On Wednesday, April 29, physicians from across Niagara will gather together at the Marriott Gateway in Niagara Falls to celebrate Doctors’ Day. The event’s aim is to honour the contributions and accomplishments of physicians within the Niagara region and their commitment to improving the health of our communities. The celebration is an initiative by Niagara Health System’s Medical Staff Association, the Ontario Medical Association, the Lincoln County Academy of Medicine, the GNG Medical Society and the Niagara South Medical Society.
“This event marks the first time the Niagara Health System Medical Staff Association, Ontario Medical Association and various medical societies throughout Niagara have partnered to celebrate our commitment to the region’s patients and families. It will provide an opportunity to bring together physicians from across the region to showcase the many successes and milestones that have strengthened our local healthcare,” explains Dr. Parminder Brar, Vice President of the Niagara Health System Medical Staff Association.
26,000 practicing physicians in Ontario work tirelessly to ensure the continued health of their patients, working an average of 55 hours per week. “It is important to recognize that doctors are not only pillars of the healthcare system but of the community as well,” says Minister Jim Bradley, the MPP for St. Catharines and Deputy Government House Leader “Physicians are actively involved in developing a healthcare system in Ontario that is efficient and sustainable for the future. Doctors’ Day is a great opportunity for patients to pay gratitude to their doctors for all their hard work and dedication to healthcare.”
Ontario’s physicians treat an average of 320,000 patients each day in clinics, hospitals and private practices, including approximately 5.9 million patients each year in emergency departments across the province. “I am pleased to participate in recognizing the physicians in our NHS system and our communities and to thank them for their contributions to great care,” says Dr. Suzanne Johnston, President of the Niagara Health System.
In 2011, the provincial government designated May 1 as “Doctors’ Day” – an official day of appreciation and acknowledgement for our province’s medical professionals. May 1 was chosen to honour the birthday of Dr. Emily Stowe, Canada’s first female physician and a lifelong supporter of women’s rights. “Doctors’ Day celebrates the achievements made by Ontario’s doctors and the resounding impact they have made on advancing patient care, research and transforming the healthcare system,” adds Dr. Tom Stewart, Niagara Health System Chief of Staff and Executive Vice-President Medical.
Quotes:
“Doctors’ Day provides a unique opportunity to raise awareness about the contributions made by talented men and women within the region.” -Dr. Satish Chawla, President of the NHS Medical Staff Association.
“I know I speak on behalf of my colleagues when I say it is a great privilege for us to treat and care for our patients every day. Today is an opportunity when I, alongside patients, thank each and every one of Ontario’s 26,000 doctors for the amazing work that they do,” - Dr. Ved Tandan, OMA President and a surgeon from Hamilton.
Media Contact Lindsay Millar, Executive Assistant to Brady Wood, Communications and Patient Relations 905-378-4647 ext. 47579. Lindsay.Millar@niagarahealth.on.ca
