CPA 2017 In Review: Psychiatry and Legislation
Dr. Marlon Danilewitz

The landscape of psychiatry in Canada is ever evolving. This past year saw a number of landmark legislative decisions that have had prominent impact on the practice of mental health and addictions in Canada. That being the case, it was particularly appropriate that the CPA annual conference 2017 was held in Ottawa. A number of sessions including a dynamic plenary session convened on the recent Bill C-14 and legalization of physician assisted suicide. While the current legislation has already impacted psychiatrists, many of whom have begun to play a role as assisting with capacity assessments, the potential for physician assisted suicide to be extended to individuals suffering from psychiatric illnesses was at the forefront of people’s attention. Similarly, the government’s decision to move forward with legalization of marijuana captured significant attention at this year’s conference.

While the mood was effervescent at this year’s resident social, conversations were alive with excitement on these contentious issues. Resident participation at the CPA continues to be strong with representation from coast to coast, with many residents presenting posters and oral presentations at the conference.