Ontario Medical Students Association (OMSA) Updates
OMSA First Year Handbook
Published: May 3, 2021
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The first year handbook is a resource compiled by the Ontario Medical Student Association that aims to provide incoming medical students with tips and tricks on navigating medical school. We are looking for responses from current medical students for advice that they would give to their first year counterparts. This is especially important with the changes from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Please share your words of wisdom with the link! |
Art of Medicine Award
Published: April 10, 2021
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OMSA's Art of Medicine Award 2021 has the theme of "Lessons From 2020". Many incredible submissions were accepted in the form of dance, music, visual art, and written entries. The top 6 pieces based on internal OMSA Council vote are now proceeding to public vote. The top 2 pieces after public vote will become the winners, and the artists will receive $250 as reward. The deadline for the vote is Sunday, April 18th at midnight and every Ontario Medical Student gets 2 votes! Please send any questions or concerns to Rae at finance@omsa.ca.
Please see the incredible pieces here and place your vote before the 18th! |
OMSA Conference Grants
Published: May 29, 2020
NORM Committee FB and Twitter Pages
Published: May 29, 2020
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The Northern Ontario and Rural Medicine (NORM) Committee at the Ontario Medical Students Association is pleased to announce the launch of Facebook and Twitter pages. These platforms aim to provide information on opportunities and resources for medical students interested in rural and Northern medicine in Ontario. They have also launched a Facebook group dedicated to information sharing amongst medical students regarding rural placements and experiences, as well as homestays. We hope these will help to minimize barriers to rural placements in the future. Please follow their pages to learn more about rural experiences and the work of their committee!
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Social Media |
OMSA Stethoscope Sale
Published: December 15, 2020
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Every year, OMSA partners with 3M Littmann and Surgo to provide Littmann Cardiology IV and Master Cardiology Stethoscopes to OMSA members at a discounted price. All that you need to access these deals is the OMSA promo code (that should've been provided to you by your VP External). Below are some of the highlights from the partnership:
What You Will Receive from Surgo: - Free Laser Engraving - Lowest Price - Part of the Proceeds support the OMSA - Free Freight on Orders over $75 What You Will Receive from Littmann: - Free Spare Parts Kit - Free Name Tag - Free Learning App Access Please send any questions to finance@omsa.ca. |
Canadian Federation of Medical Students (CFMS) Updates
CFMS Safe Spaces
Published: May 3, 2021
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Join medical students from across the country in a moderated conversation about how medical students cope with a chronic medical condition or disability (mental or physical) causing some impairment in medical training. This peer support session is confidential; learners can participate anonymously or choose to identify themselves. Part of the CFMS Safe Spaces initiative, hosted in collaboration with the Canadian Association of Physicians with Disabilities.
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CFMS Annual Review
Published: May 3, 2021
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CFMS is proud to announce the publication of 2021 Annual Review! You can now access the digital copy of this publication through the link. The CFMS Annual Review is a publication that includes summaries of CFMS projects and activities of the past year, as well as contributions of stories, poetry, art and photography from the general membership. It is distributed to over 8,000 medical students across the country, to the Deans of Canadian medical schools and to all the major medical organizations throughout Canada. Copies are also sent to all Provincial Ministers of Health, to Provincial Medical Associations as well as to over 100 Members of Parliament.
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CFMS EDI Survey
Published: May 3, 2021
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CFMS Board of Directors is asking for your suggestions! Have you ever gone through an equity, diversity, and inclusivity training that you have found extremely helpful? Do you have any suggestions for comprehensive anti-racism and cultural safety training? We would love to hear about it! The Board of Directors of the Canadian Federation of Medical Students (CFMS) is looking for your input to ensure that your representatives at CFMS are comprehensively trained and equipped to advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusivity and combat racism. Share your suggestions for training options with us by completing the form.
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CanadaQBank Renewed
Published: April 10, 2021
CanadaQBank has been renewed, just in time for the MCCQE! Check out the CFMS discounts page for 20% off!
CFMS Discounts
Published: February 8, 2021
One of our most popular partners, Osmosis, is back with new pricing plans and a fresh new discount! Log into your CFMS account to access the exclusive 2021 offer link for 40% off! Visual learners will love the images and interactive videos Osmosis offers on tons of medical topics!
UWorld is back with an exclusive discount for CFMS members! Save up to $100 on UWorld Step 1 and Step 2 exam prep materials! Starting February 12, 2021, visit the CFMS website for our exclusive sign up link.
UWorld is back with an exclusive discount for CFMS members! Save up to $100 on UWorld Step 1 and Step 2 exam prep materials! Starting February 12, 2021, visit the CFMS website for our exclusive sign up link.
CFMS Connection Podcast - Episode #3 CaRMS in COVID Times
Published: November 18, 2020
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Want to learn more about the changes to the R1 CARMS Match & cancelation of visiting electives for students this academic year? Tune in to episode 3 of The CFMS Connection where past CFMS President Victor Do outlines these changes, what it means for students, and tips on being successful in this new format
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CFMS Life as a Doctor-To-Be - Episode #1
Published: November 18, 2020
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The Life as a Doctor to Be podcast (LDTB), a CFMS Podcasts’ series, is excited to be releasing its introductory episode! The goal of this series is to help generate raw and meaningful discussions surrounding the difficult nature of medical training and of medical culture. Through this, it hopes to counter the loneliness that we all sometimes feel when struggling. Tune in to this introductory episode to listen to the hosts introduce the podcast and share their personal backgrounds before diving into the podcast’s subject matter
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CFMS Connection Podcast - Episode #1 Navigating the CaRMS Application
Published: October 23, 2020
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CFMS is excited to announce the release of the CFMS Podcasts! It is a collection of three separate series - Research in Medicine, Life as a Doctor to be and the CFMS Connection podcast series. The Research in Medicine series showcases the exceptional clinician-scientists in our schools so that medical students may gain more insight into how research can be incorporated into their future careers. The Life as a Doctor to Be series aims at promoting wellness through shedding light on difficulties that medical students may encounter over the course of their training. The CFMS Connection series features interviews of leaders in various fields related to professional development and medical education. Throughout the year, they will release a new episode from one of the three series every week. The first episode is on "Navigating the CARMS Application." Rishi Sharma, former CFMS Director of Education, will unravel the mystery that is The R1 Match and share with us some of his wisdom that helped him attain his preferred specialty
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Pan-Canadian Medical Student Perspectives on Pharmacare in Canada Position Paper
Published: August 25, 2020
CFMS Statement on their Commitment to Action on Anti-Black Racism
Published: June 23, 2020
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Check out CFMS's statement here on their commitment to action on anti-Black racism.
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CFMS Partnership with Lecturio
Published: May 7, 2020
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Lecturio is an easy to use educational resource for medical students. It contains video lectures on high yield material, 3D anatomy models, online quizzes, questions banks, and more. You can get a 14 day free trial. After the trial, you can subscribe with a 50% discount. Click on the link for more info.
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Other Updates
Renters Insurance: Myths and Facts
Published: April 10, 2021
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Many tenants aren’t aware of the importance of home insurance. In fact, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, about half of all tenants don’t have insurance. Contents insurance for tenants isn’t imposed by Canadian law, but your landlord could require it on your lease. Here are some myths and facts about tenant insurance and some reasons why it’s a good idea to get it.
Myth: Tenant insurance is too expensive. Fact: In general, the average price of tenant insurance is between $15 and $30 a month. Here are some tips to save on tenant insurance:
Myth: Your landlord has insurance that will cover you. Fact: Your landlord’s insurance covers damage to the building. It doesn’t cover your personal belongings or your liability. Myth: Everything in your home will be covered by tenant insurance. Fact: You may need additional coverage for expensive artwork, fine jewellery and other items. Here are some examples of what is covered by tenant insurance:You may need additional coverage for expensive artwork, fine jewellery and other items. Here are some examples of what is covered by tenant insurance:
Getting tenant insurance is generally a smart decision given the small premium and the extensive coverage. We recommend starting by making an inventory of all your possessions and figuring out how much it would cost to replace them in the event of loss or damage. This will help you decide if tenant insurance is right for you. OMA Student Members have access to OMA’s preferred home insurance provider, The Personal, to receive exclusive rates, personalized service and coverage for your house, condominium, or personal belongings. Get a quote today (see top link). |
Got questions? Contact your OMA Insurance Education & Engagement Specialist:
Sarah Tufts
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OMA Advantage Perks
Published: April 10, 2021
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Campbell Moving Systems Inc.
Campbell Moving remains committed to their moving customers during this challenging time as they closely monitor COVID-19 updates. Campbell Moving understands that everyone’s priority is their personal safety and that of their families and so have implemented the necessary precautions. (Find out more at the top link.) VIA Rail For many of our members, travel is a necessity. VIA Rail is committed to ensuring you travel safely. OMA members are entitled to a 15% discount on the best available fare. This discount applies to the OMA member and up to three 3 additional passengers. Escape Fares, Travel Passes and Bizpak are excluded. (Find out more at the bottom link.) |
MCC: PE-Lite for the MCCQE
Published: March 30, 2021
Travel Protection for Students
Published: March 30, 2021
Travel is not recommended right now, however, if you do have to take a trip outside of Ontario or Canada during the pandemic, OMA Travel Insurance can help protect you from unexpected emergency medical expenses and includes COVID-19-related expenses. There are plans that offer up to $5 million for expenses not related to COVID-19 and up to $1,000,000 for COVID-19-related expenses. Plus, trip interruption coverage is included. Check out the numerous student options:
Students Studying in Canada Outside their Home Province
If you’re studying in Canada, but outside your home province or territory, you won’t have the full protection of your government health insurance plan. If you fall sick or get injured, you may be faced with expensive medical costs. While you're away, this plan can cover many costs for both emergency and non-emergency medical expenses – up to $2 million.
International Students Studying in Canada
If you're coming from outside Canada to study here, it's important to protect yourself with medical insurance. While many medical costs are covered for Canadians, unfortunately that protection is not extended to international students. While you're in Canada, this plan can cover many costs for both emergency and non-emergency medical expenses – up to $2 million.
Canadian Students Studying Outside Canada
Are you preparing to study abroad? If you fall sick or get injured outside Canada, your government health insurance plan provides limited coverage, putting you on the hook for expensive medical costs. While you're away, this plan can cover many costs for both emergency and non-emergency medical expenses – up to $2 million.
Students Studying in Canada Outside their Home Province
If you’re studying in Canada, but outside your home province or territory, you won’t have the full protection of your government health insurance plan. If you fall sick or get injured, you may be faced with expensive medical costs. While you're away, this plan can cover many costs for both emergency and non-emergency medical expenses – up to $2 million.
International Students Studying in Canada
If you're coming from outside Canada to study here, it's important to protect yourself with medical insurance. While many medical costs are covered for Canadians, unfortunately that protection is not extended to international students. While you're in Canada, this plan can cover many costs for both emergency and non-emergency medical expenses – up to $2 million.
Canadian Students Studying Outside Canada
Are you preparing to study abroad? If you fall sick or get injured outside Canada, your government health insurance plan provides limited coverage, putting you on the hook for expensive medical costs. While you're away, this plan can cover many costs for both emergency and non-emergency medical expenses – up to $2 million.
OMA Advantages Perks
Published: February 8, 2021
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American Express Cobalt offer for OMA members:
Be it Uber, bus, train or any other public transportation – you can earn double the points per $1 spent (see the top link) Everyday savings with Memberperks: OMA members have access to over 3,000 discounts and offers on day-to-day items and services, available to both you and your entire household! (see the bottom link) |
Indigenous Skin Spectrum Summit
Published: February 8, 2021
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March 19 is National "Close the Gap Day" in Australia. The event was first organized in 2006. On this day, organizations come together to improve the health of Indigenous peoples. "Close the Gap Day" is an opportunity for organizations and communities to hold events and raise awareness of Indigenous health issues.
Day 1: Thursday, March 18, 2021 7:00-9:30 PM EST Day 2: Saturday, March 20, 2021 10:45AM-1:30PM EST Why Attend? 1) You will interact with and learn from worldwide thought leaders in skin science, through a LIVE Q&A session with faculty 2) You will learn about skin conditions that affect the Indigenous communities in Canada 3) You will network and exchange experiences with a peer group of specialists, family physicians, nurse practitioners, and community health experts 4)You will be provided with asynchronous learning opportunities Please visit the link to learn more about the day's program, the outstanding Canadian and international faculty, and to register. We are pleased to offer members of the Ontario Medical Students Association an exclusive discount. Use the discount code provided to you by your school's VP External to join us at the Summit for only $49+HST. Regular fee: $99+HST. |
Fast Facts about Winter Tires and OMA Auto Insurance Discounts
Published: December 15, 2020
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1. Winter tires should only be installed in sets of four. With just two winter tires, your vehicle’s handling is not fully optimized.
2. Winter tires contain silica, a compound that keeps tires flexible in cold temperatures. They also have a tread design that helps maintain a firm grip on snow and ice-packed roads, which helps improve handling, stability, control and cornering capabilities. All-season tires, on the other hand, can become hard and lose their elasticity in wintry weather, reducing traction and compromising your safety. 3. Winter tires help reduce braking distance on cold, wet, ice and snow-covered roads. Depending on your speed and the weather, the braking distance of winter tires can be up to 25 per cent shorter (or two vehicle lengths) compared to all-season tires. 4. Proper air pressure extends the tread life of your winter tires, improving safety and reducing fuel consumption. For every 5°C dip in the thermometer, your tire pressure decreases 1 pound per square inch which results in reduced handling and control of your vehicle. Check your tire pressure once a month when the tires are cold. 5. OMA’s preferred auto insurance, The Personal, policyholders can save up to 5 per cent on their auto insurance premium when four winter tires are installed. CAA has an easy rule of thumb for remembering when to make the switch from all-season tires to winter tires: when the temperature reaches 7°C or below put them on; when the temperature reaches 7°C or above, remove them. If you’re an OMA member, you're entitled to additional auto insurance discounts: • Multi-Vehicle Discount • Accident-Free Protection • $0 Deductible Option • Loyalty Savings • Hybrid Vehicle Discount • Student Rates • Multi-Line Discount For more information about OMA Home and Auto Insurance program, or to get an online quote, please visit The Personal Insurance website. Or contact The Personal directly at 1.877.277.7165 today. |
Airwayve Podcast
Published: December 15, 2020
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Anesthesia is a specialty that continues to remain obscure to numerous students at the undergraduate medical training level. The unfamiliarity of students with its practice is likely to only be exacerbated by the lack of clinical exposure in the context of COVID-19. Further, it is a specialty that is rooted in a robust understanding of the physiology and pharmacology that underpin its practice. While there are excellent textbooks that provide the information necessary to succeed on an anesthesia rotation, these resources are often dense, time-consuming to read, and often provide information that may be beyond the knowledge and comprehension level of new medical students and clerks. These resources also often do not describe the realities of the day-to-day practice of Anesthesia that are essential for career exploration and development.
To address these gaps, the Airwayve Podcast - a free, student-led anesthesia podcast for medical students- was founded and developed by Puru Panchal, Alexa Caldwell and Grace Martin of McMaster University. As a medical education tool, the podcast aims to make learning introductory anesthesia concepts accessible, entertaining and succinct. The podcast aims to teach new medical students and to prepare incoming clerks for their rotations by exploring common clinical encounters and interweaving fundamental teaching points on the relevant physiology and pharmacology. By providing preliminary exposure, information about anesthesiology as a specialty, and interviews with guest speakers, we also aim to facilitate early career exploration. In being a student-led initiative, the podcast ensures a level of discussion that is appropriate and relevant for undergraduate medical training. Through its address of the current gaps in exposure and introductory level educational materials, we hope that the podcast will be an effective tool for introductory learning. The podcast would not be possible without the generous editing contributions of Gwen Lovsted, Dr. Nicholas Timmerman, Dr. Jordan Albaulm and Dr. Sean Xia. Faculty support and oversight is provided by Dr. Daniel Cordovani. Episodes are released weekly/biweekly. |
CPSO eDialogue Publication
Published: October 21, 2020
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eDialogue is the official publication of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. The objective of this magazine is to provide clear policy direction and review pertinent legislative and disciplinary information, consult with the profession on issues of concern, and provide a forum for discussion and exchange of information and ideas. In this issue, they share a new feature piece on anti-Black racism, a draft policy for Professional Expectations in Medical Education, and information on tips and tricks for virtual care.
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Future of Admissions in Canada Think Tan (FACTT)
Published: August 25, 2020
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Learn more about how medical schools across Canada are working towards increasing diversity among medical students to better represent and serve the general public: FACTT Proposed Strategy for Enhancing Admissions
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AFMC Future of Medical Education: Consultation Report and Survey
Published: August 25, 2020
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Before the pandemic, AFMC gathered the perspectives of educational communities across Canada via polls and surveys on three projects: Future of Medical Education Project, Postgraduate Project, and CPD Project. For more information, please view the consultation report. AFMC would also like to hear from you, especially about what you consider to be the top priorities at this time during the pandemic. Complete their survey at the link.
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2021 R-1 Match Timeline
Published: August 10, 2020
Match Day will be on Apr. 20th, 2021. Other important dates include the following:
- Nov. 2nd, 2020: R1 Match application opens
- Feb. 8th, 2021: Application due date
- Mar. 8th - Mar. 28th, 2021: National interview period
- Apr. 20th, 2021: Match Day 1st iteration
- May 20th, 2021: Match Day 2nd iteration