SUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. — For Summerside doctor Nadine Arsenault-Samson, family medicine is the way she can profoundly improve the lives and outcomes of people in her care.
Doctor Day, which is recognized on May 19 each year, is a chance to celebrate family physicians and the important work they do caring for and improving the health and well-being of their patients.
Arsenault-Samson said as a family doctor she develops a close professional and personal connection with patients, which can be somewhat different from that of a specialist who looks after a particular area like the heart or the lungs or is asked to address a specific health challenge.
She said a big part of her job is supporting patients in both sickness and health.
“The big piece is that a family physician provides continuity and comprehensive care for their patients. Even in just 13 years of practice, I have worked with families that I follow through generations. It’s a privileged role that a family doctor has in a patient’s life.”
- Nadine Arsenault-Samson
“We become the patient’s advocate in the system and collaborate with other professionals. The continuity and broader perspective we offer is very valuable in helping someone monitor their health.”
Arsenault-Samson said she and her colleagues bring a great deal of education and experience to their work and take responsibility for the medical care of patients, ensuring follow-up and transition in care.
She said her work lets her use the wide-ranging interests she developed as a medical student.
“The big piece is that a family physician provides continuity and comprehensive care for their patients. Even in just 13 years of practice, I have worked with families that I follow through generations. It’s a privileged role that a family doctor has in a patient’s life.”
