Dr. James Makokis went into medicine to make a difference in the lives of people. As a Nehiyô two-spirit physician, he is determined to bring the humanity back to medicine. He practices family medicine in Kinokamasihk Cree Nation in northeastern Alberta and has a transgender-health-focused practice in south Edmonton. He spoke to VPSA members and other VCH medical staff during a recent Zoom session about decolonizing medicine and offering safe and inclusive … Read More
Funding now available for physician commensality groups
Commensality groups have been shown to reduce physician burnout, decrease depression, and improve job satisfaction. Originally studied and deployed at the Mayo Clinic, these groups are small gatherings of physicians who meet monthly for an hour to discuss issues central to the physician experience. Some departments and divisions at VCH have started their own commensality groups but a lack of funding has held others back. To assist, VPSA is launching … 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
Doctors of BC president shares his optimism in the face of difficult challenges
Dr. Matthew Chow was one of the guest speakers at the December 6th VMDAS/VPSA joint annual general meeting. Dr. Chow, who is finishing his term as president of the Doctors of BC, attended via Zoom and thanked all members for their dedication and commitment over this past difficult year. “The pandemic has created many divisions in our society,” noted Dr. Chow. “There are anti-vaccine, anti-mask, and anti-government sentiments and there … Read More
New board presented at VMDAS/VPSA joint AGM
VMDAS and VPSA have a new board of directors who were confirmed at the recent annual general meeting of the two associations. Dr. Alison Harris assumes the position of president, with past president Dr. Eric Yoshida now serving the board in an advisory capacity. Dr. Ka Wai Cheung (who previously served as a member-at-large) was elected as our vice president. Dr. Michael Nimmo remains as secretary with Dr. John Ridley … Read More