CANADA, April 29 - May 1 is National Physicians Day. On this day, we honour the leadership, service, and tireless work of physicians on Prince Edward Island. In the face of the now two-year-old pandemic, physicians have proven time and again to be selfless, courageous, and strong at a time when we need them most.

“Our physicians have provided terrific leadership and compassionate care at a time of great stress and risk for health care workers. PEI’s health system has been able to depend on the dedication and care Island doctors deliver.”

-Minister of Health and Wellness, Ernie Hudson

May 1 was chosen by the Canadian Medical Association in recognition of Dr. Emily Stowe, the first female physician to practice in Canada, born on May 1, 1831. Dr. Stowe’s career as a healer, educator, leader, and activist for change make her an ideal model for all physicians to aspire to.

“We have seen physicians answer the call in the last two years like never before,” said Dr. Katherine McNally, Chief Medical Officer for Health PEI. “Whether it is in acute care, family medicine clinics and patient medical homes, long-term care, operating rooms, or any of the other hundreds of settings where physicians provide care, they have demonstrated competency, dedication, and compassion.  Everyone at Health PEI wishes to express their gratitude to all physicians.”

Today, the Department of Health and Wellness and Health PEI celebrate the inspiration and hope physicians provide. Happy National Physicians Day.   Media Contact: Everton McLean Chief Communications Officer 902-213-1507 emclean@gov.pe.ca