Spring 2015 (Volume 25, Number 1)

Switched On

By Christine Charnock

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Member engagement is one of the key governance responsibilities of the CRA Board (see article); as part of our mission to promote excellence in arthritis care, education, and research, this Joint Count survey asked members about their involvement with the CRA, and what reasons impact or influence their involvement. Of the 400-plus rheumatologists in the CRA, nearly half (189) took the time to comment on this key issue.

A recent surge in the attractiveness of rheumatology practice finds 27% of respondents in their first five years of practice. On the other end of the scale, 22% of respondents have been in practice for more than 30 years. There is a prime opportunity for long-standing rheumatologists to serve as mentors to the new cohort of practitioners in our field.

Of our respondents, 40% report being currently involved with the CRA, either through Committee involvement, Board participation, or other CRA endeavours. The main reasons for member involvement were commitment to improving the quality of rheumatology care in Canada, interest in advocacy, networking and staying in touch with colleagues across the country, and a genuine interest in affecting decisions made about Canadian rheumatology. The CRA is truly pleased to see our mission reflected in your reasons for getting involved.

The 60% of respondents not currently involved with the CRA cite a variety of factors limiting their involvement: not enough time (51%) was the main reason reported, followed by lack of awareness of opportunities that exist (11%) or of how to get involved (7%), or disinterest in participation (5%). The CRA cannot do much to alleviate the time pressures experienced by our members, but we certainly have short-term or small tasks that would contribute greatly to the CRA’s value to you. We definitely wish to improve awareness of participation opportunities! Interested members should visit www.rheum.ca or contact info@rheum.ca for details on how to get involved.

Of the 26% of respondents who noted “other” reasons for not being involved with the CRA, retirement or trying to slow down were the most common reasons, along with prior involvement with the CRA. Again, the CRA encourages all members to get involved in any capacity they can; your commitment and leadership is what makes the CRA a powerful force in this country!

Christine Charnock
CEO, CRA
Newmarket, Ontario