Governance policies
Governance policies are those that affect how the OMA is governed by its members.
As part of the governance transformation, the OMA is conducting a detailed review of its constituency groups, including sections, districts, branch societies, medical interest groups, and fora. Any new governance policy material related to these groups will be uploaded as available.
Note: the creation of new MIGs is currently on hold until after the constituency governance review is complete.
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Ontario’s Not-for-Profit Corporations Act
Ontario’s Not-for-Profit Corporations Act, 2010 (ONCA) was proclaimed into force on Oct. 19, 2021. The legislation included a three-year transition period for not-for-profit corporations to review and amend their governing documents to comply with the new legislation.
In 2023 and 2024, the OMA undertook a review of its Letters Patent (now referred to as Articles of Incorporation under ONCA) and bylaws to identify amendments required to comply with ONCA, along with minor practical and housekeeping changes. On March 27, 2024, the Board approved proposed amendments to the OMA bylaws and Articles of Incorporation, which members approved at the Annual General Meeting on May 2, 2024.
The OMA’s governing documents have continued to evolve since the ONCA transition. At the 2026 Annual General Meeting, members approved further governance changes, including changes to the composition of the Board of Directors and the OMA’s election framework. The changes provide for a transition to an all-physician Board and require that candidates who meet the eligibility requirements set out in the OMA bylaws be presented to members for election.
The current OMA bylaws reflect the governance framework approved by OMA members.
OMA articles of incorporation
The most updated articles of incorporation as confirmed by members at the 2024 AGM.
Defines conflict of interest situations and the responsibility of board members.
Governance principles
The OMA has adopted a set of best practices to establish an effective governance structure.
Board code of conduct
Outlines expectations for directors in providing leadership in support of the OMA’s objectives and goals.
Board social media policy
Parameters for the OMA Board Directors in their use of social media.
Invited guests at board meetings
Guidelines for outside individuals who wish to observe proceedings or participate in discussion.
Board investigations and dispute resolution
Procedures for dealing with conflict and potential mediation or investigations.
In-camera session policy
This policy describes the requirements and procedures for in-camera sessions. It applies to meetings of the OMA Board of Directors and any other OMA group, including committee, constituency group, or task force, that may hold an in-camera session.
Appointment policy and procedure
This policy applies to appointments to all OMA committees (except board committees), task forces, panels and working groups as well as OMA member appointments made to external bodies.