Registrar & CEO Announces Retirement
As you may recall, I announced my retirement from CPSM last December. Initially, a year’s notice seemed appropriate, but upon reflection, I realized a year was too long for me. For that reason, I have decided to retire as Registrar/CEO of CPSM, effective June 30, 2024.
With gratitude
Reflecting on my 22 years at CPSM, I realize what an honour it has been to be part of the self-regulation of medicine in Manitoba.
My journey at CPSM began as a Medical Consultant in the Complaints/Investigations department. Over the years, I progressed to the role of Assistant Registrar, overseeing Registration and Complaints, and in 2014, I assumed the position of Registrar/CEO. I became the 11th Registrar in CPSM’s history and the first IMG and female Registrar.
Many of you may not know that I continued my practice during my tenure as Registrar. Doing so kept me connected to the issues the profession encounters daily and helped inform decision-making. That is why, even during challenging times, your support reassured me. During the early days of COVID-19, the many calls and emails seeking guidance were a reminder of the significant impact a medical regulator has during unprecedented times. It was a testament to our shared commitment to act in the public interest.
I am fortunate to have met so many registrants throughout my time as Registrar. Thank you for reaching out by phone with your questions or responding to emails with your comments regarding consultations, new Standards of Practice, or professional guidance. I am grateful for your willingness to engage with CPSM and do your part in regulating the profession.
With pride
Some positive initiatives I am proud of include:
- Guiding the profession through the federal implementation of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD). It was and continues to be a contentious issue impacting many patients and registrants alike. I knew we had to develop a regulatory framework for the provision of MAiD in Manitoba to help steer how registrants could adapt to these changes.
- Identifying addiction issues and their connection to prescribing led me to hire an addictions specialist to examine prescribing practices in the province and identify solutions for promoting prescribing practices that are informed by current evidence and reflective of best practices. This led to the development of a Prescribing Practices Program that focuses on educational, collaborative, and supportive engagement with registrants resulting in improved prescribing practices.
- Establishing the CPSM Truth and Reconciliation Advisory Circle to guide the organization’s path toward Truth and Reconciliation. This includes acknowledging racism exists, delivering an apology to Indigenous Peoples for racism experienced in their medical care in Manitoba, and expressing a commitment to change. This work will carry on and I look forward to seeing where it takes the profession.
- Exploring a Restorative Justice approach to complaints and investigations which will lead to better resolutions of concerns brought forward for both patients and registrants.
- Forming the International Medical Graduates Working Group to support IMGs practicing medicine in Manitoba.
While I am proud of these initiatives, they are not about me. They are about addressing real issues. Expect to continue hearing more about these initiatives in the future.
With pleasure
I am pleased to announce that Dr. Ainslie Mihalchuk, Deputy Registrar, will assume the CPSM Registrar/CEO role effective July 1, 2024.
I have no doubt that Dr. Mihalchuk is ready for the challenge of leading CPSM into the future and I thank her for taking the role. With her skills and an enthusiastic team of staff, I expect to see further progress to the self-regulation of medicine. You will hear from Dr. Mihalchuk in the coming weeks and months.
With appreciation
I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with supportive, innovative, and motivated staff who are dedicated to our mandate to protect the public. Together, we accomplished significant growth and positive changes for both Manitobans and registrants.
Going forward, I am excited to dedicate more time to practicing medicine—my true passion.
I look forward to working with staff, Council, registrants, and many stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition.
Sincerely,
Dr. Anna Ziomek
Registrar and CEO