Last week, we learned of the sudden death of Dr. Jennifer Oates, a valued colleague and friend.
Jennifer was a bright light in our medical community, and we all knew her in different ways.
As a psychiatrist, Jennifer’s concern for her patients came through in the diligence of her care: Her clinical approach was a master class in clarity and thoroughness. To read one of Jennifer’s consults was to truly know the patient.
Administratively, Jennifer’s contributions were many. From the South Island FEI Working Group to the IHealth Regional Council, her voice was strong, passionate, and thoughtful, and advocated for all South Island physicians. Jennifer’s work in Physician Quality Improvement was particularly significant: She was such an advocate for incorporating the patient voice in quality improvement work, a legacy that will make a continued impact on the care that is provided every day at our hospitals.
Jennifer’s obituary is available online, and a service in celebration of her life will be held on Wednesday, August 16th at 1 pm at McCall Gardens (4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria).
Additionally, the South Island MSA hopes you will feel welcome to join a gathering in remembrance of Dr. Jennifer Oates on Thursday, August 24th, between 5:30 and 6:30 pm. All healthcare team members are welcome. We’ll meet in person at Victoria General Hospital in Lecture Hall S263 to come together as a community. A virtual viewing option will be available at Royal Jubilee Hospital in PCC 150, as well as online here.
The sudden nature of Jennifer’s passing hits particularly hard. The Physician Health Program has offered their services to support your individual needs (they are available 24/7 at 1.800.663.6729). You can also connect with our Greater Victoria Peer Support Program to talk with a local physician colleague.
If you’d like to share a story or thoughts about Jennifer, please comment on this post. We’ll collect these to share with her family.
Please take care of yourselves and of each other.
– The South Island MSA Executive: Dr. Catherine Jenkins, Dr. Fred Voon, Dr. Krystal Cullen, Dr. Suresh Tulsiani, Dr. Alicia Power, Dr. Alex Hoechsmann, Dr. Richard Reid