Awards 2024

Dr Evan Adams, Lund—King Charles III Coronation Medal

Dr Evan Adams, Lund, was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for contributing and leading Indigenous public health organizations and amplifying Indigenous voices. The coronation medal recognizes the significant contribution an individual has made to Canada or a particular province, territory, region or community in the country. This also includes outstanding achievements made abroad that have brought credit to Canada.

Dr Olivia Anglin—The BCCFP R2 Resident Award

Dr Olivia Anglin, is currently an R2 Resident at UBC Family Medicine Victoria Site and is described by her nominators as having “love and commitment to community-based family medicine.” Born, raised, and educated in Victoria, Dr Anglin’s journey into medicine began with an undergraduate degree in Anthropology at the University of Victoria, followed by medical training at the Island Medical Program where she discovered her passion for family medicine.

Dr Christie Chan—First Five Years of Practice Award 

Dr Christie Chan is a resolute family physician whose commitment to improving health care access and systems has earned her recognition and accolades within the medical community. One nominator noted that "in [their] two decades as a family physician, [they] have not worked with anyone more deserving of this award." A graduate of UBC for both her undergraduate and medical school education, Dr. Chan furthered her training at Dalhousie University for residency, where her passion for family medicine and rural health care flourished. The Medical Director at Nisga’a Valley Health Authority (NVHA), Dr Chan also serves as an alternate member on the Joint Standing Committee (JSC) on rural issues with Doctors of BC. 

Dr Svetlana Hadikin—Resident Leadership Award—Rural Coordination Centre,  BC Rural Health Awards 

Dr Svetlana Hadikin, a second-year family medicine resident, has been awarded the inaugural Resident Leadership Award from the Rural Coordination Centre – BC Rural Health Awards. Dr Hadikin, who lives in Rossland and works in Fruitvale, said she has always been drawn toward a career in rural family practice. Her colleague Rebecca Flynn said “I have witnessed first-hand her passion for rural healthcare. She advocates for her patients, as well as for her rural resident colleagues on a regional and provincial level.” 

Dr. Erika Kellerhals, Heriot Bay—King Charles III Coronation Medal 

A family doctor in Campbell River and on Quadra Island for 30 years, Dr Kellerhals has shifted to helping people across the North Island suffering from substance abuse, using her expertise and passion to advocate for detox and treatment, as well as preventive measures and safe supply. The coronation medal recognizes the significant contribution an individual has made to Canada or a particular province, territory, region or community in the country. This also includes outstanding achievements made abroad that have brought credit to Canada.

Dr Jonathan Kerr, Comox—My Family Doctor Award 

Based in Comox on Vancouver Island, Dr. Jonathan Kerr is described as “the epitome of a fantastic family physician” by his patients. Dr. Kerr demonstrates unwavering dedication to family medicine and community well-being and is a tenacious advocate for positive change. As Chair of the Comox Valley Family Physician Recruitment and Retention Task Force, Dr. Kerr has spearheaded efforts that resulted in the recruitment of 44 family physicians and eight nurse practitioners to the region over the past three years, with patients noting how “extremely grateful” they are for improved accessibility. 

Dr David Luu—the BCCFP R2 Resident Award

Dr David Luu, an R2 Resident at the UBC Family Medicine Surrey-South Fraser site, is “a leader among his peers and a champion for family medicine,” in the words of one nominator. Born and raised in Port Coquitlam, Dr. Luu embarked on his journey in medicine driven by a desire to serve his community. His academic pursuits led him to complete his undergraduate degree at Simon Fraser University (SFU) and medical school at the University of Saskatchewan, where his passion for family medicine flourished. As a Co-Lead Resident of the Surrey-South Fraser site, he consistently surpasses expectations, earning accolades from both current and former Site Directors. 

Dr Charmaine Ma—First Five Years of Practice Award

Dr Charmain Ma is described as a beacon of compassionate care, medical education, and community advocacy within the realm of family medicine, with one nominator stating that “the reach of [Dr. Ma’s] impact is far and wide - as a physician she provides exceptional care, as an educator she inspires new learners and brings the community to a higher knowledge space, and as leader she continues to innovate and bring enthusiasm to our health system.” Dr Ma graduated with a degree in Pharmacy from UBC before venturing into health care. Following her residency at St. Paul’s Hospital, she found her calling in family medicine. Dr. Ma is involved in initiatives such as the National Guidelines for Dementia, where she championed a tailored version for the Black and Chinese communities.

Dr Alison MacInnes, Vancouver—My Family Doctor Award 

Dr Alison MacInnes is a distinguished family physician with over 25 years of dedicated service in Vancouver, who, according to one of her nominators, “makes the world a better place…one patient encounter at a time.” A graduate of UBC Medical School in 1997, Dr. MacInnes went on to complete her Family Practice residency in Montreal, honing her skills and expertise in providing “comprehensive care across the life span.” Dr. MacInnes’ passion for maternity care led her to assume the role of Medical Lead for low-risk obstetrics and postpartum care at BC Women’s Hospital, where she continues to make a profound impact on the lives of patients and their newborns.

Dr Gareth Jerome Mannheimer, Invermere—King Charles III Coronation Medal 

Dr Gareth Mannheimer, a family physician at the Invermere Medical Clinic, was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal. The coronation medal recognizes the significant contribution an individual has made to Canada or a particular province, territory, region or community in the country. This also includes outstanding achievements made abroad that have brought credit to Canada.

Dr Celine McCaughran-Contreras—Dr Manoo and Jean Gurjar Award

Dr Celine McCaughran-Contreras, in her second year at the UBC Family Medicine St. Paul’s site, was raised and trained on the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Tsleil-Waututh, and Squamish nations. Having completed her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology and medical education at the University of British Columbia, Dr McCaughran-Contreras’ decision to pursue residency in her hometown reflects her dedication to maintaining close community ties while providing a nurturing environment for her family. Dr McCaughran-Contreras has seen placement at clinics such as the Vancouver Aboriginal Health Society and the John Reudy Clinic. Dr McCaughran-Contreras’ has become known for her trauma-informed and patient-centered approach, while her involvement with Girls Who LEAP and OUTreach highlights her commitment to empowering marginalized youth and fostering queer mentorship opportunities within the medical field.

Dr Birinder Narang, Burnaby Division of Family Practice—King Charles III Coronation Medal

Dr. Birinder Narang was honoured with a King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of his significant contributions as a medical leader and family physician in Canada and his community. Dr. Narang is a notable medical professional and a community champion of health, advocacy, and culture. His professional career has taken him in many directions, assuming multiple roles across the University of British Columbia's Department of Family Practice, the Burnaby Division of Family Practice, Doctors of BC, Global BC, and CKNW 980 as a medical contributor, and in his own practice as a family physician at the REACH Community Health Centre.

Dr Nazia Niazi, Surrey-North Delta Divisions of Family Practice—King Charles III Coronation Medal

Dr Nazia Niazi of the Family Practice Clinic in Newton was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal. The coronation medal recognizes the significant contribution an individual has made to Canada or a particular province, territory, region or community in the country. This also includes outstanding achievements made abroad that have brought credit to Canada.

Dr. Pravjot Nijjar, Burnaby—My Family Doctor Award 

Dr Pravjot Nijjar is a family physician who, according to one of her nominators, has “profound impact” on her patients through “exceptional care and dedication.” Born in India and raised in Abbotsford, Dr Nijjar embarked on her family medicine journey following completion of residency training in Chilliwack. Dr Nijjar began practising in Duncan, where she provided comprehensive medical care that encompassed long-term care, inpatient care, obstetrics, and participation in the sexual assault response team. In 2003, Dr. Nijjar moved to Burnaby, focusing on office-based care, where her passion for family medicine flourished. 

Dr Peter J. Newbery, former member of the Hazelton Chapter of the Rural and Remote Division—King Charles III Coronation Medal

Dr Peter J Newbery of New Hazelton was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition for a lifetime of dedication to expanding access to rural medicine in BC. The coronation medal recognizes the significant contribution an individual has made to Canada or a particular province, territory, region or community in the country. This also includes outstanding achievements made abroad that have brought credit to Canada. 

Dr Aderemi Oyedeji, Dawson Creek—King Charles III Coronation Medal

Dr Aderemi Oyedeji of the Dawson Creek Medical Clinic was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal. The coronation medal recognizes the significant contribution an individual has made to Canada or a particular province, territory, region or community in the country. This also includes outstanding achievements made abroad that have brought credit to Canada.

Dr Laura Phillips—BC Family Physician of the Year Award

The BC Family Physician of the Year Award recognizes a family physician who provides exemplary care to patients and takes part in activities that contribute to excellence in family medicine. Dr Laura Phillips graduated from UBC in 2001 and completed her Family Medicine residency in Victoria. In the words of one her nominators, Dr Phillips has “led by example and demonstrated outstanding leadership and advocacy skills while being a role model for all whom she interacts with."  For over a decade, Dr. Phillips has been a stalwart member of the medical community in Victoria, co-chairing the Care Transitions Committee with the Victoria Division of Family Practice. Through this pivotal role, she has tirelessly collaborated with health authorities and fellow physicians to bridge the gaps in patient care, navigating the complexities of the medical system with grace and determination. 

Dr Robin Routledge—Award of Excellence in Rural Medicine – Lifetime Achievement 

Rural psychiatrist Dr Robin Routledge has been presented the Award of Excellence in Rural Medicine – Lifetime Achievement for his innovative work in the development of therapeutic community clinics in the Cowichan Valley. For 40 years, he led the clinics, which function as therapeutic communities where participants were able to improve their health through compassion, dignity, mutual education, and self-regard. Robin is also a long-standing core member at the Rural Coordination Centre in B.C. where he has championed, at the provincial level, the role of specialists in supporting family physicians and multidisciplinary teams. 

Dr. Erin Slade—Dr Manoo and Jean Gurjar Award 

Dr Erin Slade, of Kamloops, completed her BSc. in Biology before heading to Ontario for her MSc. in global health, eventually returning to British Columbia for medical school and residency in Prince George, specializing in rural family medicine. Driven by a passion for public health and a thirst for adventure, Dr Slade has managed plague outbreaks in Madagascar using innovative drone technology and conducted drug-resistant tuberculosis surveillance in India. Her dedication to underserved communities extends beyond borders, with endeavors such as mobile cervical cancer screening in East African refugee encampments and health policy advocacy with Indigenous communities through the First Nations Health Authority in BC. 

Dr Baldev Sanghera—Burnaby Division of Family Practice - King Charles III Coronation Medal 

Burnaby Dr Baldev Sanghera was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of the community service and leadership. Dr Sanghera is the Medical Director of PrimeCare Medical, Edmonds UPCC, and the Edmonds PCN. The coronation medal recognizes the significant contribution an individual has made to Canada or a particular province, territory, region or community in the country. This also includes outstanding achievements made abroad that have brought credit to Canada.

Dr Haley Smith—the BCCFP R2 Resident Award

Dr Haley Smith is an R2 Resident undergoing training at the UBC Family Practice St. Paul’s site, with one of her nominators stating they “have not seen a resident of her passion and ability in leadership and medical education for some time.” Born and raised in North Vancouver, Dr Smith completed her undergraduate degree in Chemistry at New York University’s campus in Abu Dhabi, where her passion for medicine began to flourish, leading her to UBC’s Vancouver Fraser Medical Program. Driven by a desire to foster enduring connections with patients and to provide support through every phase of their health journey, Dr. Smith chose family medicine as her specialty – with a particular interest in the care of the elderly and women’s health.

Dr Moa Sugimoto, Lumby—My Family Doctor Award

Dr Moa Sugimoto “goes above and beyond to take care of her community members” in the village of Lumby, according to her nominator. Dr Sugimoto graduated from Yokohama City University Medical School in Japan and pursued further training in general internal medicine in Japan, before venturing to Canada to explore clinical epidemiology at the University of British Columbia where she recognized her calling as a family physician. Dr Sugimoto’s residency at St. Paul’s Hospital International Medical Graduate (IMG) program earned her the 2020 Certificate of Excellence in Overall Performance and the Lloyd Jones Collins Research Award. Dr Sugimoto also serves as the Director Physician of Bethelmed Clinic, an online walk-in clinic supporting underserved Japanese-speaking residents of British Columbia.

Dr Jessica Zimbler, Prince George—My Family Doctor Award

Practicing in Prince George for over 15 years as a full-service family physician, Dr Jessica Zimbler is described by one of her nominators as “embodying extraordinary dedication, compassion, and expertise.”  Dr Zimbler got her medical degree from McGill University in Quebec, followed by residency training with UBC. Her commitment to excellence is shown through the full scope of her practice, encompassing general office practice, obstetrical care, inpatient hospital care, long-term care, palliative care, and surgical assists. Dr. Zimbler also plays a pivotal role as the Clinical Skills Course Director in Years 1 and 2 for the Northern Medical Program, along with her position as a Clinical Assistant Professor with the UBC Faculty of Medicine.

Dr Emily Evans 

Dr Emily Evans received the Dr David M Bachop Silver Medal in general medical practice, given annually to the UBC family practice resident, or the practice-eligible British Columbia registered general practitioner who achieves the best overall result in the Family Practice Certification. Dr Evan is currently travelling around northern Ontario to small towns and remote First Nation communities providing primary care, emergency medicine services, and hospital-based care. 

Dr Renee Fernandez – BC Family Doctors

Dr Renee Fernandez, Chief Medical Officer of BC Family Doctors, won the prestigious Dr Don Rix Award for physician leadership at the Doctors of BC Awards Gala on January 26, 2024. Established in memory of the late Dr Donald Rix, the award recognizes lifetime achievements and exemplary physician leadership so outstanding that it serves as an inspiration and a challenge to the medical profession in British Columbia. Dr Fernandez also received the College Coin by the BC College of Family Physicians, recognizing the work she has done on creating the longitudinal family practice model.

Dr Karen Forgie – Sunshine Coast Division of Family Practice

Dr Karen Forgie, a medical leader and rural family practitioner based in Sechelt, received the Silver Medal of Service Award at the Doctors of BC Awards Gala on January 26, 2024. The Silver Medal of Service is awarded to physicians who have made outstanding contributions to medicine and/or the improvement of British Columbians’ welfare. Dr Forgie served as president of BC Family Doctors President during the organization’s transition from the Society of General Practitioners of BC to BC Family Doctors and is now chair of economics.

Dr George Francis – Surrey-North Delta Division of Family Practice

Dr George Francis received the Exceptional Teaching Honour from the BC College of Family Physicians. The award recognizes and celebrates family physicians dedicated to teaching and mentorship. His nominator described Dr Francis as “an amazing, dedicated, and passionate teacher to his students.” 

Dr David Jerome – Thompson Region Division of Family Practice

Dr David Jerome, a Kamloops physician and medical officer with the Canadian Armed Forces, received the Exceptional Teaching Honour from the BC College of Family Physicians. The award recognizes and celebrates family physicians dedicated to teaching and mentorship. His nominator says: “Driven by passion and expertise, Dr. Jerome has significantly enriched the landscape of wilderness medicine education in Canada."

Dr Eric Juneau – Richmond Division of Family Practice

Dr Eric Juneau received the Exceptional Teaching Honour from the BC College of Family Physicians. The award recognizes and celebrates family physicians dedicated to teaching and mentorship. He was nominated for his “outstanding contributions in developing a clinical curriculum for medical technicians at a national level have significantly elevated the standards of education in the field.”

Dr David McBeath – East Kootenay Division of Family Practice

Dr David McBeath received the College Coin by the BC College of Family Physicians, recognizing his ongoing commitment to family medicine and dedication to good work. He was nominated for the time and energy he gave to the medical community in Fernie throughout his career. “Fernie has been extraordinarily lucky to have him here and younger physicians have been lucky to learn under him. The medical community will lose an important member when he decides to remove his shingle."

Dr Kevin McMeel – Nanaimo Division of Family Practice

Dr Kevin McMeel received the David Haughton Award for his considerable accomplishments in Emergency Medicine. He founded the Nanaimo Emergency Education Program (NEEP) and related initiatives like the Emergency Residency and Ultrasound Fellowship programs. According to his nominator, McMeel’s work “has not only advanced medical education but also improved patient care through the integration of ultrasound technology, benefiting physicians and communities alike.”

Dr Jay Slater – Vancouver Division of Family Practice

Dr Jay Slater received the Silver Medal of Service Award at the Doctors of BC Awards Gala on January 26, 2024. Dr Slater co-developed the Home VIVE Program as Physician Lead, which provides home-based primary care to frail elders in Vancouver, allowing patients to avoid unwanted placement in nursing homes and needless hospitalizations. Dr Slater is also a co-founder of the Vancouver Division of Family Practice and a published scholar, particularly relating to geriatric palliative care. 

Dr Taylor Swanson – Nanaimo Division of Family Practice

Dr Taylor Swanson received the College Coin by the BC College of Family Physicians, recognizing ongoing commitment to family medicine and dedication to good work. He was nominated for being “integral in achieving support funding and logistic support to save Nanaimo's GP in-patient care service from collapsing."

Dr Adam Thompson – Comox Valley Division of Family Practice

Courtenay’s Dr Adam Thompson received the College Coin by the BC College of Family Physicians, recognizing ongoing commitment to family medicine and dedication to good work. “Dr Thompson's investments in primary care/family practice is invaluable and has resulted in a model of remuneration and support that has breathed life back into found practice and I would like to acknowledge him for that," his nominator says. 

Dr Amanda Wang – Victoria Division of Family Practice 

Dr Amanda Wang, of Coastal Maternity Care, received the College Coin by the BC College of Family Physicians, recognizing ongoing commitment to family medicine and dedication to good work. Her nominator said Dr Wang is “has been a wonderful aid in making the steep learning curve of new to practice more manageable. She is also just a wonderful person and she delivers excellent timely evidence based care to her patients.” 

Dr Jessica Wilder – Nanaimo Division of Family Practice

Dr Jessica Wilder received the College Coin by the BC College of Family Physicians, recognizing ongoing commitment to family medicine and dedication to good work. She is head of hospital addictions medicine service in Nanaimo and physician lead for harm reduction and education for all of island health and regularly in the Northwest Territories providing comprehensive hospitalist care. Her nominator said “Dr Wilder is a passionate advocate and has saved many lives and provided compassionate care for the most vulnerable in our communities."

Dr Carole Williams – Cowichan Valley Division of Family Practice

Dr Carole Williams, a family physician in Duncan and co-chair of the Cowichan Valley Division of Family Practice, received the Silver Medal of Service Award at the Doctors of BC Awards Gala on January 26, 2024. Dr Williams is a clinical instructor in the Department of Family Medicine at UBC, a past president of BC Family Doctors (BCFD), and served as BCFD’s Executive Director. 

Dr Maryam Zeineddin  – President-Elect, BC Family Doctors

BC Family Doctors’ (BCFD) president-elect, Dr Maryam Zeineddin, was honoured with a Doctors of BC 2023 Recognition award on January 26, 2024. Dr Zeineddin was the BC Family Doctors representative to the Statutory Negotiating Committee for three years during negotiations for the 2022 Physician Master Agreement. She was also instrumental in negotiations to bring about the Longitudinal Family Physician Payment Model.