Effective September 1st, 2020, Dr. David Butcher assumed the Medical Lead, Family Practice, Lady Minto Hospital role. Dr. Butcher is taking on this new role while also continuing at the Health Authority Medical Advisory Committee Chair which he has held since April 2019.
Getting to know Dr. David Butcher.
Where did you complete medical school and residency?
- University of British Columbia, 1985
- Dalhousie University, 1986 (rotating internship)
- University of British Columbia, 1990 (GP / anesthesia)
Why did you choose your field of speciality?
I chose Family Medicine because it gave me the opportunity to practice many different branches of medicine simultaneously, including as a part time anesthetist. I chose rural medicine because I enjoyed both the rural lifestyle and the ability to practice front line hospital medicine at the same time as building relationships with my own patients.
What is most meaningful to you about practicing medicine?
I am grateful to be able to build relationships with my patients and to be trusted to assist them during difficult times.
What are your professional interests and notable achievements?
I have taken on a variety of leadership roles at the local, provincial/territorial/ and national levels. I have particularly enjoyed acting as a quality and standards consultant for hospitals and healthcare systems internationally through work with Accreditation Canada
What are your hopes for the future of healthcare?
I hope that we can develop true team based care with patients not only as partners but as the drivers of their own healthcare. I hope that we can use information technology to enable data and evidence informed decision making at all levels from patient/provider interactions to system design.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
- I am an avid amateur musician with a focus on classical chamber and orchestral music
- I enjoy outdoor pursuits and am part of the ‘doc on the mountain’ team for Mt Washington