I am writing in response to the interview with BCMA President, Dr Margaret MacDiarmid, in September’s edition of the BCMJ (2006;48[7]:318-322).
I would like to commend Dr MacDiarmid for her open and thoughtful approach to her role as president, and I congratulate her particularly for her increased focus on our medical undergraduates at UBC.
The medical school expansion at UBC with new teaching sites and widespread recruitment is gaining local, national, and international attention. The BCMA’s expressed intention to assist medical students by enhancing their skills in conflict resolution and addressing issues related to the cost of medical education are welcome initiatives.
Practising physicians can make a difference to our students through formal teaching roles and in informal settings like those highlighted by our president. Positive role models in specialty practice and family practice are encouraged and are welcome in many settings.
Physicians wishing to learn more about the ways they can contribute to the development of our future physicians are welcome to contact the Undergraduate Office for Medical Education in the Faculty of Medicine at UBC. Mentorship opportunities exist and important opportunities to influence our future colleagues await.
Thank you Dr MacDiarmid for highlighting this interest in medical students and for working to build the relationship between our professional organization and the future members of our profession.
—Bruce Fleming, MD
Associate Dean, Student Affairs
UBC Faculty of Medicine