2002

Introduction 

There are, I believe, some erroneous assertions and important omissions in Dr Barry Rich’s article “Male contraception and no-scalpel vasectomy” (BCMJ 2001;43(10):560).

Dr Krisman laments the end of the era of vaginal delivery of babies presenting by the breech.[1] His feelings are understandable, for few skills in the obstetrical armamentarium can equal those involved in the conduct of a breech birth and there is enormous satisfaction when it has been successfully accomplished.

…[I]t is most distressing to see an international drug manufacturer taking out half-page ads in the National Post (page SP8, 15 December 2001) to shill Pfizer’s cholesterol-lowering drug with the spiel “Which would you rather have, a cholesterol test or a final exam?” [autopsy?] with a picture of a toe-tagged stiff on a gurney…

I believe that cholesterol tests a few years ago were costing the BC Medical Plan some $4 million annually with very little health benefit to our population.

Regarding BCMJ 2001;43(10):551, the College of Physicians & Surgeons developed the Committee on Office Medical Practice Assessment under its mandate to “establish, monitor, and enforce standards of practice to enhance the quality of practice…amongst members.” This program was developed with an educational focus, not a disciplinary focus. All findings of the Committee are confidential and not available to the disciplinary side of the College function.