MSA PAH President's Newsletter
I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to Dr. Eleanor Clark for her hard work and dedication to the position of President of the Medical Staff. I know she was very reluctant to give this position up (little bit of Cheyne humour). At the last PAH AGM, a request for any volunteers to tackle this position was met with a profound silence. I volunteered to assist, but I was catapulted into a full-on position, which I will work hard to fulfill. I made it clear at the onset, that I will hold the position of President of the Medical Staff for a one year period. During this year, I request the full support of the Medical Staff to work towards a succession plan - where positions are filled on a mandatory basis. What I would like to propose at the next Medical Staff meeting is a motion to ensure positions are filled by individuals whom are currently not sitting in any administrative capacity: details to follow.
Fraser Health Medical Staff Bylaws indicate that we are obligated to have two meetings and an AGM in any calendar year, at which time we have an election process. Currently, we have four meetings each year, and I propose we reduce the number to three meetings. There will be updated newsletters by the president/executives to keep the staff informed of all issues relevant to Peace Arch Hospital.
Our treasurers, Dr. Jerry Hendry and Dr. Jane Wu, along with the Physician Engagement Team are working on establishing a PAH website. Currently Abbotsford has one in place. The website will keep us better connected to the issues, both in our hospital and community.
If you have any creative ideas as to formatting/design, please contact Dr. Wu. This will also be a platform for educational events, social events, engagement initiatives, MSA payment options, links to FH By-laws/Rules, and engagement funding.
On a different note, the Department heads, Doctors of BC, and the PAH Foundation need to provide reports, which must be distributed via e-mail prior to the MSA meetings: all of which can be archived on our website. At our AGM at Christmas, there were less than 50% of reports and yearly summaries submitted. I will ask Michael Scott to ensure that all reports are submitted prior to each meeting.
Another item which I think needs to be considered is the concept of a kudos award, where we acknowledge individual(s) who have: excelled in an area, shown outstanding compassion, demonstrated humanitarian acts, exhibited generosity... I know you are out there, so please come forward to me, or any of our colleagues, with names of medical staff who you feel are worthy and deserving.
Lastly, our beloved colleague, Dr. Alan Pretty, passed away last year.
I propose a motion to request PAH and/or the Foundation to name the new Doctor's Lounge in his honour.
The next Medical Staff Meeting will be March 25th, so please make an effort to attend. See you then!