(1/6) Long thread alert regarding UCP/physician conflict:
Recently, I had a complex patient come in to see me. He asked if I was a real doctor or a medical student, and told me I looked young. I assured him that I was a "real" doctor. Then, he remarked that it must be easy

(2/6) to get into medical school these days. I didn't think twice as I shrugged off his comment and then spent over an hour sitting with him sorting through 5+ medical issues he had. I did this because it's my job to help people, not to fix their perceptions of me.

(3/6) So why does @shandro respond to criticism by losing his temper, yelling at docs, & refusing to work with us? Isn't it his job to ensure that AB health care is the best it can be? How can you deliver effective policies by tearing up contracts & refusing to consult w experts?

(4/6) And why are UCP staff members name-calling physicians who advocate for this and smearing them on a daily basis, when all we want is to do our jobs and ensure quality care for Albertans -- our patients. Shouldn't this be a shared goal?

(5/6) The disrespect I have seen from the likes of @tarajago, @SteveBuick2, @MattWolfAB, and other UCP members over the last few months has been shocking and disheartening, and it's only been getting worse.

(6/6) Let's all do our jobs. Let's work together to continue to provide excellent health care to Albertans. Rescind Bill 21 and bring back stability to health care. Either engage in meaningful negotiations or enter independent third-party arbitration. #ABdocs4patients #KillBill21