Canadian Orthopaedic Care Day

Save the Date

Celebrating Canadian Orthopaedic Care Day 2026: A Day in the Life of an Orthopaedic Professional

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 marks a significant event in the Canadian healthcare calendar — the Fifth Annual Canadian Orthopaedic Care Day.

This year’s theme, ‘A Day in the Life’ highlights the everyday moments, challenges, and triumphs that define our profession, reminding us of the essential role orthopaedic care plays in supporting a rapidly aging population. Canadian Orthopaedic Care Day was created to shine a light on the realities of orthopaedic practice — for those who deliver it, and for the health authorities and policymakers who shape the systems around it.

Download the media kit and visual assets here.

This year, we’re highlighting “A Day in the Life of an Orthopaedic Professional,” showcasing the real moments, challenges, and rewards that define our work. Through these snapshots, we aim to spotlight the daily realities of orthopaedic care across the country and strengthen understanding among colleagues, health authorities, and policymakers.

We’re encouraging engagement in an online campaign designed to foster dialogue, share knowledge, and inspire action:

Online Advocacy: Share your support and insights on social media using the hashtags #CdnOrthoDay and #OrthoCareCanada.
Government Engagement: Reach out to your local federal and provincial representatives. Invite them to visit your institutions, offering them a firsthand look at the challenges and opportunities in orthopaedic care within your community.

Across Canada, an average of 3.73 orthopaedic surgeons per 100,000 people work every day to support the mobility, independence, and quality of life of millions. Reaching a sustainable target of 7 surgeons per 100,000 would require tripling training output over the next decade—at the same time that an estimated 25–30% of the current workforce is nearing retirement. Yet there is meaningful progress to celebrate: 32% of the 2025 graduating cohort identify as female, a record high in Canadian orthopaedics and a sign of a more inclusive future. Understanding the daily realities of orthopaedic practice is essential for better system planning, and Canadian Orthopaedic Care Day offers a moment to celebrate, educate, and advocate for the care that keeps our country moving.

References:
Canadian Orthopaedic Association. (2025). 2025 COA graduate snapshot. https://coa-aco.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/2025-COA-Graduate-Snapshot-5.pdf
CMPA data: Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA). Type of Work (TOW) 94 – Surgery: Orthopedic. Data as of December 31, 2024.
Population data: Statistics Canada. Table 17-10-0005-01: Population estimates on July 1st, by age and sex.

Mobility disabilities are a growing concern

In 2022, 10.6% of Canadians aged 15 and over—over 3.1 million people—reported a mobility-related disability. Among seniors aged 65+, 63% experience mobility disabilities.

Canada’s aging population is rapidly increasing

As of July 1, 2024, 7.8 million Canadians were 65 years or older. By 2036, seniors could represent up to 25% of the total population.

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions remain a leading cause of disability

Pain, mobility restrictions, and flexibility impairments are among the most reported disabilities among older adults.

Demand for orthopaedic care is rising

As the population ages and mobility challenges increase, access to timely orthopaedic care will be critical to maintaining quality of life, independence, and mobility for millions of Canadians.

Without investments in orthopaedic care, mentorship for early-career surgeons, and collaboration with allied health professionals, Canada risks longer wait times, increased disability rates, and reduced quality of life for seniors.

Wednesday, March 25, 2026