We all have biases. Recognizing that is the first step towards breaking them. That was Dr. Golnaz Golnaraghi’s first point in a recent presentation to VCH physicians and UBC medical residents and students. Her address took place on March 8—International Women’s Day—whose theme this year was #BreakTheBias. “Bias impacts hiring, promotion, career development and trajectories,” said Dr. Golnaraghi, an award-winning equity and inclusion expert. “The pandemic has exacerbated gender inequity. … Read More
Diversity, equity, and inclusion making inroads at VCH
It was an idea started in 2018 when then Senior Medical Director Dr. Marcel Dvorak asked VPSA members two questions: why don’t women want to participate in VCH leadership roles, and, what’s holding them back? Those questions sparked a series of appreciative inquiries and events hosted by VPSA with over 65 physicians and VCH leaders taking part. The result was Using All our Talents: Meaningful Leadership Opportunities for Women Physicians … Read More
Small Steps, Big Idea projects increasing collaboration across the health authority
One of the Vancouver Physician Staff Association’s priorities is to encourage physicians to work across disciplines and with their allied health colleagues and health authority leaders. One way VPSA members can do this is through Small Steps, Big Idea project funding. The initiative provides $1,000 to $5,000 to selected applicants to develop concepts that meet VPSA criteria. VPSA has been funding Small Steps, Big Idea projects since 2018. Funding covers … Read More
A new name for our VGH lounge: VMDAS Hub for Engagement and Wellness
Since 2019, medical staff at VGH have been able to gather in a space dedicated to their needs. The space’s name has recently been changed from the Physician Hub for Engagement and Wellness to the VMDAS Hub for Engagement and Wellness. “We made this name change to be inclusive of other members of the medical staff,” said VMDAS and VPSA President Dr. Alison Harris. “We want all our members who … Read More
DEI committee working to #BreakTheBias
For the fourth straight year, the VCH Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee is working to highlight women medical staff and their extraordinary contributions to our health authority on International Women’s Day—March 8. Led by VCH DEI International Women’s Day 2022 Chair, Dr. Helen Kwoo, committee members are promoting this year’s theme of Break the Bias. Keynote speaker Dr. Golnaz Golnaraghi will tackle the issue head on with her presentation on … Read More