We asked Dr. Heaslip as few questions to get to know her, here is what she had to say.
Where did you complete medical school and residency?
I completed medical school at McMaster University. Then, I completed my residency at the University of British Columbia (St. Paul's Hospital site, Family Medicine program).
Why did you choose your field of specialty?
I chose family medicine as I wanted the opportunity to work with people at different ages and stages of life in order to be able to build relationships with the patients and communities I work with. In the early days of practicing, the communities I served were impacted by the opioid overdose crisis at unprecedented rates. This brought me to focus on addiction medicine in my work today.
What is most meaningful to you about practicing medicine?
Being able to practice medicine is a huge honour. The most meaningful part of my work is the relationships that medicine has allowed me to form - with patients, with colleagues, and with the communities I serve. Medicine is a window into some of the most beautiful and the most challenging moments of patients' lives, and I feel honoured to have the chance to walk alongside patients through these moments.
What are your professional interests and notable achievements?
Professionally I am most interested in the intersections of public health, addiction medicine and primary care. I have a strong passion for palliative care as well. I am particularly interested in working with communities that have faced barriers to care, including working with patients who are experiencing homelessness, mental health and substance use concerns, and or poverty. I hold a Masters of Public Health from the University of Toronto and am working on doctoral studies through the University of British Columbia. I am a certificant with the International Society of Addiction Medicine.
What are your hopes for the future of healthcare?
My hope for health care is that we are able as a community to re-value primary care and the ways in which we work together in our healthcare system to best serve patients and ourselves. Having a focus that allows us to emphasize preventative care and preserve our tertiary/acute care services for those who most need them is a transformation that I am hopeful for and am constantly working towards re-imagining.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I am a mom of two and enjoy every moment I get with my kids. I am an avid cyclist, love to run and hike with my dog, and enjoy savouring a picnic on the beach whenever we get the chance to.
Is there anything else you would like us to share?
I can think of nothing else than a deep gratitude for the work that my colleagues do, and I feel inspired by daily.