joining online, to give them the opportunity to ask questions of the leaders of the association about issues of concern to them. Open invitation to members For the past several years, invitations have been sent to member physicians of the host and surrounding provinces to attend and observe at no cost. DID you know Contact: CMA Conference and Travel Management or visit cma.ca/gc The AMA s AGM alternates between Edmonton and Calgary. Edmonton 2012: September 22 Edmonton 2013: September 28 Calgary 2014: September 20 member benefits and Services y o u r s e r v i c e Kelly J. Guest Insurance Advisor ADIUM Insurance Services Inc. 8

8 member benefits and services negotiated benefits* AMA membership provides physicians with access to a number of negotiated benefits: Medical Liability Reimbursement; Continuing Medical Education; Retention Benefit; and Parental Leave. These benefits are also available to non-members who pay an administrative fee equal to the cost of full membership. However, these physicians are not eligible for other personal and professional membership benefits. *At the time of publication, all programs are as described and subject to change pending negotiations. Eligible physicians are: Resident, licensed and practicing medicine in Alberta. Members in good standing in category 05 or 15 (Insured Services), 14 (First Year in Practice) or non-members who have paid an administrative fee equal to category 05 membership (e.g., to receive the 2012 benefit you have been a member or have paid the administration fee equal to the membership fee). Providing eligible services during the calendar year. Eligible services are: Insured services, whether billed on a fee-for-service basis, paid through Alberta Health Services (AHS) or another paying agency. Clinical services provided through an alternate relationship plan. Services provided through the Physician On-Call Program. Services provided through AMA Physician Locum Services. Public health services provided through AHS. Physicians may call the AMA to verify eligibility. Reimbursement payments are available through electronic funds transfer. Medical Liability Reimbursement (MLR) AMA s MLR program reimburses eligible physicians for a portion of their Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA) dues. For physicians practicing part of the year, the benefit will be prorated by month. Eligible physicians are reimbursed for the months in which they practice in Alberta. Contact: Deanna J. Longmuir AMA Membership and Benefits Continuing Medical Education (CME) The CME program reimburses physicians for eligible expenses incurred when attending education sessions. Eligible expenses include course registration fees, travel costs, maintenance costs (meals and hotels) and overhead costs ($50 per approved continuous professional development [CPD] credit). The $2,500 annual CME allotment may also be used for the purchase of CMErelated books and subscriptions. Up to half of the allotment may be used for computer purchases. The application form, CME Administrative Policy outlining eligible expenses, and a statement detailing unused CME allotment are sent to eligible physicians in May and are also available on the AMA website. Annual allotments carry forward for three years but expire on March 31 of the fourth year if not used (e.g., you have until March 31, 2013 to use your 2010 allotment). Contact: Deanna J. Longmuir AMA Membership and Benefits Retention Benefit The Retention Benefit helps retain physicians by rewarding their years of service to Albertans. Benefit payments are issued in February following the benefit year (e.g., the 2012 benefit will be paid in February The 2012 benefit is based on a physician s eligible income in the 2011 calendar year). The amount of the benefit is determined based on an eligible physician s years of service in Alberta and the amount of eligible income the physician was paid in the calendar year immediately preceding the benefit year. To receive the full benefit amount in a given year, a physician s income from eligible services must be $80,000 or more. Benefit amount: 1 5 years $4, years $7, years $9, years $12,100 A physician s payment will be prorated according to the income received for eligible services he or she provided in the previous calendar year: 100% if income $80,000 or more 75% if income $60,000 $79,999 50% if income $40,000 $59,999 25% if income $10,000 $39,999 0% if income under $10,000 Contact: Shannon H. Neuman AMA Membership and Benefits Parental Leave The Parental Leave Program provides $1,000 per week for 17 consecutive weeks of leave to eligible physician parents of a newborn or newly adopted child. To receive funding, the physician parent must meet criteria (listed on page 10) within the 12 months immediately prior to taking parental leave. Application forms and the policy statement are on the AMA website. Contact: Shannon H. Neuman AMA Membership and Benefits DID you know In 2011, the AMA provided parental leave benefits to 236 physicians 101 male, 133 female. 10 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

9 member benefits and services Southern Alberta Office The Southern Alberta Office (SAO) in Calgary co-locates with MD Physician Services to provide an AMA presence in southern Alberta. SAO accommodates the AMA Practice Management Program, the AMA Physician and Family Support Program, staff from ADIUM Insurance Services Inc., staff from the Alternate Relationship Plan Program Management Office, and several Calgary-based Physician Office System Program staff. Videoconferences enable Calgary-area members and staff to participate in AMA meetings. Contact: Southern Alberta Office INSURANCE PROGRAMS Group Insurance Benefit from highly competitive group insurance plans, underwritten by leading companies in the insurance industry, with no added fees or commissions. Since 1950, AMA has provided members with value-added group insurance programs administered by its wholly owned insurance agency, ADIUM Insurance Services Inc. Disability Insurance Protect your income if you are disabled due to injury or sickness. Office Overhead Expense Insurance Cover your practice expenses if you are disabled due to injury or sickness. Term Life Insurance Provide financial security for your spouse and/or your dependents in the event you die prematurely. Coverage is also available for your spouse. Critical Illness Insurance Protect yourself and your family from the financial impact associated with a critical illness. Coverage is also available for your spouse. Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance The Member Only or Member and Family plans provide lump-sum benefits in the event of accidental death or dismemberment. AMA Health Benefits Trust Fund (AMA HBTF) A private health services plan, AMA HBTF provides flexible and competitive health insurance benefits for you, your family and, optionally, your employees on a tax-effective basis. The unique AMA Premium Discount allows for the discounting of the already competitive group premiums resulting from favorable financial experience. The 2012 discount is 20% on the Disability and Office Overhead Expense plans and 15% on the Term Life Insurance plan; the average discount over the past eight years has been 17%. This benefit of nonprofit group insurance cannot be found through other retail insurance plans. Individual insurance products In addition to the group plans, AMA/ CMA members and their family members may also access individual Lifestyle insurance products through ADIUM Insurance Services Inc. Lifestyle products include Term Life, Disability, Critical Illness and Long Term Care insurance that can supplement your AMA group coverage, or be used when the group plans cannot be offered. Contact: ADIUM Insurance Services Inc. Dr. Christine P. Molnar Member AMA Board of Directors In addition to the group plans offered by ADIUM, you may also access individual insurance products through the Insurance & Wealth Management Alliance between the AMA and MD Physician Services: Life and health insurance for AMA/ CMA members and their family members to supplement AMA group coverage. Permanent life insurance products, such as universal life insurance and whole life insurance, which combine life insurance coverage with the flexibility to build a pool of tax-advantaged investments as part of your overall portfolio. MD s insurance specialists have the expertise and objectivity required to ensure clients maximize the benefits insurance can offer both on a personal and professional corporation basis. For more information visit our website at or contact us at Contact: MD Physician Services AMA-Endorsed Service Providers Home/Automobile/Tenant Insurance For over 60 years, TD Insurance Meloche Monnex has been the leader of home and automobile insurance programs to more than 200 professional associations, colleges, university alumni and student associations across Canada. As an AMA member, you can enjoy significant savings on preferred group rates for home, automobile and tenant insurance thanks to our 30-year partnership with TD Insurance Meloche Monnex. Contact: TD Insurance Meloche Monnex AMA Commercial Office Insurance Mardon Group Insurance offers a comprehensive and competitive commercial office insurance program for AMA members. The program is underwritten by leading national and international property and casualty insurers including RSA and Intact. Contact: Mardon Group Insurance 12 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

10 member benefits and services AMA Physician and Family Support Program (PFSP) Single point of access to PFSP support services Call toll-free: for confidential assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. In 2011, over 1,200 individuals contacted PFSP, receiving confidential support and assistance regarding personal health issues. Physicians, residents, medical students and their immediate families (i.e., spouse/partner and dependent children) can access PFSP for the following types of issues: Family and relationship issues Career and work concerns, including adverse events, complaints and medical/legal issues Stress, anxiety, other mental health issues and psychiatric disorders Substance use disorders Behavioral problems Concern for a colleague Help in finding a personal family physician To inquire about PFSP health promotion and education services pfsp@albertadoctors.org and check out the PFSP web page at Contact: AMA Physician and Family Support Program CMA MEMBER DISCOUNTS CMA member discounts give every CMA member access to exclusive rates and special offers from businesses you know and trust. Save on everything you need to strike a healthy balance between business and pleasure from travel and technology to fitness and recreation. Car rentals Hotels Travel Cellular plan Business services Mobile software Sports and leisure Publications Visit cma.ca/memberdiscounts. Contact: CMA Member Service Centre Scan for eligibility information and more information about the AMA Physician and Family Support Program, or visit Dr. Clayne Steed Past President, AMA ( ) Trusted Financial Solutions MD Physician Services MD Physician Services (MD) focuses solely on helping Canada s physicians to achieve greater financial security and peace of mind. MD provides Canada s physicians with personalized, expert advice and best-in-class solutions to meet their financial and practice needs from the first day of medical school right through to retirement. Owned by the CMA, for more than 40 years MD has leveraged its unrivalled understanding of physicians unique needs, to help clients build wealth and capitalize on opportunities that ensure they meet their personal and professional goals. With close to $30 billion in assets under administration, MD has been recognized by several industry third parties for client satisfaction and growth. Additionally, MD s PS Suite Software is backed by the CMA and is the electronic medical record (EMR) platform that clients trust for the long-term success of their practices. MD is an exclusive benefit of CMA membership. This exclusivity enables MD to uniquely focus on driving maximum value for our physician members through objective noncommissioned advice, competitive pricing and innovative technology to enhance practices and improve patient care. MD s teams of advisors and specialists, located across Canada, always act in the best interests of clients while delivering exceptional service, tailored solutions and trusted advice. Financial advice Pursue your personal and professional financial goals with customized, comprehensive and objective financial advice engineered exclusively for physicians. Investment and portfolio management Benefit from highly personalized service, advice and communication about your investments. You can expect comprehensive financial advice and strategic direction from a knowledgeable MD advisor. You may also choose to delegate the day-to-day management of your portfolio to an expert portfolio manager, while maintaining control of your overall investment strategy. Incorporation Our clients benefit from the insight of a team of 300-plus trained incorporation experts. Your MD advisor has the expertise and analytical tools to determine if it is right for your practice, and strategies to take optimal advantage of incorporation. 14 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

11 member BENEFITS AND SERVICES Insurance solutions Objective, pressure-free advice and solutions from specialists in personal and corporate life and health insurance. Your team of insurance specialists, at MD and the AMA, work together to help you attain greater financial security through objective advice and effective insurance solutions. Estate and trust Our estate and trust specialists can help you maximize, control and share your wealth more effectively by developing strategies to create continuous financial security. Banking solutions Enjoy objective advice on how to better meet your banking and borrowing needs and goals. We offer practical strategies to help you optimize your cash flow and eliminate debt sooner through access to a full range of physician-focused personal and business banking and borrowing solutions. For more information visit our website at or contact us at PS Suite Software Designed by physicians, for physicians, PS Suite EMR works the way you do. Owned and backed by the CMA, you can count on PS Suite EMR to be there for the long-term success of your practice so you can focus on what matters most your patients. Practice Advice Helping physicians transform their practices into effective businesses by providing virtual advice in areas such as practice design, technology and human resources. Practice Management Education Resident curriculum seminars, online resources and accredited CME cruises. For more information, contact our practice hotline at or practice.hotline@cma.ca. Contact: Practice Hotline Registered trademark of the Canadian Medical Association, used under licence. Practice Management MD Physician Services provides you with proven advice and a leading electronic medical record (EMR) solution along with extensive educational resources to help you manage your practice. CMA PHYSICIAN HEALTH SERVICES CMA provides leadership, education and research to keep Canadian physicians healthy. Through practical programs and tools based on best practices and as a dedicated physician health advocate, the CMA empowers and equips physicians and their medical communities to achieve a healthy and resilient medical culture. Contact: CMA Physician Health Practice support y o u r s e r v i c e Ryan J. Murray Director, Contract Negotiations Health Economics 16

12 practice support AMA Physician Locum Services AMA Physician Locum Services, an AMA benefit program, is funded by the physician services budget and the Alberta Rural Physician Action Plan. Locums are contracted with the AMA to provide services on a full- or part-time basis. In there were 1,777 locum assignments. Rural Locum Program Rural physicians in eligible communities may access the Rural Locum Program for weekends, shortterm or seniors coverage. In there were: 397 weekend assignments 537 senior weekend assignments 318 regular assignments Specialist Locum Program Specialist locum coverage is provided in the regional centers outside Calgary and Edmonton. In there were: 525 specialist assignments Physician placement listing service An interactive registry of locum and employment opportunities is located on the AMA website for urban and rural communities in Alberta. Members can post their needs for locums and/or associates directly on the AMA web page or request AMA staff to post the listing information. Contact: Barry A. Brayshaw AMA Physician Locum Services Locum billings AMA Physician Locum Services locums billings are submitted through an in-house service at the AMA. Please contact an AMA Physician Locum Services billing coordinator with any billing-related matters pertaining to a locum assignment. Contact: Janet F. Cooper Amy M. Waldroff AMA Health Economics Scan for more information about AMA Physician Locum Services and how we can help you, or visit Office Practice Management Health information and privacy Physicians safeguard the privacy of patient information every day. The AMA website contains resources to deal with the legislative requirements of the Health Information Act, which governs such matters in Alberta. Go to the AMA website for further information. Contact: Shannon E. Rupnarain AMA Public Affairs AMA Practice Management Program (PMP) PMP provides business consulting services at no cost to physicians in primary care networks (PCNs) who require help with business and practice issues. PMP s experienced consultants assist physicians in making informed business decisions. Contact PMP if you are a physician in a PCN and you need assistance with business issues. Our services include, but are not limited to: PCN development and renewal Governance and leadership Change management Information management and technology Finance and accounting Practice review and operations management Corporate goal setting and score carding Human resources management Contact: Linda A. Ertman AMA Practice Management Program Business Costs Program (BCP) The BCP provides physicians with additional financial support to address the impact of increasing business costs on the stability and attractiveness of practice. All physicians in the province who provide visit services in an officebased setting are eligible to receive payments through the BCP. Payments are automatically applied to a list of eligible, office-based visit services when a fee-for-service claim is submitted. BCP payments for alternate relationship plan physicians are reflected as a percentage increase, based on services provided. Rural, Remote, Northern Program (RRNP) The RRNP addresses the challenges of recruiting and retaining physicians in rural, remote and northern areas of Alberta by providing financial incentives to physicians who live and/or work in these communities. There are two types of RRNP incentive payments a flat-fee component based on living and working in an eligible community, and a variable-fee component based on services provided in an eligible community. Various eligibility criteria apply. Contact: Verlin R. Gwin AMA Health Economics 18 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

13 practice support Dr. Christine P. Kyriakides RF Delegate Edmonton Zone, Region 6 Physician Office System Program (POSP) POSP s role is to enable the use of EMRs by physicians to improve patient care and support best practice care delivery within Alberta s electronic health environment. Through a combination of funding, information technology services and change management services, POSP helps Alberta physicians incorporate information technology into their practices. Under the renewed program, physicians may select a physician office system from one of three qualified service providers that were selected though a competitive request-forproposal process conducted by Alberta Health. Contact: Physician Office System Program PHYSICIAN ON-CALL PROGRAMS (POCP) POCP provides remuneration for eligible Specialist On-Call programs, that are regionally mandated by Alberta Health Services, where the physician: Is on-call to see new patients for other services. Provides emergency specialist care, typically in an acute-care setting. Rural On-Call funding is in place where: Rural physicians are available to provide rural emergency on-call services at eligible facilities. There is general public emergency on-call coverage 24 hours-a-day. The emergency department is not staffed by full-time physicians. There are fewer than 25,000 unscheduled visits annually. Contact: Ryan J. Murray AMA Health Economics Patient Care Toward Optimized Practice (TOP) Program TOP supports physicians and their teams in practice improvement efforts through an array of programs and services. Programs such as Informed Practice promote the use of evidencebased research to encourage and support best clinical practices through the development of clinical practice guidelines and summaries, as well as innovative practice tools and resources for practical use. Updates, guidelines and more information are available on the TOP website at TOP also works with researchers to design cutting edge support for physicians through action research which provides both research and practice benefits. Through initiatives such as Tobacco Reduction and Cessation II (TRaCII) and Enhanced Participation in Cancer Screening II (EPICSII), TOP assists in creating substantial clinical improvements. More information on TOP and its initiatives is available at Practice improvements TOP clinical process advisors offer customized support for practice improvements in clinics including: New care delivery method information and tools. Measurement tools and resources. Integrated and effective care team development. Primary and specialty care coordination. Process mapping and redesign for efficiency and workflow improvements. Small- and large-scale improvements to support clinical-care delivery with best practice tools and resources. Contact: Doug Stich TOP Program Alberta Perinatal Health Program (APHP) The AMA partners with AHS in the APHP. The program provides quality assurance (QA) activities related to maternal and infant mortality and morbidity review through the AMA Committee on Reproductive Care. These QA activities were transitioned to Alberta Health Services in August Contact: Dr. William S. Hnydyk AMA Professional Affairs Health Issues Council (HIC) Members benefit from advice and information on clinical and health issues examined through the AMA HIC. Council members identify needs, prepare resource material and speak out on behalf of the profession. For example, HIC has advocated for tobacco cessation and the prevention of seniors falls. The council also offers a grant program open to medical students or resident physicians interested in leading a health promotion project. The Emerging Leaders in Health Promotion grants support development of health advocacy and leadership skills during training. Contact: Janet E. Boyer AMA Health Issues Council 20 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

14 practice support PRIMARY CARE INITIATIVE (PCI) PCI oversees the development, implementation and evaluation of primary care networks (PCNs). In a PCN, family physicians lead a multidisciplinary team of health professionals to improve access to care and coordinate primary care services. As of July 2012, there were 40 PCNs operating in Alberta, with several more in development. Approximately 80% of eligible family physicians in Alberta provide patient care within a PCN. Contact: Lee L. Hall Primary Care Initiative PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND SUPPORT FOR PHYSICIANS Physician Learning Program (PLP) PLP provides feedback to physicians on their practices and identifies opportunities for continuing professional development. By analyzing information from aggregated provincial databases and physicians own practice-specific records, the program helps physicians improve their practice and patient outcomes. Through quality improvement projects developed by physician committees, the program provides a unique opportunity to provide an evidence-based perspective on individual practice. Contact: Dr. William S. Hnydyk AMA Professional Affairs CMA Leadership and Professional Development CMA is a trusted source of physician leadership development opportunities and resources, designed to enhance physicians effectiveness, profile and reputation as leaders, and better prepare them to practice clinically in a rapidly changing health care environment. The CMA offers the following tools and resources: Physician Management Institute (PMI) CMA s leadership development program designed specifically for physicians working in Canada s health care system. Take scheduled PMI courses at major centers across Canada or courses can be delivered at your organization to members of your multidisciplinary health care team. PMI online resources include userfriendly tutorials on management and leadership topics supplied by Harvard Business School Publishing. Visit cma.ca/pmi. Canadian Conference on Physician Leadership The aim of the conference is to engage physicians at all levels of leadership, from physician executives to students and residents. The conference features a combination of engaging keynote speakers and interactive, practical workshops. Visit Canadian Certified Physician Executive Credential Developed to recognize and advance physician leadership, this program is based on the CMA s Physician Leadership Competency Framework and uses peer assessment to ensure physicians demonstrate the knowledge and skills to be successful in leadership/ executive-type roles. Visit cma.ca/ccpe. CME-accredited training The CMA offers CME-accredited practice management education seminars for practicing physicians. It also offers the Practice Management Curriculum Program for residents at medical schools across Canada. A listing of nearly 300 highly valued CME/CPD credits is available online at cma.ca. These courses provide a way to achieve educational goals at a self-directed learning pace. Contact: CMA Leadership and Professional Development Dr. Lyle B. Mittelsteadt Senior Medical Advisor Professional Affairs 22 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

15 PRACTICE SUPPORT CMA TOOLS FOR PRACTIcING PHYSICIANS Physicians face an increasingly complex professional and ethical environment and a public making more demands than ever before on physicians time and resources. The CMA s suite of tools can provide physicians with assistance and practical guidelines. The Code of Ethics provides guidance for physicians in their relationships with patients, society and the profession. The Health Information Privacy Code is a set of principles for protecting the privacy of patients and the confidentiality of their health information. Contact the CMA Member Service Centre to receive a complimentary copy of Privacy in Practice: A Handbook for Canadian Physicians, or download it free from cma.ca. Determining Medical Fitness to Drive: A Guide for Physicians provides clear guidelines to help physicians assess if a patient meets the medical requirements to drive a vehicle. Contact the CMA Member Service Centre to receive a complimentary copy. Third-Party Forms Essentials is a repository of health-related forms from federal, provincial and territorial governments, as well as several insurance companies. Physicians and the Pharmaceutical Industry provides guidelines for relationships between physicians and the industry in such areas as clinical research and continuing medical education. Pandemic Influenza Planning Checklist for the Physician Office helps physicians prepare their offices for a health emergency. The checklist can be adapted to meet your unique needs and setting. Contact: CMA Member Service Centre Policy and Position Papers Members benefit from AMA and CMA leadership and direction with positions, policy and discussion on important and complex issues facing the profession. Examples include: AMA Vision for Primary and Chronic Care Medical exemptions from seat belt use Electronic medical records Contact: AMA website; or CMA Member Service Centre advocacy y o u r s e r v i c e Dr. Richard G. Johnston Chair, AMA Negotiating Committee Health Economics 24

16 advocacy Dr. Alison M. Clarke Member AMA Board of Directors Government Relations AMA government affairs AMA s advocacy of physicians interests and views to government is pursued through various strategic activities of the Doctor s Black Bag government affairs program. AMA encourages individual physician communication with members of the Legislative Assembly, as well as through the AMA s MD-MLA Contact Program. (Participate in our MD-MLA network!) The AMA Government Affairs Committee meets with MLAs. The AMA attends political meetings and conventions. The AMA offers political affairs training and workshops. Contact: Ronald A. Kustra Shannon E. Rupnarain, AMA Public Affairs CMA MD-MP Contact Program This program gives you one-on-one contact with your member of Parliament so you can take direct action to improve your profession and your life. Contact: CMA MD-MP Contact Program elobby A web-based, three-step application that makes it easy for physicians to write to their MPs and voice their position about key health care issues. Contact: CMA MD-MP Contact Program Negotiations Master Agreement The AMA represents physicians in negotiations with government and Alberta Health Services (AHS). The Trilateral Master Agreement (TMA), an eight-year agreement between Alberta Health, the AMA and AHS, expired March 31, Negotiations for a new agreement are still underway. Programs and services that continue to be funded pending a new agreement include the following: Business Costs Program (page 19) Rural, Remote, Northern Program (page 19) Physician Office System Program (page 20) Physician On-Call Programs (page 20) Primary Care Initiative (page 22) Payments to physicians for insured services (page 28) through fee-forservice or alternate relationship plans (page 29) Benefits/Programs: Medical liability reimbursement (page 10) Continuing medical education reimbursement (page 10) Retention Benefit (page 11) Parental Leave Program (page 11) Physician and Family Support Program (page 14) Rural Locum Program (page 18) Specialist Locum Program (page 18) Toward Optimized Practice Program (page 21) Contact: James A. Huston AMA Health Economics Other negotiations Upon request, the AMA assists groups of physicians in their negotiations with payors outside of the fee-forservice payment system. The support can range from providing background information and data analysis to actively participating in all discussions. Some groups the AMA has assisted include: Cancer Care physicians Community health physicians Clinical associates (AHS) Palliative care physicians Laboratory physicians Professional Association of Resident Physicians of Alberta Contact: Ryan J. Murray AMA Health Economics Physician Compensation services Physician Compensation Strategy The AMA s Physician Compensation Committee (PCC) oversees and executes the Physician Compensation Strategy on behalf of the Board of Directors to ensure that physician compensation systems and programs are aligned, designed and implemented to achieve the AMA s goals, and congruent with the AMA s overall physician compensation philosophy. The Physician Compensation Strategy guides the development of policy and initiatives that focus on accomplishing three objectives equity, access and productivity. It also works to maintain linkages between delivery strategies and compensation strategies. Some examples of PCC initiatives include: Redefining a full-time equivalent (FTE) methodology. Addressing overhead issues including implementing the Physician Business Costs Study. Ensuring alignment of Provincial Academic Alternate Relationship Plan with Physician Compensation Strategy. Improving upon remuneration choices for the profession, including flexibility for principle-driven payment models. Identifying strategic linkages with the Alberta health system. Contact: James A. Huston AMA Health Economics 26 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

17 advocacy Schedule of Medical Benefits (SOMB) The SOMB lists all the health service codes that physicians are able to bill for their services and the rules that govern billing. AMA sections, AH and AHS may propose changes to the SOMB. Members may initiate a request through their sections by completing a form available from the AMA and submitting it to their sections for consideration. Along with AH and AHS, AMA is jointly responsible for: Setting and revising physician fees. Updating/maintaining intersectional-relative values. Adding new items to the SOMB. Changing/updating general rules and assessments. Contact: Marisa Q. Bonuccelli AMA Health Economics Uninsured services The AMA s Guidelines to Billing Uninsured Services (2011), available exclusively for members, identifies uninsured and third-party services. Fee guidelines are suggested for third-party, administrative and clinical services. Other fees are set or agreed-to by various organizations including the Law Society of Alberta (medical-legal fees) and various government departments (social services fees, motor vehicle insurance rates). Billing and audit advice is also provided for members working with Workers Compensation Board (WCB) patients. Contact: D Arcy A. Shade AMA Health Economics CMA Advocacy One powerful voice for Canadian physicians Recognizing that effective advocacy is one important way to bring about change, our dynamic membership has been involved in many initiatives in conjunction with the CMA. Transforming health care Together, we examine options and potential outcomes, develop discussion papers and enact action plans. Access and wait times As directed by you, the CMA helped introduce national wait-time benchmarks and wait-time guarantees and continues to influence policy decisions. Pensions CMA has joined with 11 other national professional associations to expand access to, and investment in, pensions of self-employed individuals. The group (Retirement Income Improvement Coalition) has made several presentations to government. Third-party forms Success has been achieved in simplifying CPP-D follow-up requests, standardizing insurance companies Short Term Disability Claim form and increasing payment for completing initial medical reports for CPP disability program applicants from $65 to $85. Billing advice Insured services Billing advice for insured services is provided for members by or telephone. Clarification of billing rules and service descriptions are also provided regarding questions about billing audits. Legal advice is not provided. Contact: Marilyn L. Kroon D Arcy A. Shade Marisa Q. Bonuccelli AMA Health Economics Billing seminars Seminars and on-site billing consultations are offered. Discussions include changes to the SOMB, understanding governing rules, claim rejections and resubmissions, thirdparty uninsured services, evaluating current billing practices and making billing practices more efficient. Contact: Georgina H. Welch AMA Health Economics Scan for more information about our billing seminars and how to register for them, or visit Dr. Khalil Jivraj PARA Observer AMA Board of Directors Alternate relationship plans (ARPs) The AMA continues to be involved in discussions with government, interested physicians and AHS regarding the development of ARPs. Expanded and new ARPs are being implemented. The ARP Program Management Office is an independent office with administrative responsibility through the AMA and accountability to AHS, AMA and AH. Contact: Ryan J. Murray for ARP policy and process issues, AMA Health Economics; or Contact: for ARP program inquiries, ARP Program Management Office 28 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

18 advocacy Interaction with the Public Public image The AMA and CMA influence the public s perception of physicians through: Media relations programs designed to provide accurate, balanced information. Public awareness campaigns to convey physician points-of-view directly to the public and seek their feedback. Building relationships and identifying common interests with various groups. Contact: Shannon E. Rupnarain AMA Public Affairs; or CMA Member Service Centre Scan to view the AMA s advocacy campaign, "Let s talk about health care," or visit Health advocacy By profiling issues or concerns and by responding to legislative changes or other proposals, the AMA voices physicians views on matters that have an impact on health care or on their ability to provide quality care and put Patients First. The association, while officially representing the views of physicians, encourages individual members to communicate their views in a personal approach through one-on-one discussions, media interviews or letters to the editor. Contact: Ronald A. Kustra Shannon E. Rupnarain AMA Public Affairs Alberta Medical Foundation This AMA charitable organization is dedicated to promoting the research, study and appreciation of Alberta s history of medicine. Contact: Mavis A. Stoyko AMA Corporate communications y o u r s e r v i c e 30 Kathy Garnsworthy (Manager, Website) RuthAnn Raycroft (Coordinator, Website) Public Affairs

19 communications WEBSITES The new AMA website: revamped, revitalized and redesigned for you! ( Use the improved site Search feature to find up-to-date, clear information about: Negotiations and agreements. Programs and benefits. Physician compensation. Continuing medical education (including your CME statement). AMA leaders (e.g., targeted information for RF delegates and board members). Learn how we advocate for Patients First through regular news updates and publications such as the President s Letter, Alberta Doctors Digest, MD Scope and Section News. We ve added some great new features to the AMA website. Here are our 10 favorites: Searchable Online Billing Advice Log in to use this feature to navigate through complex fee codes. Do the paperwork Find all the forms you need to apply for our benefits and services in one place. My AMA page Your home on the new website log in to see this page especially for members. Customize with your own list of Favorites. Favorites list After you log in to the site, you will see a gold Favorites bar at the bottom of each web page. Simply click to add the web page to your My AMA page for easy access to the pages you visit most often. News and Events You will see a current list of events and featured news items right on the AMA homepage every time you visit. Subscribe to an RSS feed to get the latest news from your professional association. Publications We ve given all of our publications a fresh, new look. Visit Alberta Doctors Digest to choose either a print or podcast version of the latest issue. Resident physicians This brand new section is tailored to your needs and includes details on your AMA services and benefits and practical information on the transition to practice. Medical students Access targeted information on AMA services and benefits for you and learn more about what it will mean to be a practicing physician in Alberta. Patients First for over 100 years Read the stories of pioneering Alberta doctors. Member engagement pages New We are the AMA pages detail how the AMA supports all aspects of your professional life and how you can participate in your association. Contact: Kathy Garnsworthy RuthAnn Raycroft AMA Public Affairs CMA website (cma.ca) You ll save time, energy and money by finding up-to-date, authoritative and easy-to-use resources at cma.ca: Textbooks and medical journals Online access to over 100 textbooks and many journals through resources such as MD Consult and Access Medicine. CMA Librarian Expert, customized literature searches, online training and technical support. DynaMed Evidence summaries for more than 3,200 diseases and conditions. It is updated daily, and was identified as the most current point-of-care reference in a recent BMJ article. A mobile version of DynaMed is also available. BMJ Best Practice High-quality, evidence-based information that a physician can use for quick reference. Covers over 10,000 diagnoses, over 3,000 diagnostic tests, and more than 4,000 diagnostic and treatment guidelines. Drug Information LexiComp Online provides point-of-care drug information and drug interactions on over 2,800 drugs; includes Canadian brand names. InfoPOEMs The best clinical evidence from more than 1,200 studies and approximately 100 monthly journals delivered to your inbox daily. CMA InfoBase Comprehensive collection of evidence-based Canadian clinical practice guidelines, patient guides and physician summaries. Diagnostic calculators From MedCalc 3000 and Essential Evidence Plus. Practice Website Available through mydoctor.ca, this service allows you to create your own personalized and informative website in less than an hour. An@tomy.tv Detailed 3-D models of human anatomy, including interactive zoom, rotation, angle, interactive layers, MRI, clinical slides and videos. Cardiology CLIPS Weekly summaries of the latest evidence from top medical journals. Conference Updates Online real-time highlights of the best new research presented at major clinical conferences in North America and Europe. Contact: CMA Member Service Centre Scan to find out additional features of our new website, or visit 32 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

20 communications Other Communication Links AMA publications President s Letter and other special publications communicate urgent or significant developments. Alberta Doctors Digest (ADD) magazine features in-depth articles on issues that affect physicians, and on AMA programs and services from political and economic viewpoints. ADD welcomes letters to the editor. AMA members may place classified and display ads at special rates. MD Scope, the AMA s electronic newsletter, highlights timely and concise updates of news and events that affect Alberta physicians. Billing Corner provides advice from the AMA on billing issues and explanations of recent billing changes. Section News updates AMA members and physician specialties about sections challenges, objectives and activities. AMA educational and professional publications, pamphlets and reports are also available. Look for them on the AMA website. Contact: Shannon E. Rupnarain AMA Public Affairs Jung-Suk Ryu Senior Communications Consultant Public Affairs AMA updates The AMA communicates with its members on a timely basis through updates, saving considerable time and resources. users are the first to receive AMA news and updates. Members are encouraged to provide their addresses to the AMA to facilitate timely, cost-effective communication. Contact: Jennifer A. McCombe AMA Membership and Benefits CMA publications The CMA publishes a range of scientific and professional articles, books and supplements for Canadian physicians and other medical professionals. Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) Keep up to date on issues of importance and interest to you with the Canadian Medical Association Journal, Canada s leading health journal for physicians. CMA Bulletin is a bilingual insert that appears at the back of every issue of CMAJ. It keeps members current on major CMA activities such as its advocacy efforts on Parliament Hill, public health initiatives and work with its divisions and affiliated societies. Current and past issues are available online at cma.ca. Specialty medical journals enable you to stay current on the latest in your specialty. Articles provide information to help physicians in their daily practice, lifelong learning and career development. Most are available online at cma.ca. MD Lounge provides information and advice to help strengthen the relationship between general practitioners/family physicians and specialists. It s distributed four times a year with the CMAJ. Future Practice is an online publication designed to help inform physicians about the growing world of health information technology in Canada. New in Practice Guide is an annual guide that has everything residents need to know before entering active practice like billing, practice management, remuneration models, malpractice insurance, licensing and more. E-newsletters are clinical and information newsletters sent directly to your inbox. Contact: CMA Member Service Centre Stay connected with CMA The Stay Connected web page provides a one-stop shop for members wanting to become engaged and to learn results of CMA member surveys. CMA e-panel To ensure your voice is heard when CMA is setting policy join the CMA s Member e-panel. Visit cma.ca/epanel. Member Outreach Program Connects your community to the CMA. CMA leadership is pleased to address your group of 20+ physicians to answer questions, exchange ideas and garner insights into the CMA s agenda and priorities. yourvoice@cma.ca. Contact: cma.ca/stayconnected 34 ama online: cma online: cma.ca AMA and CMA and telephone directories pages

21 directory Alberta Medical Association directory Senior Management Team Executive Office Michael A. Gormley, Executive Director Cameron N. Plitt, Chief Financial Officer Corporate Affairs Victor A. Taylor, Assistant Executive Director Health Economics James A. Huston, Assistant Executive Director Verlin R. Gwin, Senior Advisor, Policy and Negotiations Professional Affairs William S. Hnydyk, MD, Assistant Executive Director Lyle B. Mittelsteadt, MD, Senior Medical Advisor Public Affairs Ronald A. Kustra, Assistant Executive Director Address Changes Jennifer A. McCombe ADIUM Insurance Services Inc. Information and Claims (see back cover) , ext. 692 Alberta Medical Foundation Mavis A. Stoyko Alberta Perinatal Health Program William S. Hnydyk, MD Alternate Relationship Plans Ryan J. Murray ARP Program Management Office AMA Physician Locum Services Barry A. Brayshaw Teresa Simpatico-Fadi (Rural) Lil E. Dickau (Specialist) Consuelo Van Doorn (Payments) Janet F. Cooper (Billing and Training) Amy M. Waldroff (Billing and Training) Annual General Meeting Charlene G. Daniel Billing Advice Insured Services Marilyn L. Kroon D Arcy A. Shade Marisa Q. Bonuccelli Billing Seminars Georgina H. Welch Uninsured Services D Arcy A. Shade darcy.shade@albertadoctors.org Board of Directors Christine A. Fleck christine.fleck@albertadoctors.org Continuing Medical Education (CME) Deanna J. Longmuir deanna.longmuir@albertadoctors.org Government Relations Ronald A. Kustra ronald.kustra@albertadoctors.org Shannon E. Rupnarain shannon.rupnarain@albertadoctors.org Health Advocacy Ronald A. Kustra ronald.kustra@albertadoctors.org Shannon E. Rupnarain shannon.rupnarain@albertadoctors.org Health Information and Privacy Shannon E. Rupnarain shannon.rupnarain@albertadoctors.org Health Issues Council Janet E. Boyer janet.boyer@albertadoctors.org Medical Liability Reimbursement (MLR) Deanna J. Longmuir deanna.longmuir@albertadoctors.org Membership Services Kirsten M. Sieben kirsten.sieben@albertadoctors.org Negotiations Verlin R. Gwin verlin.gwin@albertadoctors.org Nominating Committee Ava L. Butterworth ava.butterworth@albertadoctors.org Other Negotiations Ryan J. Murray ryan.murray@albertadoctors.org Parental Leave Program Shannon H. Neuman shannon.neuman@albertadoctors.org Physician and Family Support Program (PFSP) Information pfsp@albertadoctors.org Confidential Assistance (24/7) (1.877.SOS.4MDS) Physician Office System Program (POSP) Information posp@posp.ca Physician On-Call Programs (POCP) Ryan J. Murray ryan.murray@albertadoctors.org Physician Compensation Services James A. Huston jim.huston@albertadoctors.org Practice Management Program (PMP) Linda A. Ertman linda.ertman@albertadoctors.org or pmp@albertadoctors.org Primary Care Initiative (PCI) Program Lee L. Hall lee.hall@albertapci.ca

22 directory Public Image Shannon E. Rupnarain Publications Alberta Doctors Digest Shannon E. Rupnarain MD Scope RuthAnn Raycroft Advertising Daphne C. Andrychuk Representative Forum Charlene G. Daniel Residents Jennifer A. McCombe Retention Benefit Shannon H. Neuman Sections Agnes E. McIntyre Amanda G. Lacombe Schedule of Medical Benefits (SOMB) Marisa Q. Bonuccelli Southern Alberta Office Calgary Students Jennifer A. McCombe Toward Optimized Practice (TOP) Program Information (fax) Website Kathy Garnsworthy canadian medical association directory To inquire about CMA products and services, including those offered by MD Physician Services, contact the CMA Member Service Centre, Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Alberta time), at or cmamsc@cma.ca. CMA Physician Health Services CMA MD-MP Contact Program grassroots@cma.ca CMA Conference and Travel Management , www. cma.ca/gc Ext CMA Leadership and Professional Development , Ext leadership@cma.ca MD Physician Services see back cover Practice Hotline practice.hotline@cma.ca AMA-ENDORSED SERVICE PROVIDERs Mardon Group Insurance TD Insurance Meloche Monnex CORPORATE RATE PROGRAMS Contact the CMA Member Service Centre about member discounts cmamsc@cma.ca 38 39

23 1867 Alta Vista Dr OTTAWA ON K1G 5W8 TEL TF FAX cma.ca CMA Alberta House Ave NW EDMONTON AB T5N 3Z1 TEL TF FAX Southern Alberta Office Ave SW Calgary AB T2R 0E4 TEL TF FAX MD Client Services/ MD TradeCentre md.cma.ca CALGARY TEL TF FAX EDMONTON TEL TF FAX LETHBRIDGE TEL TF FAX Ave NW EDMONTON AB T5N 3Z1 TEL TF , ext. 692 FAX TF FAX How to reach us Scan to find our contact information online, or visit