Page 1 of 5

*Sent on behalf of Dr. Sharon Straus*

This is a very difficult note to write as it’s my last in the role as PIC. I am incredibly grateful to each of you for your support, commitment and collegiality during my tenure as PIC.  You are an inspiring group and it has been a gift to work with and learn from you. We have laughed and cried together over the years and throughout the various challenges and opportunities we faced, you continued to care for each other, the patients, learners and health care teams.

You have been innovative – you created new education initiatives and models of care, further enhanced the high quality patient care we provide, and made new research discoveries to strengthen our health system and improve patient care and public wellbeing. You inspired others including the learners and health care teams, centering patients in all activities. You have been amazing role models to all those you encountered. Thank you.

Particular thanks to the Site Directors, Rotation Coordinators, Education Coordinators, the Education Committee, and Residency Training Committee for your exemplary work with the learners. Thanks also to our outstanding Division Heads who grew our Divisions and ensured our clinical and academic success. You consistently created a welcoming and caring environment and I appreciate your wise counsel and support over the years. Thanks to SMPA leadership and staff for keeping us on strong financial ground and for your commitment to equity and transparency. Thanks to all of the physician admins who kept us running smoothly and ensured excellent patient care.

I am incredibly grateful to Julia and Jessica who have been amazing partners in all of the Departmental work; there are no words adequate to describe their impact. Their commitment to our DOM family and ensuring its success are phenomenal.

Finally, huge thanks to Natalie and Andrew for stepping into their interim roles. I know that they will provide outstanding leadership for us and that they can count on each of you for support. They are bringing innovative, caring, thoughtful and inspirational leadership and we are fortunate to have them in these roles! I am also grateful to them for allowing me to continue as a member of the DOM family – it is a massive privilege to continue to be a part of this community and I remain committed to all of the values and actions of our DOM. 

Thank you and please let me know how best I can support you in future, as I step into the new role.

Sharon

Please see below for the following updates:

1. Exemptions for Epic Systems training opening Sept. 3 and other important updates
2. Epic Go-Live New Hire/Transfer Pause: Nov. 23 to Dec. 6
3. Epic Essentials
4. Impact to Biochemistry Lab testing at St. Michael's