In this podcast episode, medical student co-hosts Odessa and Justina had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Kathleen Ross, President of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). 

Dr. Ross shared her journey to medicine and leadership, fuelled by a passion for advocacy and equitable patient care. As a mother of two and rural-based family medicine physician with a diverse scope of practice, she brings a unique perspective to her leadership role, with prioritization of national healthcare reform, physician wellness, and advocacy. During our conversation, Dr. Ross highlights the importance of systemically promoting women's health issues and offers advice for women physicians and medical learners aspiring to pursue leadership roles while simultaneously prioritizing balance, boundary setting, and personal passions. We discuss the importance of mentorship throughout medical training and pursuits of advocacy  She also poignantly emphasizes the need for cultural change to better support physician wellness and calls for broad healthcare revitalization via shifting political priorities towards preventative health initiatives. 

Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Ross advises her younger self to embrace resilience and self-assurance. She offers meaningful advice regarding remaining open to opportunity, embracing authenticity and normalizing seeking support, collaboration, and mutual empowerment. 

Her ‘big picture’ words encapsulate the spirit of perseverance and determination that defines her remarkable career in medicine and leadership.

FMWC 100 Celebration September 2024 in Ottawa: https://fmwc.ca/events/100th-anniversary/