The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) has overhauled its Code of Ethics and Professionalism, making it more explicit about physicians' responsibilities around racism, discrimination, and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. The update is part of the CMA's broader Reconciliation Action Plan, following a formal apology for the medical profession's role in harms to Indigenous communities — including forced sterilization, medical experimentation, and systemic neglect.

The revised code goes beyond the previous language of treating patients with "dignity and respect." It now specifically prohibits discrimination based on Indigenous background, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity — and requires physicians not to condone such behavior from others. It also addresses the modern challenge of medical misinformation, mandating that doctors clearly communicate when their views diverge from current accepted medical practice.

Key Takeaways:

• The updated code is used by most provincial Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons as part of licensing requirements, giving it real regulatory weight
• Physicians must now actively not condone discriminatory behavior — not just refrain from it themselves
• Doctors are required to disclose when their personal medical views conflict with current accepted standards (e.g., on vaccines or COVID)
• The update reflects the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's healthcare-related Calls to Action

Why it matters: With most Canadian provinces tying their licensing requirements to the CMA code, this update has real implications for medical practice. It signals a shift in how the profession is expected to engage with systemic racism and misinformation — two issues that have become central to modern healthcare delivery.