Archdiocesan Catholics in the health care industry have an opportunity to meet like-minded colleagues now, as the San Francisco chapter of the Catholic Medical Association held its first meeting at St. Dominic Church on Sept. 14.

The group’s aim is to “encourage your faith and invigorate your ability to practice Catholic medicine,” said Dr. Cynthia Hunt, a CMA regional director.

Founded in 1932, the Catholic Medical Association is a physician-led association of Catholic health care professionals devoted to providing fellowship, education and support for its members. The organization describes its mission as helping its members “live and promote the principles of the Catholic Faith in the science and practice of medicine.

For many medical professionals, that can be quite difficult. Dr. Michel Accad, the San Francisco chapter president, said Catholics in health care “not only witness things that are wrong but it’s hard to take action – the dysfunction is so profound it can be hard to understand what is going on.”

Many in the health care industry are also concerned about professional repercussions from practicing medicine in accord with their faith.

The Catholic Medical Association “has been helpful” because of the educational and communal resources it provides health care workers, Dr. Accad said.

The chapter’s mission for its first years, he said, will be aimed at “mutual support, educating ourselves and making connections.

Full story at Catholic San Francisco.