July 2025
As we enter the 2025–26 membership year, the Board of Directors of the Ontario Association of Cardiologists (OAC) would like to express our sincere appreciation to all members. Your commitment and participation continue to shape the strength and impact of our Association.
Reflecting on 2024–25
Advocacy and Representation:
This year, the OAC led Cardiology’s fee proposal submissions for permanent changes that will take effect in April 2026, with a focus on strengthening support for core clinical work and modernizing the Schedule of Benefits. We also worked to ensure that our members were not adversely affected by proposals from other specialties.
Peer Learning and Events:
Our 2025 Clinical Practice and Financial Management Seminar held in April was a major success, offering high-impact sessions on billing, legal risk, and financial planning. We also hosted our third EQI program update webinar and welcomed Accreditation Canada to speak at our spring event.
Policy and Public Advocacy:
We issued a strong 2025 Ontario Budget submission focused on expanding access to cardiac care and reducing cost pressures in both hospital and community settings. While the government did not directly respond, our public statement helped reinforce the need for targeted investment.
Membership Growth and Recognition:
We welcomed three new Board members—Dr. Arsha Karbassi, Dr. Chi-Ming Chow, and Dr. Molly Thangaroopan—bringing new perspectives and energy to our leadership team. Ongoing engagement through webinars, consultations, and education continues to strengthen our collective voice.
Member Benefits and Savings:
The OAC continued to expand group pricing on key clinical supplies and products, helping members manage overhead while maintaining quality care. These savings support both hospital-affiliated and community-based cardiologists.
Looking Ahead to 2025–26
Fee Reform and OHIP Advocacy:
We will continue advancing Cardiology’s OHIP fee proposals through the PPC approval process, with implementation targeted for April 2026. In parallel, we will develop new fee proposals under the 2024 Physician Services Agreement for Years 2 and 3 funding allocations.
EQI Standards Implementation:
In 2025–26, we will support members in preparing for the application of the updated EQI program accreditation requirements, which take effect in 2026. Our efforts will include a dedicated fall webinar and ongoing collaboration with Accreditation Canada to ensure the program remains practical and clinically relevant.
Member Support and Peer Learning:
We will expand access to peer-to-peer learning, mentorship, and career development opportunities — especially for early and mid-career cardiologists. Our goal is to strengthen support across all career stages and practice settings.
Recruitment and Retention:
The OAC will place greater focus on the growing challenge of cardiologist recruitment, particularly in under-serviced regions. We will explore targeted ways to assist members and engage with system partners on potential solutions.
Expanded Member Services and Savings:
We aim to broaden access to preferred pricing programs and member services that help reduce overhead and support clinical operations. Your participation strengthens our ability to negotiate savings that benefit cardiologists province-wide.
Your Role in Our Future
Your support and engagement are vital to our collective success. We encourage you to participate actively in our events, contribute your expertise to our efforts, and share your ideas on how we can better serve you and our community.
In Closing
We are proud of what we have accomplished together and are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to supporting you in your professional journey and advancing the field of cardiology in Ontario.
Thank you for being an integral part of the OAC. We look forward to achieving even greater heights together in 2025-26.
Sincerely,
OAC Board of Directors