The primary role of the National Officer of Political Action (NOPA) is to lead the CFMS Day of Action, where medical students from across Canada come together to advocate for federal changes to national issues concerning health equity and justice. Responsibilities include leading the Topic Selection Committee to identify relevant issues and select a topic for the year, leading the Research Committee in literature reviews and community consultations to shape the advocacy around the CFMS Day of Action, meeting with parliamentarians to discuss the issues identified, as well as working with the Director of Government Affairs to engage the larger student body in this advocacy work and complete follow-up after meetings with government officials.
The National Officer of Health Policy leads the Committee on Health Policy and takes lead on the process for submitting, revising, and approving CFMS position papers and policy documents. They are a valuable part of the Government Affairs Portfolio and assists in helping track and implement recommendations provided within our approved guiding documents. Other responsibilities include updating the position paper and advocacy trackers to make this information available and accessible to the CFMS general membership.