Guidelines and Considerations for Position Papers, Resolutions & Motions

OPHA maintains a member-driven policy development process. Position papers and resolutions regarding specific issue are researched and developed by OPHA members who are selected based on interest and expertise.

Note: Position papers, resolutions, and motions must be presented in person at the Annual General Meeting in order to be considered for ratification. The AGM is held in conjunction with the OPHA Annual Conference, whose location often alternates between the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and another region of the province.

Considerations Prior To Submitting Position Papers, Resolutions & Motions

Choosing an issue. Does it affect …

  • The health of one or more identifiable groups or the public at large.

  • Health care or public health policy, programming or practice.

  • The service delivery system or public health practitioners as an interest group.

  • Existing OPHA resolutions, position papers or motions that may require follow-up action, revision (updating and/or re-targeting), or deletion because they are obsolete.

  • Emerging issues not yet well known or items of public discussion that can be made topical by OPHA action.

Is the topic relevant and timely? Use the following questions to screen possible resolutions:

  • Does it fall within OPHA's mission statement?

  • Does it address one or more of the issues identified under Choosing an issue?

  • Will action taken after the Annual General Meeting be relevant and/or effective? (The Meeting is held in November; implementation usually begins the following January.)

  • Is the scope of the issue or concern local, provincial or national?

  • Will OPHA have to refer the matter to some other agent or body?

  • Has it been or is it currently being addressed by OPHA?

Is it practical as a resolution?

  • Can OPHA directly or indirectly influence the issue or problem?

  • Do the resources to carry out the proposed action exist within OPHA? If not, can the necessary resources be assembled in time to make a difference?

  • Do other OPHA members, workgroups or constituent societies or external organizations share your concern? What, if anything, are they doing or planning to do about it?

  • Could it be referred to the Board, a workgroup or committee for action?

  • Could it be addressed by some other means, e.g., a brief, deputation or letter from the Board?

Implementation Strategies

  • In arriving at an effective strategy, consider where and how the matter is to be decided, implemented and/or enforced.

  • Identify the key decision-maker(s) that must be informed and influenced.

  • Identify what opportunities exist for OPHA advocacy or action (public hearings, meetings, consultations, etc.).

  • Develop a strategy that takes maximum advantage of the opportunities.

  • Are you willing to work to implement the resolution?