Press release
FMSQ becomes a Major Partner
in the Grand défi Pierre Lavoie
Montreal, February 5, 2009 - The Fédération des médecins spécialistes du Québec (FMSQ) is happy to announce that it will be a major partner in the 2009 edition of the Grand défi Pierre Lavoie. The announcement was made today by FMSQ President, Dr. Gaétan Barrette, at the Montreal press conference to launch the event.
“As medical specialists, we wholeheartedly endorse the event’s objectives, particularly at a time when statistics on the health of our young people are increasingly alarming. For the first time in 50 years, the life expectancy of some of our young people is less than that of their elders, despite the astounding advances made in medicine, research and science” stated Dr. Barrette. “Promoting a healthy way of life and disease prevention should lie at the core of a national health policy. An immediate change is imperative if we do not want our health system to crumble under the combined effect of aging and illnesses caused by poor lifestyle”.
As its contribution, the FMSQ will promote the event to its 8,000 members to ensure that the greatest possible number of teams from the various medical specialties participates. Already, in addition to the FMSQ team itself, at least 15 other teams will be at the start line of the 1,000 km circuit. These will include orthopedists (three teams), general surgeons, cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons, geneticists, radiologists, hematologists/oncologists, emergency specialists, pediatricians, ophthalmologists, nephrologists, otorhinolaryngologists, cardiologists and plastic surgeons.
As Dr. Barrette said in conclusion, “We have a responsibility to take part in this collaborative effort, initiated by Pierre Lavoie, to prevent disease and raise awareness. That is why the FMSQ is taking part in this first event, which should prove highly successful and really help make a difference”.
The Fédération des médecins spécialistes du Québec numbers more than 8,000 members in Quebec, representing 35 medical specialties. It is the sole organization recognized by government with respect to negotiating medical specialists' collective agreements, and is also consulted on all aspects of the organization of medical care in Quebec.
