Frequently Asked Questions
Who should become a VMDAS member?
All physicians, dentists and allied staff who work in the Vancouver Community of Care automatically become members of VMDAS.
What are the annual VMDAS membership dues?
$100 ($50 for salaried medical staff)
Is there an option to pay my Medical Staff dues online?
Yes, this website is capable of taking online dues payments. Click here for more information.
I was unable to attend the awards ceremony, where can I pick up my length of service pin and certificate?
All pins and certificates that are not given out at the awards ceremony are delivered to their respective departments for distribution to staff.
What is the Facility Engagement Initiative?
The Facility Engagement Initiative (also known as the physician engagement initiative) is a province-wide endeavour originally outlined in the 2014 Memorandum of Understanding between the BC Ministry of Health, Doctors of BC and six health authorities. The MOU was renewed in 2019. Designed to provide physicians, working in or affiliated with hospitals and acute care facilities, input on issues affecting them and their patients, this initiative also creates opportunities for physicians to work collaboratively with their health authority.
How is the Facilities Engagement Initiative funded?
Annual funding to support activities identified and prioritized by the VPSA and its members comes from the Specialist Services Committee, a partnership of Doctors of BC and the Ministry of Health. This initiative is a Canadian first to support and strengthen relationships between facility-based physicians and health authorities.
What is the Vancouver Physician Staff Association?
The Vancouver Physician Staff Association (VPSA) was established to lead the Facility Engagement Initiative and create an environment where physicians at VGH, UBC Hospital, GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre and affiliated community physicians feel supported, connected to their colleagues and inspired to come to work each day. More information on the VPSA governance structure is available here.
How do I become a member of the VPSA?
All physicians who are members of the Vancouver Medical, Dental and Allied Staff Association (VMDAS) are automatically members of VPSA.
How can I get involved with the VPSA?
Members are at the heart of our work. They serve on task groups and committees, help organize events, and speak at our presentations. If you would like to know more about opportunities to make a difference, please drop us a line.
How much money is available for my Small Steps, Big Idea?
The VPSA is currently offering funding for Small Steps, Big Idea projects. Selected projects receive between $1,000 and $5,000 in funding. Proposals should engage physicians and their nursing and allied health colleagues, improve patient care, develop better communication, and/or build relationships across specialties, departments and with community members. More information is available here.
How much money is available for Engagement Accelerator funding?
The VPSA Engagement Accelerator provides up to $20,000 in funding for physician-led projects that improve collaboration among facility-based physicians, across divisions and/or departments, or between facility-based and community physicians. Projects that engage other health professionals are encouraged. Find out more here.
How can I submit a proposal to get funding?
The process is simple. Download and complete the application form and submit it to projects@vpsa.ca. Small Steps, Big Idea proposals are reviewed as they are received and funding is awarded on an ongoing basis. Expect a response approximately six weeks following submission. Engagement Accelerator proposals are accepted each fall and decisions are made shortly thereafter.
How are decisions made regarding which projects get funded?
A working group reviews each proposal. Projects must create or enhance relationships between physician groups (division or department) within or between VGH, UBCH and GF Strong. Projects involving health authority management or nursing and allied health professionals will garner stronger support. Projects must also relate to the VPSA Facility Engagement Initiative’s priorities. Learn more here.