Commensality groups are known to reduce 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.

“VPSA ran a successful pilot commensality group program in 2022 and has been funding groups ever since,” said  VPSA President Dr. Adam Meneghetti. “We’re pleased to share with members that 26 groups will be funded this year. That will add to the 85 commensality groups we have supported up to now, with close to 700 physicians benefitting.”

The newly funded groups represent physicians from a wide variety of departments and divisions including Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, Family Medicine, Allergy and Immunology, Anatomical Pathology, Endocrinology, Psychiatry, Infectious Diseases, Respirology, Radiology, Emergency Medicine, Neurology, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and Maternal Fetal Medicine. Ten of the groups are receiving funding for the first time, while 16 have received renewed funding. VPSA provides up to $30 per physician for meals at six monthly gatherings.

Members of the Division of Anatomical Pathology commensality group.

Pathologist Dr. Lawrence Lee formed a new commensality group in order to bring together members of the Division of Anatomical Pathology to have meaningful discussions.

“We often work in silos, and this funding allows us to bridge those gaps to discuss shared experiences,” he said. “I am hoping these meetings will contribute to the overall well-being of our division as well as foster a culture of inclusivity and openness. The funding is a huge help in getting everyone together because no one says no to a free lunch!”

Geriatrician Dr. Diane Villanyi organized her group’s first meeting on May 14th.

Members of the Geriatrician Medicine commensality group.

“It was a unique pleasure to meet as a group over dinner!” she said. “We all practice as internists at UBC Hospital, but because it is a small service with just one attending physician each week, we ironically never see each other at work. The commensality dinners give us an opportunity to get to know one another in a personal and meaningful way, allowing us to discuss a broad range of wellness issues. It is all too easy to feel isolated by global turmoil today, and the simple act of sitting down with colleagues over a good meal provides an oasis of connectedness. ”

VCH Medical Director Long-Term Care Dr. Marla Gordon has organized several commensality groups over the years, and her two groups had their funding renewed for 2026/2027.

Members of the Vancouver Community leadership commensality group.

“The VPSA-funded commensality dinner groups have had a huge impact on the well-being of our long-term care and Vancouver Community leadership members,” she said. “We have developed collegial relationships outside of work, and this has led to an enhanced sense of community. After each get together the attendees feel relaxed, happy, and connected. Thank you VPSA for this important opportunity for physician well-being.”

“It’s wonderful to hear the positive impact this funding is making,” said VPSA Community Building & Wellness Task Group Chair Dr. Lucy Lyons. “We hope to be able to continue supporting many groups and I’d especially like to encourage departments and divisions that have yet to apply to do so when the next round of funding comes available.”