Advocacy is one of the
Canadian Dermatology Association’s key strategic pillars.
This year, we are continuing to:
- Disseminate and present the platform to key decision-makers seeking their support.
- Advance two of the platform’s five solutions:
- Deepen our understanding of how team-based care can be part of the solution to physician shortage.
- Develop a White Paper to clearly document the dermatology shortage and required increases to meet the needs of the population.
- Promote and emphasize the important role of dermatologists in the healthcare system.
Post the petition QR code in your waiting room so patients can join the call for change
Advocacy Platform “More Than Skin Deep”
The CDA’s advocacy platform is your guide to the key issues shaping dermatologic care and the policy priorities driving our efforts. Inside, you will find a thorough examination of these challenges, along with bold solutions designed to strengthen the specialty. This document outlines the actions we are taking to create meaningful change and serves as a roadmap for our advocacy work, ensuring that dermatology’s voice is heard—and makes a significant impact—where it matters most.
Advocate for the Specialty
Download Advocacy Social Media Images and Posts
Connecting with Elected Candidates
The Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) has developed materials to support Members’ outreach to elected federal election candidates. The CDA is calling on elected candidates to support the much-needed investments and action to address critical issues facing the dermatology profession.
This post election cycle presents an important opportunity to make strides in shaping policy to improve dermatological care and outcomes for Canadian patients directly.
Email Templates
Reach out to elected candidates with our pre-drafted email templates designed to spark meaningful dialogue.
Make your voice heard with a quick email:
Request a meeting to share your concerns:
Find Your Candidates
Identify the candidates running in your area by visiting the Elections Canada website. Simply enter your postal code to access a list of candidates in your riding. We encourage engaging with candidates from all parties to promote broad support for dermatologic care.
Outreach Tips & Strategies
Access helpful guidance on preparing for meetings with candidates, explore additional ways to get involved, and find key advocacy messages to share during your conversations.
Call to Action Handout
Share this concise resource with elected candidates for a clear overview of critical issues. It’s designed to help candidates better understand the CDA’s priorities and advocate for meaningful change in dermatologic care.
CDA in Action
- Strengthened connections among and with Provincial Dermatology Associations through
- a dedicated information-sharing site, and
- an annual outreach to share national updates and hear local perspectives on advocacy priorities.
- Provided members with resources to engage in election advocacy.
- Responded to misrepresentations of the specialty.
- Launched the Advocacy Corner column to reflect on key issues impacting the specialty.
- Partnered with
- Melanoma Canada’s Mole Mobile initiative to promote skin cancer awareness and highlight the importance of dermatologists in skin health, and
- Canadian Skin Patient Alliance to collaborate on patient stories to support advocacy efforts.
- Submitted recommendations for the Government of Canada’s Pre-Budget Consultation.
- Responded to Calls for Consultation from Health Canada and other Stakeholders on policy matters affecting the specialty.
- Collected dermatologist-specific workforce data through a National Dermatology Workforce Survey.
Upcoming activities
- Convening the 2nd Annual Dermatology Association Presidents Meeting in June
- Participating in Provincial Dermatology Association meetings throughout the year to stay informed on regional issues and share advocacy updates.
- Releasing a White Paper on dermatology shortages in mid-summer.
- Launching a national petition calling for more dermatologists, targeted investments, strategic funding, and improved access to care across Canada.
- Presenting key findings from the National Dermatology Workforce Survey in a members’ webinar.
- Publishing full survey data in late 2025.
Providing Life Changing Treatment
Across Canada, patients living with skin conditions and those who have faced a skin cancer diagnosis have experienced life-changing care thanks to the expertise of Canada’s certified dermatologists. Their stories highlight the vital role dermatologists play in diagnosing, treating, and improving lives. They also underscore the need for finding practical, long-term solutions that can ensure timely access to dermatologic care.
Jaida’s Fight
Battling Melanoma
At 27, Ontario-based Jaida’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with stage 1 melanoma. Incredibly, she might have overlooked the mole on her back if not for…
Stephanie’s Journey
Detecting Basal Cell Carcinoma & Melanoma Early
During the height of the pandemic, Stephanie began noticing a troubling mole but faced significant challenges getting a referral and an appointment to see a dermatologist.
Shahnawaz’s Experience
Facing the Stigma of Vitiligo
Diagnosed with vitiligo at the age of six, Shahnawaz has been living with the condition for over 18 years. Growing up in Kingston, Ontario, where accessing specialized dermatology was challenging…
Natalie’s Diagnoses
Navigating Chronic Skin Conditions
Diagnosed with vitiligo as a child, Natalie has faced a range of chronic skin conditions throughout her life. These experiences have shaped both her personal journey and her advocacy for people of colour living with skin conditions.
Make Your Voice Heard
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