May

I want to thank the BCMA most sincerely for the time they have given to improving the relationship between clinical faculty and the Faculty of Medicine. A key factor in the process is the letter of intent (LOI) which, although undated and with limited circulation (if any) to BCMA members at the time it was written, is an important document. It confirms the BCMA’s pledge to support its members who are now, or may in the fu­ture become, clinical faculty teachers/mentors in their quest for a just settlement with the Faculty of Medicine.

I was very happy to read the article introducing Dr Janusz Korczak to the readers of your journal [Dr Janusz Korczak and his legacy, BCMJ 2013;55:108-110]. It is very satisfying to see an interest in the life and legacy of Dr Korczak among the youngest generation of physicians and medical students. Dr Korczak, the great humanitarian, advocate of children’s rights, and pediatrician, has not ceased to inspire people who become acquainted with his work and philosophy. 

I read Drs Mazowita and Kozak’s article “First do no harm: Reflections on the application of consensus guidelines for diabetes and other chronic conditions in residential care” [BCMJ 2013;55:80-84] with great interest, and I strongly agree with their message that guidelines must be applied in the frail elderly in a more mindful fashion. 

Thank you for your letter; clearly you are passionate about medicine and about editorial independence, as are we. Editorials are the opinion of the writer, which is why they are signed with the writer’s initials. The Journal is divided into three sections, as you can see on the contents page: articles, opinions, and departments.

The argument was for a “hybrid public-private health system embracing competition, choice, and accountability,” not the “privatization of medical care.” My statement that “there are no large private hospitals in Canada, and the potential massive revenue from participation in this market would be available to public hospitals that presently close operating rooms in the afternoon and on weekends,” reinforces that point.
—BD