CMA Updates Code of Ethics
The CMA’s revised Code of Ethics and Professionalism now spells out how physicians are expected to address racism and discrimination, especially anti-Indigenous racism, in patient care and in relationship with their colleagues.
What has changed: Cultural safety, anti-racism and respect for Indigenous world views are now an important part of the profession’s ethical framework.
Timeline: Released in September after an extensive consultation, the update strengthens standards for how doctors provide care. It was two years in the making, with input from more than 50 groups and organizations. CMA committed to the update in its Reconciliation Action Plan, following its 2024 apology delivered by then-president Dr. Joss Reimer.
What’s new:
- Clear expectations for culturally safe, trauma-informed and equitable care. It clarifies that physicians have a responsibility not only to avoid harm, but to take reasonable steps to address racism, discrimination and inequities within their scope of influence.
- Improving health outcomes as physicians are asked to consider how care can better support groups that have been historically underserved or treated unfairly.
- Respect for Indigenous Knowledge and healing.
- Expectations for how physicians treat colleagues.
- Versions in six languages, including Anishinaabemowin, Southern (Heritage) Michif and Northern Michif-Cree.
Here in Manitoba: The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba’s Standard of Practice for Practicing Medicine to Eliminate Anti-Indigenous Racism took effect June 21, 2025, and outlines actions based on the Code of Ethics and Professionalism.
Doctors Manitoba has formed an Indigenous-Specific Racism Advisory Circle to help guide meaningful, accountable reconciliation actions. The circle will be co-led by Dr. Catherine Cook, whose deep experience as an advocate and advisor for Indigenous health is shaping this work.
Reminder: Physicians must complete one of the approved cultural safety and anti-Indigenous racism programs by Oct. 31, 2027. The cost can be claimed through Doctors Manitoba’s CPD funding.
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