Canadian Medical Association

The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) is a national, voluntary association of physicians that advocates on behalf of its members and the public for access to high-quality health care. The CMA also provides leadership and guidance to physicians.

Formed in Quebec City in 1867, just three months after the birth of Canada, the CMA was created by 164 physicians who recognized the need for a national medical body. They selected Sir Charles Tupper, who would later serve as Canada's prime minister, as the first president.

Today the CMA has more than 80,000 members, and lobbies vigorously on behalf of both members and their patients on Parliament Hill during federal election campaigns and in the media.

The CMA aims 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.