As Canada celebrates National Physicians’ Day, Doctors of BC proudly commemorates 125 years of unwavering advocacy and leadership on behalf of doctors in British Columbia. Since its founding in 1900, the association has served as the unified voice of thousands of BC physicians—championing the rights, well-being, and the influence of physicians who take care of millions of patients across the province.
“For 125 years, Doctors of BC has supported BC’s physicians—helping amplify their voices, advancing their interests, and driving meaningful change in health care,” said Dr Charlene Lui, President of Doctors of BC. “On National Physicians’ Day, we honour the incredible contributions of doctors and renew our commitment to supporting them every step of the way.”
Throughout its storied history, the association has led pivotal initiatives to protect physician health and safety and improve workplace violence prevention, advocate for increased physician levels in a time of shortages, and negotiate appropriate compensation levels via the Physician Master Agreement.
Recognizing the growing strain on today’s physician workforce, the association continues to push for reduced administrative burdens, allowing physicians to focus on patient care rather than paperwork. It also continues to advocate on other important issues impacting physicians’ working conditions and patient care, such as the current emergency department crisis and specialist wait times.
Amid mounting challenges—from pandemics to health system pressures—the association is also leading efforts to elevate the physician voice in health care policy and decision-making. By empowering physicians to shape the future of health care, the association ensures that the profession’s insight, expertise, and compassion are at the centre of important conversations on patient care and system reform.
As the association marks this milestone year, it invites all BC doctors, stakeholders, and community members to join in reflecting on the past and building a healthier, more equitable and racially inclusive future for the profession and the patients they serve.
As a sign of our gratitude, Doctors of BC has created a 125th anniversary flag for National Physicians’ Day, which will proudly fly next to City Hall in Vancouver, and in other areas of the city, for the month of May. The flag marks this celebration and raises public awareness about the legacy doctors have created in this province.
More information on Doctors of BC can be found on the About Us page on our website.
