International Women's Day 2020

VPSA celebrates the work of women physicians

In anticipation of International Women’s Day 2020, the Vancouver Physician Staff Association canvassed members for the names of women physicians who have made extraordinary contributions to the workplace. We salute all our female members and invite you to read about the women who agreed to be profiled this year.

Dr. Kimberly Merkli

Dr. Merkli is a primary care physician and the medical coordinator at Pender Community Health Centre in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver. She has worked there since 2010, and in the medical coordinator role since 2015. Dr. Merkli went to medical school at the University of British Columbia and is now a UBC clinical instructor. During her family medicine residency at St. Paul’s Hospital, she developed a keen interest in primary care management of mental health, substance use, and infectious disease issues. In her leadership role, Dr. Merkli is currently focused on psychological safety and team-based care.

Outside of work, Dr. Merkli enjoys being outside with her husband and two young children.

What advice would you give to young women considering entering medicine in 2020? ​

“Kindness and compassion go a long way. Share them freely with your patients, your colleagues and yourself.”