Today (Jan. 30) marks the final day for Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kelsey Louie at FNHA as he moves into a new position with the Doctors of BC.
This transition provides an important opportunity to raise our hands in gratitude and acknowledge Dr. Kelsey's profound contributions to our organization.
Over the past eight years, Dr. Kelsey has supported the OCMO as Medical Officer, Senior Medical Officer and Deputy Chief Medical Officer. As a wellness champion and primary care provider, he has supported First Nations communities across BC through both hospital-based care and virtual health services, including the First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day program.
Dr. Kelsey shared a few words about his time at FNHA:
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Chief Medical Officers I've served under—Dr. Evan, Dr. Shannon, and Dr. Nel. Their leadership and mentorship have been the cornerstone of my growth, and the lessons I've learned from them will guide me for years to come. Being part of this organization has been the most significant chapter of my professional life. As I prepare to transition to a new endeavor, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we have shared. This has been more than a workplace; it has been a home where I have had the privilege to listen, learn, and grow alongside all of you. Our collective efforts to listen, understand, and bring voice to First Nations interests and visibility within the healthcare system have been deeply meaningful."
Dr. Kelsey says he is leaving FNHA with a “heart full of hope" for the future of this organization and the communities we serve.
“Thank you for letting me be a part of this story. čɛt̓ᶿəm kʷʊnomɛ (I will see you again)."
FNHA Chief Medical Officer Dr. Nel Wieman acknowledged Dr. Kelsey's immense impact and congratulated him on this next step in his professional career.
“Now as a leader in the provincial health system, Dr. Kelsey will continue to advance system transformation and positive health outcomes for First Nations people in BC. With Dr. Kelsey and Doctors of BC as a partner, OCMO will strengthen our work toward our vision of Healthy, Self-Determining and Vibrant BC First Nations Children, Families and Communities."
