Paula Cashin

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Candidate statement

Re-Election to CMPA Council

My name is Dr. Paula Cashin. I am a dual FRCPC certified specialist physician practicing in Ottawa. I have served on the CMPA Board of Directors since 2023.

Early in my career, I faced a prolonged and deeply challenging workplace conflict in which a hospital administrator falsely characterized me as a “disruptive” physician and pursued the removal of my hospital privileges. After a decade-long legal process, the matter was resolved with a complete apology and admission of wrongdoing by the health authority. An independent ombuds report confirmed that my treatment had been unjust and wrong.

That experience fundamentally shaped my understanding of vulnerability within our profession. I learned firsthand that a fair and objective complaint process cannot be assumed. I experienced how isolating and destabilizing it can be for physicians who find themselves facing complaints, investigations, or reputational harm. I also saw the impact of prolonged legal timelines and the absence of coordinated national supports for physicians navigating these challenging situations.

In response, I committed myself to strengthening physician advocacy and educating physicians on how to effectively navigate complaints and bylaw processes. I completed a Master of Laws (LLM) in dispute resolution and I have served on several national boards, including the CMPA and the Canadian Medical Association. On Council, I have worked to be a strong, principled voice for fairness, due process, and timely resolution.

If re-elected, my priorities will be:

• Advocating for faster and more transparent resolution pathways for physicians facing complaints
• Strengthening supports for members in conflict situations or facing false accusations from employers or health regions
• Promoting system-level improvements that reduce harm to physicians while maintaining public trust
• Ensuring CMPA continues to evolve in response to the complex realities of modern medical practice

Physicians and patients deserve a CMPA that is fair, timely, and just. You deserve a champion on council who will fight for you without asking you to sacrifice yourself in the process. I remain committed to serving members with integrity, experience and a deep understanding of the challenges many quietly ensure.

Thank you for considering my re-election to CMPA Council in Area 5 (Ontario) Division B. It would be an honour to continue to serve on Council.