An Orillia doctor has been named the region’s Family Physician of the Year by the Ontario College of Family Physicians.
The college recently informed Kim McIntosh she was one of seven physicians in the province to earn the accolade for her contributions to primary care.
“I was thrilled, touched, honoured. It felt really special,” McIntosh said. “I see what incredible work is being done across the province in primary care and how innovative doctors have been in caring for patients.”
It’s particularly special to be recognized during a global pandemic, she said, noting many physicians have made “huge contributions and sacrifices” in an effort to maintain quality care for patients while adapting in an ever-changing health-care environment.
“To receive this award knowing we’re coming through one of the most challenging times in our society’s experience — it feels like the above-and-beyond award,” McIntosh said.
What a wonderful recipient! Team leader of Vaccination Centre and Assessment Centre during COVID, Ontario Health Team champion and, oh yes...Family Physician.
— Steve Clarke (@Clarke4Orillia) July 14, 2021
Congratulations Dr. Kim! Our community is that much better with your wonderful effort and attitude.@cityoforillia https://t.co/S8WZnI23a3
She acknowledged she isn’t the only one who is going above and beyond. It’s been a combined effort across many areas of the health-care system.
“I lean on an exceptional team,” she said of everyone from the nurses and receptionists she works with at the Couchiching Family Health Team to the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, County of Simcoe Paramedic Services and the Couchiching Ontario Health Team, for which she is physician lead. “Everyone does their part and we’ve all moved as a team.”
“My efforts are their efforts — our efforts,” she added. “It’s really special to be recognized, but I am one of many family docs in this area and province who have dug in to provide good care and meet new demands in a pandemic to serve their patients.”
She also praised the community as a whole.
“Our community has been hugely supportive of our efforts and patient with us,” she said.
McIntosh was nominated for the award by Nancy Merrow, chief of staff at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. The award recognizes her as Family Physician of the Year for Region 6 (central east and north Simcoe-Muskoka).
McIntosh and the other recipients will be honoured at a virtual awards ceremony in November during the college’s Family Medicine Forum conference.
