A family physician based in Prince George is being put in the spotlight once more for contributing valuable educational methods and changing the ‘landscape of Indigenous Health in Canada.’
This morning (April 12), Dr. Terri Aldred was announced by Resident Doctors of Canada (RDoC) as one of five recipients for its annual awards that recognize those enriching the lives of future professionals in areas of wellness, medical education and service.
She’s the outreach primary doctor for Carrier Sekani Family Services and Site Director for UBC’s Indigenous Family Practice Program, which caters to 12 Indigenous communities across northern B.C.
Dr. Aldred also recently took on a new role as the Medical Director for Primary Care for the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA).
Her honour is in the medical education category, the RDoC Mikhael Award, as she’s continued to provide insight to those wanting to work in Indigenous health at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
“Dr. Aldred supports her resident peers in so many ways, and we’re excited to be able to recognize this support today,” says Dr. Esther Kim, President of the RDoC, which is a non-profit organization that represents more than 10,000 resident doctors in the country.
“As RDoC works to create the best possible training experience for residents, it is important to recognize and celebrate the achievements of those who are finding and seizing opportunities to better the lives and careers of residents.”
Through her teachings, Dr. Aldred is known for mentoring on the practices of providing culturally safe care to Indigenous peoples, their families and communities, while also exploring the historical, sociodemographic and political contexts of health.
“She helps residents to build strong relationships with these communities while demonstrating respect for their cultures,” the RDoC adds in a profile of Dr. Aldred.
“In 2019, Dr. Aldred developed the BC Indigenous Medical Education Gathering, a network of current and future physicians dedicated to improving Indigenous health in the province.”
Dr. Aldred is Dakelh from Tl’Azt’En on her mom’s side and mixed European and Metis Cree on my dad’s side, a member of the Lysiloo (Frog) Clan, traditionally known as the voice of the people.
This award is the latest of an extensive résumé that includes:
- 2018 = BC College of Family Physicians’ (BCCFP) First Five Years of Practice Award
- 2013 = John J. Zack Award for Excellence in Family Practice
- 2010 = Darcy Tailfeathers Memorial Award in Medicine
She is sharing the RDoC Mikhael Award announced today with Dr. Malika Ladha of the University of Calgary.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions on organized public gatherings, Dr. Aldred is set to participate in a virtual reception hosted by the RDoC on May 20, 2021.
