Second year MD student, Sarah Tod and Family Medicine Residency Program Director, Dr. Willa Henry

Becoming a doctor doesn’t begin and end with being admitted to medical school. Choosing an area to specialize in as a resident is a tough decision that many students face in the later years of their undergraduate studies. While some students know right away which medical field they want to pursue, many are undecided or unsure.

The UBC Faculty of Medicine Careers Night offers undergraduate medical students the opportunity to explore different specialty programs. Program directors and current residents are on hand to answer questions and offer insight into what life is like as a particular type of doctor.

For second year student, Sarah Todd, this is a great venue to learn more about what kind of medical field might be right for her.

“I haven’t made up my mind yet. I have focused in on some areas that I think I’m interested in, but since I’m still in second year, I haven’t really had much clinical exposure to different fields. I’m hoping that I’ll be able to talk with both the program directors and the residents to get some information that will help prepare me.”

Dr. Willa Henry, the Director of UBC’s Family Medicine residency program believes events like Careers Night are of great benefit to undergraduate students, who can chat with current residents about what their fields are like, how they have been successful and how best undergrads can position themselves. In particular, she believes choosing a field of specialty takes very careful consideration.

“I think it’s really important that they’ve worked in the area that they are considering. Believe it or not, you have to choose (your specialty by the) beginning of fourth year even though you may not have ever had experience (in that area).”

Dr. Henry also advises that undergrads reflect on what strengths they would bring to a particular specialty.

“Everyone brings strengths and weaknesses to the table. Discovering the best ‘fit’ is the key to a successful post graduate career choice.”

Although the choice is not yet obvious yet for Sarah, she is hoping that events like Careers Night, along the more clinical aspects of her studies, will make her decision easier.

“Because I know third year is coming, I’m enjoying that we’re really gearing up towards putting everything we’ve learned into practice.”

MD students gathered at the UBC Medical Student Alumni Centre to celebrate the results of the first round of CaRMS.

The buzz of excitement was tangible as fourth-year MD students gathered today at the UBC Medical Student Alumni Centre to celebrate the results of the first round of the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS), which matches graduating MD students with postgraduate programs nationwide.

280 fourth-year MD undergraduate students from the class of 2015, set to be the largest graduating cohort in the history of the program, matched to postgraduate training programs in the first round — a strong showing in the highly-competitive Canadian residency match. 109 (nearly 40%) of the 2015 Class matched to Family Medicine.

With celebrations in order, UBC MD students were seen capturing the moments of Match Day on camera and sharing news of the results with peers, writing their specialty and location in bright magic marker on t-shirts donated by the Canadian Medical Association.

But the students were not the only ones to mark the occasion and celebrate the results.

This year, UBC’s postgraduate medical education programs accepted a record number of entry-level postgraduate trainees. 97% per cent of the 338 positions — the largest number of entry-level positions in the history of B.C. — were filled in the first round of the CaRMS match, a testament to the strength of postgraduate medical education at UBC.

A resident writes their specialty and location in bright magic marker on a t-shirt.

As in previous years, Family Medicine accounts for the largest number (nearly half) of the residency positions. This year, all 164 entry-level Family Medicine residency positions across the province were fully matched in the first round.

According to Dr. Martin Dawes, Head of UBC’s Department of Family Practice, this year’s CaRMS match results are very encouraging.

“We have increased positions in Family Medicine in response to B.C.’s most urgent need and the impact of today’s 100% match for the record number of 164 Family Medicine residency positions will improve access to health care and see better overall health for British Columbians,” says Dr. Dawes.

Starting this July, UBC’s Family Medicine Residency Program — now the largest in Canada —will begin training residents at sites across British Columbia, including a new site offering in Trail. Last summer, the Family Medicine Residency Program opened new training sites in Kamloops as well as North Vancouver.

Dr. Roger Wong, Associate Dean, Postgraduate Medical Education, sees the continued expansion and distribution of UBC’s residency programs as a step in the right direction.

“A sustainable healthcare system involves expanding opportunities for family doctors, generalists, as well as specialists so that we can ensure we’re meeting the needs of individuals living in urban, rural and remote regions of the province,” says Dr. Wong.

This July, a new Pediatrics training site in Victoria will also receive its first two residents, broadening pediatric medicine training outside of Vancouver.

Over the past decade, UBC’s expansion and distribution of medical education programs have significantly increased the number of physicians trained in British Columbia, creating clusters of academic and clinical learning in a wide range of settings — from urban hospitals to rural community health clinics — on the Island, in the North, the Interior and the Lower Mainland.

Students pinned flags to the various cities in Canada where they will be completing residencies.

Almost three quarters of those who completed postgraduate medical education training at UBC between 2000 and 2013 have remained in B.C. Of those who also completed their MD at UBC, 90 per cent have remained in B.C. to practice.

“I’m very encouraged by the growing numbers of doctors completing training and heading into practice to provide care to patients across the province,” says Dr. David Snadden, Executive Associate Dean, Education “This year’s strong match results are not only a testament to the caliber of our students and incredible efforts of faculty and staff, but a reflection of our commitment to increase the number of physicians completing training in communities across B.C.”

To become a doctor, students complete 4 years of undergraduate medical education, followed by postgraduate training which ranges from 2 years for family medicine, to 7 years for specialties.

A second round of the CaRMS match for the remaining unfilled positions will be held in April.

Interviews are over and the timeline says offer notifications are still weeks and weeks away… but why? Many applicants may wonder why we wait until May 15 to send the offers when the interviews are finished in February. There are a couple of reasons: one is that there are still several things to do before we can send the offers (or even know who to send them to), while another one is that we harmonize our offer date with that of other Canadian medical schools.

The first thing that happens after the interview is the post-interview file review. After the interviews, a second file review is performed. This review includes all aspects of your file, including references, MCAT scores, etc.

At the Final Selection meetings, the Admission Selection Committee discusses applicants and reaches a consensus to decide who is admissible to the program and who is not. The Selection Committee is not aware of site preference rankings – they just decide who should be offered a position in the program if one is available and who, unfortunately, should not be admitted this year. Since your entire file is up for review, there is a lot for the committee to discuss and these meetings take some time to complete.

When the meetings are finished, we know the list of admissible applicants. These applicants are then allocated to sites based on their ranking order and site preferences. Basically, we assign applicants to their first choice site unless that site is already full. We assign those applicants to their second choice, third choice, etc. as necessary (but not to any site marked “No Interest”). Applicants who are not assigned to their preferred sites are most likely put on the waitlist for those sites. If all of an applicant’s listed sites are full by the time we get to their name, they are placed on the waitlist.

Finally, we have our list of who is going where, who is on the waitlist, etc. Although we have this information before May 15, we wait until then because many other Canadian medical schools send their offers on or around this date as well. This allows applicants who receive offers from multiple schools time to consider the offers simultaneously. In addition, the process of filling the positions in the class goes more quickly and smoothly if applicants who decide not to go to UBC can decline their initial offer rather than withdrawing their acceptance later (but we of course understand that this is sometimes unavoidable). We also like to have a set day so applicants know to check their email and/or Application Status page on that day.

It is very hard to wait, especially the last few days, so we really do appreciate your patience!

The Run for Rural Medicine is an annual event put on by UBC’s Faculty of Medicine to raise awareness about rural medicine in British Columbia. Since many of BC’s residents live outside of major cities, providing the population with access to medical care is a central goal within the UBC medical program.

In its 11th year, the run will be taking place Saturday March 28th at 9am along beautiful Jericho Beach and Spanish Banks in Vancouver, near the UBC campus. There will be 5km walk/run and 10km run routes. The cost of registration for either distance is $25, and there will be many prizes which have been generously donated by local businesses in support of this cause!

Registration for the event can be completed here.

The Run for Rural Medicine is a charity fundraiser, and this year all proceeds will go to Hope Air charity. Hope Air provides flights to financially disadvantaged Canadians to reach the medical care they need. More information can be found on their website.

This is a community event so sign up today, and bring your family and friends along! Questions can be sent to ubcmed.ruralrun@gmail.com

Liz Willsey

Hometown:  Orillia, Ontario

Why medicine?

I’ve always had an interest in science and I love working with people. After seeing the impact of physicians on the lives around me, I knew it was the right career path. I knew I could combine my goal of helping people with my interest in scientific research.

What excites you the most about studying in the Vancouver Fraser region?

I’m excited to be studying in Vancouver, with the amazing doctors and technology the city has to offer. I love how vibrant the students in the program are at UBC! This semester, I’m looking forward to my placements with my Family Practice preceptor and for the Infectious Disease block. Oh, and I’m very excited for ski season now that I’m living so close to Whistler!

Where do you see yourself in 5 Years?

In 5 years, I hope to be working in a rural coastal community. I definitely would like to be practicing somewhere with waves so I can surf, good coffee, and lots of sun. I hope to be making a difference, even if in a small way … To someone, a small town, or an island community that without me, might have had less health service. I want people to know they can depend on me, and I want to be where I am needed most.

Scrubs or Suit?

Suit

PC or MAC?

MAC

Stay in or Go out?

Go out

Michael Gallea

Hometown: Stoney Creek, Ontario

Why medicine?

Growing up, I would never have guessed that I’d end up pursuing a career in medicine. After finishing high school, I could not choose between an undergraduate degree in the arts or a degree in the sciences, so ended up pursuing a liberal arts education in McMaster University’s Arts & Science program. This program allowed me to critically explore my wide interests in the arts (philosophies, social studies) and the sciences (environmental chemistry, immunology), and I soon came to find that I enjoyed making connections between both sides of these interconnected fields – always with a slight medical spin or emphasis on the general human experience. I had always heard that “good” medical practice was both an art and a science, so after a little more research, I realized that medicine would be the perfect career for me to continue to refine my proficiency in the arts while exploring the ever-evolving scientific field. So here I am today!

What excites you the most about studying in the Vancouver Fraser region?

First and foremost, I was looking forward to taking advantage of the West Coast weather (which, so far, has been much more favourable than my familiar Ontario chills) – but I’ve also felt quite privileged to be surrounded by so much natural beauty. There’s something special about being so close to the ocean, while also having the mountains at your fingertips.

Where do you see yourself in 5 Years?

Well, I hope to see myself finished medical school (fingers crossed) and further pursuing my education in a top-notch residency program. I hope to see myself giving back to the UBC community that has already given so much to me, and I’d like to think that I’ll be married (to a celebrity, of course) with at least eight children – but we’ll see how that plays out.

Scrubs or Suit?

Scrubs

PC or MAC?

PC

Stay in or Go out?

Go out

Lerly Luo

Hometown: Auckland, New Zealand

Why medicine?

Because I love connecting with people and there is something profoundly stirring about supporting others at their most vulnerable. Because I want to impact people in a meaningful way and there is nothing we treasure more than life and time. Because I dream about making the world a better place and I want to see just how far I can go.

What excites you the most about studying in the Vancouver Fraser region?

The rich multi-cultural atmosphere. The cornucopia of opportunity and innovation. City slicker life with nature at its doorsteps.

Where do you see yourself in 5 Years?

In residency hopefully! I always find looking forward hard as we are more capable than we think we are. I’d like to see myself taking my leadership in Global Health to the next level. Hopefully I’ll be working with social entrepreneurs to solve big problems. I better still be traveling the world – maybe with a handsome ninja.

Scrubs or Suit?

Suit

PC or MAC?

MAC

Stay in or Go out?

Go out

Dr. Amil Shah, Regional Associate Dean, VFMP (left) shares a laugh with a colleague

We often forget that many of those who work within the Faculty of Medicine are also experts in the medical field. Dr. Amil Shah, whom most of us in the faculty know as Regional Associate Dean (VFMP), is also an oncologist (formerly practicing with the BC Cancer Agency). As part of our initiatives for Daffodil Month, we posed some questions to Dr. Shah about his choice in specialty and the progress of cancer treatment in British Columbia.

What drew you to the field of oncology?

I don’t think there was a single reason or event that led me to oncology. In my final year of medical school, I thought of pathology or internal medicine/cardiology as a career. I chose internal medicine and came to Vancouver from Montreal after my second year as a medical resident at McGill University, with the intention of returning there to pursue a fellowship in gastroenterology. While I was here, I met Dr. Ian Plenderleith, Head of Medical Oncology at the Cancer Control Agency of BC (now the BC Cancer Agency). I was impressed by his knowledge, humility, and compassion for his patients. He told me of the new medical oncology fellowship at CCABC, and he encouraged me to consider it. By then, I was drawn to the Vancouver lifestyle and took his advice; I have not regretted that decision.

What has been a defining moment in your career as an oncologist?

I am fortunate to have been part of a few important changes in cancer treatment in the province during my medical oncology career. One that I am particularly proud of is our rethinking of the treatment of rectal cancer in the early 2000s. As the Chair of the BCCA Provincial GI Tumour Group, I fostered the collaboration of the colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists, radiation oncologists and others in promoting a new treatment protocol. The approach was not initially embraced by cancer centres in North America, but we were confident of success, based on analysis of patient outcomes in BC and the opportunity provided by the coordination of cancer care in the province through the BC Cancer Agency.

When it comes to cancer prevention, what are your top three pieces of advice?

The most obvious — and important — is not smoking. In addition to the well-known risk of lung cancer, cigarette smoking is linked to a number of other cancers, such as those of the oral cavity, larynx, esophagus, pancreas, bladder and kidney. A second advice is to follow the Canadian Cancer Society screening recommendations; the earlier a cancer is detected, the better the chance of a cure. Third, eat a good balanced diet, low in red meat but high in vegetables and fruits. In this regard, maintaining a normal body mass index is important, as obesity is associated with an increased risk for some cancers, such as those of the breast, uterus and colon.

What advice would you offer to patients who have recently been given a cancer diagnosis?

Dr. Amil Shah

The diagnosis of a cancer can be devastating to patients and their families. I would encourage patients to learn more about their condition. Different types of cancer have different outcomes. Overall, 63% of Canadians diagnosed with cancer will survive at least 5 years after their diagnosis. To be sure, cancer remains a significant malady, but cure rates continue to increase slowly and steadily, and even when a cure is not possible, many patients are living for longer periods with a good quality of life. We are lucky in BC to have a provincial cancer organization, which ensures that all patients have access to a high standard of care irrespective of where they live in the province. Therefore, patients should feel confident that they are receiving good care no matter where they may live.

You’ve been an oncologist for 30 years. What has been the biggest advancement in cancer treatment over the course of your career?

Over the past two decades, there has been a remarkable advance in our understanding of what causes a cancer to develop. This is critical. One lesson we have learned in medicine is that you cannot truly turn a disease around until you understand its cause. We now have a deep understanding about what is at the root of the formation of a cancer. This knowledge comes from the discovery of key regulatory genes — oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes — that malfunction in cancers. This has led to the crafting of a brand new class of anti-cancer drugs, called molecularly targeted agents, that counter the action of the cancer genes. However, there is still much to be learned. It is important to note that the “cancer genes” are mutated versions of important normal genes that control important cellular functions, including cell growth and division. The interaction among the cell’s numerous genes is complex, and they form a network, so that interfering with one pathway affects others — sometimes unpredictably and adversely. Now that we have an increasing number of molecularly targeted anti-cancer agents, we have to understand the optimal way to use them. I believe that this will only come from unravelling the complex cellular gene network, and, in my opinion, this should be a priority in cancer research.

Being an oncologist must be challenging both professionally and emotionally. What motivates you?

There is no doubt that the practice of oncology brings its challenges, but so do other medical disciplines. I am always moved when I am greeted, sometimes years later, by former patients or their family members, who express their thanks. Also, witnessing and being a small part of the progress made in the treatment of cancer in the province is, indeed, rewarding.

Elisa Assadi

The life of a medical student is busy and demanding. Between classes, assignments, clinical skill development and (lots of) studying, it would seem there isn’t time for much else. Nevertheless, there are some who make sure that, along with their academic responsibilities, they are working on building leadership and community skills within the university environment. Elisa Assadi is one of those students.

The Edward JC Hossie Leadership Award is bestowed annually to a UBC student who demonstrates exceptional leadership. Dr. Janette McMillan, Associate Dean, Office of Student Affairs, immediately thought of Elisa when she was considering who she could nominate.

“Elisa is an outstanding and involved student, who is on the cusp of becoming a leader in both the medical field and the community at large.”

Elisa has been involved in student politics, serving as her Year 1 Class President and the Medical Undergraduate Society President. She has represented UBC in the Canadian Federation of Medical Students, meeting with political leaders in both Ottawa and Victoria to discuss issues facing today’s medical students. Dr. McMillan cites her keen problem-solving skills and calm disposition as a few of Elisa’s strengths, which have aided her in serving on high-level search committees, advising faculty executive around student issues and earning the respect of her peers and teachers.
For Elisa, being involved in the University community has been a no-brainer. One of the main reasons she is pursuing a medical career is so that she can give back to society in a meaningful way. She explains how being involved in the UBC community can enhance not only one’s personal life, but professional life as well.

“You never know where each opportunity can take you. Don’t take any of them at face value. If a door opens, walk through it and be prepared for a world of excitement, change and new relationships.”

Elisa is set to graduate with her MD this spring and will begin a Family Medicine residence with UBC in Victoria. She hopes to practice medicine in British Columbia, and dreams of eventually forming her own clinic.

“Regardless, it is my intent to stay closely connected with UBC and keep finding ways to give back to the university that has given so much to me.”

Recently, two of our VFMP faculty members received the 2015 Canadian Association for Medical Education (CAME) Certificate of Merit Award. This honour recognizes and rewards faculty committed to medical education in Canadian medical schools. Dr. Linlea Armstrong and Dr. Pawel Kindler kindly agreed to reflect on their teaching experience and what it has meant to them.

Dr. Linlea Armstrong

I’m in Medical Genetics, and have been with the Provincial Medical Genetics Program since 2003. I also hold the role of Faculty Development Director, VFMP within the Faculty of Medicine.
I have worked to develop, and then teach in and direct the Preparation for Medical Practice (PMP) course. This course is a fourth year MDUP, multi-format course with many teachers participating. It provides approximately 150 formal learning hours, and is delivered to 298 students at three sites across BC per year.

I have also led the PRIN 410 Week on single gene disease for first year medical students. This included maintaining the PBL case, lecturing, assessment, remediation, and providing content and case expertise at the tutor development meeting.

Since starting as a Clinical Geneticist in 2003, I have welcomed diverse clinical learners into my practice, including residents and fellows, trainees in diagnostic laboratory programs, genetic counseling students, and nursing students.

What I enjoy most about teaching is being in a learning environment where people take the time to think through problems collaboratively and move the group understanding ahead. People one finds working in medical education circles tend to be positive, interesting, and keen to help others.

If I could give one piece of advice to those who find teaching a challenge, it would be to invest time in getting to know the learner and the learner’s goals up front. One of the biggest pitfalls we as busy clinicians fall into when we get asked to teach is assuming we know what the learners want and expect from us, and thus failing to set up for a successful interaction by negotiating the parameters of the interaction. Learners usually can very clearly answer the simple question, “How will I be most successful working with you today?”

Dr. Pawel Kindler

A basic scientist by training, I joined the UBC Faculty of Medicine in 2004 to focus on medical education, which became my passion soon after my earlier appointment in the medical school at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Contributing to the education of future physicians is an immense privilege and a lasting challenge which I endeavor to approach from a research-informed perspective, both in the disciplines that I teach and in educational scholarship. My teaching responsibilities at UBC have focused on gross anatomy, physiology and problem/case based learning in the Medical and Dental Undergraduate Program, but I have also been involved in the renewal process of the undergraduate medical curriculum and in fostering pedagogical innovation within several already existing courses.

Through my scholarship of teaching and learning I have considered opportunities to optimize learning outcomes in ways that draw on students’ increased motivation and a sense of ownership of the learning process. The most rewarding aspects of teaching for me are the partnerships that I develop with clinical and foundational science colleagues that are so instrumental in providing effective and exciting learning environments. Equally rewarding are my partnerships with our students, especially in the contexts of addressing their specific learning needs and goals and making overall contributions to their emergence as knowledgeable, reflective and caring medical and dental practitioners.

I am grateful to my colleagues for nominating me for this prestigious award, and deeply humbled by having received it.

Contributed by Jessica McCallum (VFMP 2016)

Dr. Dan Kim, faculty mentor for the Ultrasound Club, instructs students on proper ultrasound technique.

On January 24th, 2015 the UBC Ultrasound Club hosted its inaugural medical student ultrasound symposium at the MSAC. 61 VFMP students attended the 4-hour event, which taught students the basics of bedside ultrasound including ultrasound physics and abdominal, cardiac, pleural, and vascular imaging.

“There was huge interest in attending the symposium, with approximately 270 students expressing interest in attending at the VFMP alone. Similar workshops have happened at the IMP and NMP, with one planned at the SMP soon,” says Jessica McCallum, VFMP student and event organizer. “Participants at all sites…feel basic ultrasound, including a hands-on component, should be integrated into our MD undergraduate curriculum.”

Dr. Dan Kim, faculty mentor for the ultrasound club, describes how keen his students are to learn about ultrasounds and proper diagnostic techniques. “Whenever I have a medical student with me on an emergency shift, the one thing they consistently show the greatest interest in is point-of-care ultrasound,” he explains. “The level of enthusiasm and interest far exceeded my expectations.”

Dr. Andy Neitzel, another club faculty mentor, agrees. “Not since the advent of the stethoscope as a tool come along that has had such a significant impact on patient care. Medical ultrasound has become invaluable in clinical medicine. Fortunately, it is a skill that is easy to learn and extremely popular with trainees of all levels. I know many physicians who no longer carry a stethoscope, but now carry a pocket sized portable ultrasound machine.”

Ultrasound machines for the event were generously donated by GE, Sonosite, and CESEI and the event was sponsored by the Medical Undergraduate Society. Similar workshops are being planned at the IMP, SMP and NMP.

Leadership Update

As Dr. David Snadden, Executive Associate Dean, Education, announced on March 25, the Director of Curriculum Dr. Sandra Jarvis-Selinger is taking on an exciting new role as Associate Dean, Academic with the UBC Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Dr. Jarvis-Selinger will continue to lead renewed curriculum development until June 2015 in time for the launch of the renewed first year. As part of her continued leadership she will be ensuring that many of her activities are transitioned into curricular systems and processes.

The MD Undergraduate Program is in the process of identifying next steps to fill the role Dr. Jarvis-Selinger has played so well.  We thank Dr. Jarvis-Selinger for her direction and commitment and wish her continued success in her new position.

For Curriculum Renewal, it continues to be business as usual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curriculum Renewal is an intricate initiative that is moving full steam ahead. It can be challenging to keep up with the latest developments.

It is perfectly reasonable for people to have questions such as, How are we approaching assessment in the renewed curriculum? What are the teaching implications for the renewed curriculum? Etc. Here are the responses to these and other CR questions.

New Week Schedules

The MD Undergraduate Education Committee has approved the Week Schedule Templates for Year 1 and Year 2 of the renewed curriculum. Detailed schedules for each week in Year 1 are currently being finalized.  Learn more about the new week schedules.

Course Spotlight: FLEX (MEDD 419, 429, and 439)

FLEX (flexible and enhanced learning) is a new, innovative series of three courses designed to foster innovation, creativity, and critical thought. It starts with a Foundations of Scholarship component in Year 1 and then offers opportunities for students to engage in self-directed learning activities in the second half of Year 1 and in Years 2 and 3.

FLEX is intended to prepare graduates for roles as scholars and life-long learners across the full trajectory of their medical careers.  Find out more about the types of activities included and how it will be scheduled.   Stay tuned for other course and assessment spotlights.

Dr. Adam Peets was appointed as Assistant Dean, Clinical Education, MD Undergraduate Program, effective February 1, 2015 to June 30, 2018

Dr. Sandra-Jarvis Selinger has been appointed Associate Dean, Academic in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, effective June 15, 2015.  She will be stepping down from her roles as Assistant Dean, Faculty Development and Director of Curriculum Renewal, MD Undergraduate Program.

Dr. Mumtaz Virji  completed her 3-year term as Year 3 Chair on Feb 28; but continuing as Interim Year 3 Site Director, VFMP

From February 8 to February 12, 2016 the survey team from the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools (CACMS) will conduct the eight-year formal accreditation review of the MD Undergraduate Program (MDUP). The survey team, comprised of medical practitioners, basic science and clinical educators, educational researchers and administrators, will arrive in VFMP and will then fan out to the IMP, NMP and SMP to meet with faculty, staff and students in the MDUP.

Designated faculty and staff have written the content for the Data Collection Instrument (DCI) which is the narrative and evidence about the MDUP that will be provided to the survey team. Compiling the DCI is an iterative process and we continue to hone and edit so that it is as informative and accurate as possible.

Twelve Medical School Self-Study (MSS) subcommittees, chaired by the Department Heads and comprised of faculty, staff and students, have been steadily working since the beginning of the year to provide an arm’s length review of the DCI and the story it tells about the MDUP. Their final reports and recommendations are due at the end of June. These reports will then be synthesized by the MSS Steering Committee into an MSS Summary Report which will also be provided to the survey team.

The third component the survey team will look at is the Independent Student Analysis (ISA). In March 2015, the students conducted a comprehensive survey of all years across all program sites that included questions on student-faculty-administration relationships, learning environment, resources, student services and the medical education program. The final report, written by the students, will include the data collected, plus an analysis of their perceptions of the MDUP’s strengths, achievements and areas for improvement. Of note is that the response rate to the student survey exceeded all expectations – a testament to the enthusiasm and engagement of our students and a credit to their leadership.

The visiting survey team will review all of this documentation and the 2015 AFMC Graduation Questionnaire before they arrive. The purpose of the visit is to verify and update information in the DCI, clarify any issues that are unclear, view the environment and facilities for learning first-hand, and meet with administrators, faculty members, and students. The survey team will then make its report to CACMS on the MDUP’s compliance with each of the accreditation standards. CACMS then makes the determination on the MDUP’s accreditation status.

**Thanks to all who have contributed so far and please save the dates in your calendars – Monday 8 to Friday 12 February, 2016 – as you may be involved with or impacted by the site visit**

With graduation drawing near, we thought it would be interesting to meet some of this year’s VFMP graduates.  We asked them about themselves, their medical school experiences and what the future holds for them.

Elizabeth Hendren

What have you enjoyed the most about your MD Undergraduate experience?

The mentorship and teaching from residents and staff physicians has been unparalleled. From pathology small groups in first year to 4th year electives and career advice there has always been a doctor there to support us and show us the practical applications of what we were doing.

What has surprised or challenged you in medical school?

I was surprised by how talented my classmates are. I went to the spring gala in first year and was blown away at the skills of my peers who were also great athletes, volunteers, and wonderful people. It can be challenging in such a high achieving group of people to figure out where you fit in, and what you have that makes you special. For me, this made medical school a very meaningful personal experience where I was able to learn this about myself.

What advice would you offer to upcoming students in the UBC MD program?

Get involved! There are so many opportunities available that add depth to your MD experience. The great part is that they can involve a commitment anywhere from a few hours (attending a talk or suturing workshop at the MSAC) to all four years (Med Undergraduate Society, Global Health Initiative).

What’s next for you?

After 28 years of living in beautiful Vancouver, I’ve decided to make the move to Toronto where I will be studying Internal Medicine. Before I go, I’ll be getting married at the MSAC!

Georgina Martin

What have you enjoyed the most about your MD Undergraduate experience?

Having the privilege of caring for patients at some of the most critical times of their lives.

What has surprised or challenged you in medical school?

How much my clinical competency grew by the end of clerkship and beginning of fourth year.

What advice would you offer to upcoming students in the UBC MD program?

At first, the amount of material you have to learn seems daunting, but everything that will be ultimately important for you to know will be repeated enough throughout the training and will eventually become second nature.

What’s next for you?

I will be completing my residency in Pediatrics at the University of Saskatchewan.

Ben Miller

What have you enjoyed the most about your MD Undergraduate experience?

The opportunities that are available during Medical School are exceptional and humbling. The simple fact that even from day one you are able to interact with patients and have the privilege to play a role in their care is remarkable. Each year presented it’s own challenges and rewards so life was always dynamic and interesting. Some opportunities exist that I would have never considered previously. For example, I don’t have a single artistic skill and was always amazed by the talent in the Spring Gala, however this year I was able to perform on stage at the Chan Centre as an actor in the 4th year skit. It was the first (and likely last) time that I will perform in front of such a large audience as an actor, but a moment I will always cherish. Overall the MD undergraduate experience provided the opportunity to push the envelope both with clinically and personally.

What has surprised or challenged you in medical school?

I remember my first day of orientation week in first year and not knowing what to expect. I did not know many people entering Medical School but I was pleasantly surprised to meet so many interesting and diverse individuals. Prior to Medical School every single student had done something extraordinarily impressive and yet was exceptionally humble about it. The friendships that developed during the four years are ones that will last a lifetime.

The challenge aspect is an interesting one. I always felt supported at UBC but also felt pushed to excel as much as possible. I was challenged in a safe environment to push the boundaries of my knowledge, be resourceful, and learn to provide the best care for patients as possible. It was challenging but exceptionally rewarding.

What advice would you offer to upcoming students in the UBC MD program?

The four years that I spent at UBC Medical School were four of the most rewarding years of my life thus far. The combination of opportunities, privileges, and challenges that occur are like no other experience. The best advice I can provide is to enjoy it as much as possible. It is easy to get caught up in the madness and stress that can be felt, especially around exams and CaRMS, however stepping back and realizing that the only one applying pressure is yourself and enjoying the moment rather than stressing over it can make a huge difference. Be sure to take advantage of the opportunities to travel, to explore, to fail and learn from your mistakes, and remember how privileged you are to provide care for patients. Enjoying what you are learning about, trying to be the best you can for your patients, and enjoying the social aspects of school can make it feel l ike hardly any work at all and it will fly by.

What’s next for you?

I was fortunate enough to match to Emergency Medicine at Royal Columbian Hospital. I am looking forward to training in Emergency Medicine and will continue to pursue my interests in Wilderness Medicine and Sports Medicine with leaders in the field that practice at RCH.

Steven Pi

What have you enjoyed the most about your MD Undergraduate experience?

Medical school can be a daunting time. You will stay up longer than most people ever will in their lifetime, you will write exams with 10+ multiple-choice options, and you will have to juggle all of this with your personal lives. The good news is that you will never feel alone going through all of this. The collegiality and support from faculty, staff, and my colleagues have been nothing short of amazing. Believe it or not, medical school can actually become really fun when you feel like you’re going through this with a group of like-minded individuals. In addition, the faculty really does have your well being in mind. They’re always making themselves available and are checking in to see how things are going. The importance of feeling supported by your program is something that is often underemphasized and is something that I have definitely come to appreci ate looking back on my MD Undergraduate experience.

What has surprised or challenged you in medical school?

Quite honestly, there wasn’t a day where I didn’t feel challenged. You’re always finding yourself in different environments interacting with unique patients on a variety of different services. In the span of your clerkship, you’ll find yourself delivering babies, assisting in surgeries, and managing complex medical patients. You’ll find out how amazing it feels to hand a newborn baby to his or her mother, but you’ll also find out how it disheartening it feels to tell someone they have a terminal illness. You will, without a doubt, go through many challenges in medical school, but it is these challenges that will shape and prepare you for a career as a physician.

What advice would you offer to upcoming students in the UBC MD program?

I remember during my undergraduate years I use to think that getting into medical school was the end goal. As someone now graduating from the program, I’ve come to recognize that this couldn’t be further from the truth. Getting into medical school is the beginning of a commitment to become a lifelong learner. My advice to upcoming medical students would be to carefully consider whether spending the rest of your life as a learner is something that interests you. For me, the prospect of being able to spend my entire career pursuing knowledge that fascinates me is something that I am absolutely ecstatic for.

What’s next for you?

I’ve been fortunate enough to have been accepted into my first choice of residency – UBC Vancouver’s Internal Medicine Program.

Looking forward to seeing you on the wards one day!

Conner Forbes

What have you enjoyed the most about your MD Undergraduate experience?

My peers! Every member of the class has an incredible story and a multitude of hidden talents. From world-class sailors, to concert violinists, to mountain climbers, to Bhangra dancers, everyone has passions that fuel their journey through medicine. UBC’s faculty of medicine offers the right infrastructure for us as students to connect with either other through these passions. There are clubs and informal groups that celebrate our every medical and outside interests, and the Medical Student & Alumni Centre provides a readily available space for them. I’m grateful personally for the great friends I’ve made through the UBC Medical Journal, in the Creative Writing in Medicine group, and the Medical Student Government.

What has surprised or challenged you in medical school?

It’s no secret that the biggest challenge of medical school is the sheer number of hours that it takes to develop into an MD. There are always patients to see and reading to do, and the hospital never sleeps. But as long as we remember that we do it all for the patients, we can be pleasantly surprised by our own capacity.

What advice would you offer to upcoming students in the UBC MD program?

Keep following your passions! All things are applicable to medicine, and vice versa. As you go through medical school, keep up your sport, your art, and your friendships and you’ll be surprised at just how much they lend themselves to your budding practice of medicine.

What’s next for you?

I’m beyond excited to be taking my next steps at UBC’s Urology program in July. I’m looking forward to developing good clinical and surgical judgement, getting the chance to continue my research, and passing on what I’ve learned so far to the next generation of UBC medical students.

It is hard to believe we are coming to the end of yet another school year. The past months have been a flurry of activity in the Vancouver Fraser Medical Program. As we busily prepare for end-of-term activities, it is the perfect time to pause and reflect on the successes of the last few months.

First, I would like to extend my personal congratulations to the Class of 2015. This is an exciting time in your careers as you move into residency. Overall, we had great success in the 2015 CaRMS Match Day. 96% of our VFMP students matched in the first iteration, with over 30% of students choosing Family Medicine as their specialty; Internal Medicine also had a great showing with 18% of students matching there. I have no doubt that each of you will have much success in your future. Whether you are staying in British Columbia or moving elsewhere in Canada, I hope you will take with you fond memories of your time at UBC and, in particular, the VFMP.

We have also had some exciting accolades on the clinical faculty front of late. Dr. Linlea Armstrong (Medical Genetics) and Dr. Pawel Kindler (Cellular and Physiological Sciences) were honoured with the Canadian Medical Association’s Certificate of Merit Award for teaching . Each year, this award recognizes faculty members who have made a valuable contribution to medical education in our faculty. In addition, Dr. Sandra Jarvis-Selinger, Director of Curriculum in the MD Undergraduate Program, and Assistant Dean, Faculty Development, in the Department of Surgery received the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to Faculty Development in Canada. Congratulations to all – and sincere thanks for their dedication and commitment to medical education.

I do hope you enjoy reading through this spring’s newsletter and learning about the work of our students and faculty. Finally, please take the time to read the updates regarding Curriculum Renewal, Accreditation and leadership changes. It truly has been a great year for all of us. In the midst of the preparation for the launch of the renewed curriculum in August 2015, I hope you find some time to rejuvenate over the summer and come back for a great 2015/16 academic year.

Very best regards,

Dr. Amil Shah
MDCM, FRCPC, FACP
Regional Associate Dean, Vancouver Fraser
Clinical Professor, Medicine

Our students commonly engage in research projects. Programs such as the Faculty of Medicine Summer Student Research Program allow MD students to undertake directed projects and work alongside faculty mentors.

As part of our continuing work around #DaffodilMonth we caught up with Jane McLeod, a second year medical student, who took part in a project conducted at the B.C. Cancer Agency.

FOM: Can you describe the research project you were involved with last summer?

JM:  I worked with Dr. Ingledew at the BC Cancer Agency, Fraser Valley Centre (Surrey) to look at the quality of web-based resources for patients with liver cancers and to explore the resources used by these patients. Over the past six years, Dr. Ingledew and her research group at the UBC Center for Health Education Scholarship have explored the quality of online resources and the patterns of Internet use for patients with a range of cancers including melanoma, breast, lung, ovarian, endometrial, colorectal and now liver cancers. The project I participated in built on the work of this group and expanded the knowledge in this field. All of this work is meant to contribute to a larger area of research, helping to inform physicians so they may help their patients to better assess the quality of information on the Internet.

FOM: What did you find out about the search patterns of patients with liver cancer and how does this fit into the results of the research group?

Jane McLeod (second year MD student)

JM: We are continuing to collect surveys from last summer but preliminary results indicate that a large number of patients with liver cancer use the Internet to search for cancer related information. Their search patterns appear consistent with research from Dr. Ingledew’s prior studies where 80-90% of patients (e.g. melanoma, lung and breast cancer) use the Internet to search for information about their cancers. Cancer patients commonly seek information on treatment, screening and prognosis. Although for many patients the information on the Internet is overwhelming and at times difficult to understand, patients find that it helps to inform their encounters with physicians and their treatment decision-making.

FOM: What did you learn about the quality of information available to patients with cancer?

JM: Not surprisingly there is a large variation in the quality of the information on the Internet. With respect to liver cancers, most websites (87-92%) contained information about treatment, risk factors, and symptoms, however only 30% provided information about prognosis and less than half described prevention. Additionally, less than half of websites cited their sources of information and only 28% identified who had written the material. Most concerning, only half of websites provided completely accurate treatment information and only 7% contained accurate prognosis values.

These findings are consistent with Dr. Ingledew’s past research. Across all the cancers their research group has examined thus far there have been consistent deficiencies in the quality of online resources. For many websites it is difficult to know whom wrote/authored the websites or what their area of expertise (or lack of it) is. As a result it is hard for patients to assess the “credibility” of the websites. A significant number of websites contain inaccurate information that may even conflict with advice given by their physicians. Additionally websites may not be comprehensive, and often lack information relevant to an individual’s prognosis or treatment. This is concerning as patients have noted this is the information they feel they need the most. Finally, the average reading level of many websites is high. As a result, some websites are written at a university level with considerable “medical jargon” making it difficult for the average patient to understand.

FOM: If the quality of websites is so variable how can physicians assist their patients?

JM: Unlike some other health disciplines, there has been little attention paid to training physicians during medical school and residencies with respect best principles of patient education. Even more so, there is a lack of education given to physicians to aid them in the interpretation and translation of web-based information. The research I participated in, and lead by Dr. Ingledew’s group, is looking to inform ways that physicians can evaluate the quality of web-based patient information and interact with their patients with respect to these resources. Through the research, their group has developed a rating tool that can be used both physicians and patients to assess the qualities of web-based resources. While the tool is quite detailed, it helps to highlight some general areas that both patients and physicians can use to assess at quality of web-based resources. We hope that this information will ultimately help to empower patients and improve patient and physician interactions.

As a final note, obviously, the best resource for obtaining information about any diagnosis or treatment is a physician. However, if patients do decide to research information online, having a critical eye for the resources is important. Physicians and patients can and should work together to learn how to assess resources better.

FOM: What was the most important thing you took away from your research this past summer?

JM: This summer research project was an exciting opportunity and exposed me to new areas of medicine, including oncology and medical education research. It reaffirmed to me that one can balance a clinical career and research, which are both equally helpful to patients. I hope to continue incorporating these skills into my training, as I believe research supports better understanding among clinicians and fosters new practices to improve the wellbeing of patients. This summer I will return to Dr. Ingledew’s group to complete some more analysis!