Hope through uncertainty

It’s been a remarkable year as OMA president. As I reflect on where we started and how far we’ve come, I am inspired by our collective fortitude and amazed by the progress we’ve made in advancing science, policy and the path to recovery.

As a physiatrist, I believe that despite the challenges we face, there is always space for rehab and redemption in recovery.

The year 2022 started with uncertainty around the Omicron variant that strained our system in ways that were reminiscent of the early days of the pandemic: the ramping down of services, the threat of exposure and isolation, the challenge of accessing testing and personal protective equipment, and the redeployment of physicians.

While the situation seemed dire at times, there was always cause for optimism. It was truly inspiring to see the collective work we did to rehabilitate our patients, practices, health-care system and society to come out stronger on the other side.

The reopening of restaurants, gyms and theatres going back to 100 per cent capacity, doing away with vaccine passports and the restrictions that have become a necessary part of our daily routines brings a feeling of spring in winter and a cautious hope for a “new normal.”

Of course, it’s possible that a new variant could bring a spike in cases that could have us hunkering down again. But I am comforted by knowing that today, we are fundamentally in a better position than we were 12 months ago. We have become experienced in adjusting to changing public health measures, and our ability to co-operate and collaborate gives me confidence that when needed, we will collectively rise to the occasion once again.

The conversations I’ve had with many of you, right across the province, also give me hope. Through it all, you have stood tall and strong. Your commitment and dedication to your patients continues to inspire.

Throughout the pandemic, we have seen a redoubling of efforts by researchers and the scientific community to learn and advise on how best to respond. This reliance and focus on science and evidence continues to represent the best path forward, and I am proud of the crucial role that many of our physician leaders play in amplifying, advocating and educating the public.

As physicians, working in different specialties and communities, we bring important perspectives on what is going well and the issues that still need to be addressed. Honing and sharing this expertise will be extremely important as we move into the recovery stage, and this pandemic morphs into an endemic.

Undoubtedly, we are not out of the woods just yet, but I know that we are up to the task. As we work to rehabilitate our patients, practices and the system as a whole, I am grateful for the work of many in developing our road map, Prescription for Ontario, and confident in the leadership of OMA President-Elect Dr. Rose Zacharias in guiding us as we embark on this next phase together.