The Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) is a peer-reviewed general medical journal that publishes original clinical research, commentaries, analyses, and reviews of clinical topics, health news, clinical practice updates and thought-provoking editorials. CMAJ has had substantial impact on health care and the practice of medicine in Canada and around the world. CMAJ has four areas of focus — mental health, health of vulnerable populations, health services and sepsis. As a general medical journal, CMAJ will continue to publish content on a wide variety of topics. However, these specific topic areas will guide content and submissions, contribute to the evidence base, influence clinical practice and raise awareness among policy-makers and the public of these pressing health issues.