I appreciate all the hard work done by the BCMA on behalf of all BC physicians, especially during these challenging times. What I don’t appreciate is the seeming unwillingness or inability of some physicians to recognize that medicine has an ever-changing face. Why did the editor MHG, in the opening lines of his recent editorial (BCMJ 2002;44[3]:115 [9]) recognize only male physicians, “gentlemen physicians of the BCMA,” as coming to our defence? Is Dr Heidi Oetter not a woman? Is she the only woman who has significantly been involved with negotiating with the government? How can such language not discourage the already few female physicians who do make great sacrifices, along with their male colleagues, to be politically active?

Encountering such language does nothing to foster greater participation of ALL physicians. Editors of the BCMJ are in a visible leadership position with resultant privileges and responsibilities. Greater mindfulness in being inclusive of all BC doctors will promote stronger cohesiveness in our team, which is good medicine for everybody.

—Lesley Horton, MD
Vancouver

Thank you for reminding us of this issue, which we take seriously and always try to observe. This was an editorial slip that we will try not to let happen again.—ED