We are fortunate in BC to have medical pioneers who have made significant contributions to medicine and the delivery of patient care. Recently, two such BC pioneers were honoured with an appointment to the Order of Canada. Dr Joanne Sullivan Douglas, for her work in making childbirth safer, and Dr Julio Montaner for forging a new path for the care and treat people with HIV/AIDS.
“We are always pleased to see BC doctors recognized for their work,” says Doctors of BC President Dr Bill Cavers. “It’s reinforces how we as physicians really can make a meaningful difference.”
Dr Joanne Sullivan Douglas was appointed Member of the Order of Canada for her contributions to the profession of obstetrical anesthesia, which have helped make childbirth safer for both women and newborns. Dr. Douglas’ work spans over 35 years and has helped ensure the safe delivery of many BC babies.
Internationally recognized as a leading expert in the treatment, care and prevention of AIDS/HIV, Dr. Montaner was appointed Officer of the Order of Canada. Dr. Montaner has often received recognition for his work. In fact, Health Minister Terry Lake recently said “Nobody in Canada has made a bigger contribution to the field of HIV/AIDS research and treatment than Dr. Julio Montaner”.
Among his achievements is highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), which is now considered the global gold standard for treatment of HIV. He also pioneered Treatment as Prevention, a strategy that continues to be adopted in many places around the world. This year, Dr Montaner will also be inducted into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame.
Doctors of BC wishes to congratulate Drs Douglas and Montaner for their outstanding contributions and for improving the lives of so many both in BC and the world.