Personalizing Cardiovascular & Respiratory Health

Schematic of lungs, heart and chest

Cardiovascular and respiratory diseases account for a significant proportion of global morbidity and mortality, placing an immense burden on healthcare systems and economies in Quebec, across Canada, and worldwide. At 91˿Ƶ, pioneering research in this field enables the development of innovative treatments and preventive strategies, significantly improving patient outcomes and quality of life. By exploring the molecular, genetic, and clinical aspects of cardiovascular and respiratory health, our research contributes to shaping precision medicine approaches, facilitating early detection, and driving advancements in personalized therapies.

MDCM cohort in a room
Iris Boudier 11 Sep 2024

On August 20, 2024, the Faculties of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Dental Medicine and Oral Sciences, celebrated a historic moment as 249 medical students – 211 in Montreal and 38 in Gatineau – started their program.

249 new medical students and 40 dental students gathered at New Residence Hall to begin a three-day orientation, marking the start of their journey as the Class of 2028. This year’s medicine cohort includes 211 students at the Montreal Campus and 38 students at Campus Outaouais, making it the largest group ever admitted. 

Orientation activities began with a warm welcome from prominent faculty members. Lesley Fellows, MDCM, DPhil, Vice-President (Health Affairs) and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Elham Emami, D.D.S., Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Sciences, Mélanie Mondou, MDCM, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Medical Education, and Danyèle Lacombe, MD, Vice Dean and Director of Campus Outaouais, greeted the new students.  

Physicianship and Fellows

The orientation program featured a detailed introduction to the MDCM curriculum, with a focus on Physicianship on Day 3. Students met their Osler Fellows, who will mentor them throughout their four-year program. This year’s Osler Fellowship program includes 34 fellows, 9 of whom are returning, supported by 64 Med-3 student co-leaders. 

Annick Gauthier, MDCM, Assistant Professor in the Department of Family Medicine, a family physician at St Mary’s Hospital Center and returning Osler Fellow, highlighted the importance of mentorship. “Being an Osler Fellow for the second time is a privilege. It’s crucial to create a safe space for students through both individual meetings and group discussions on their chosen topics,” Dr. Gauthier said. 

Roberta Shear, MDCM, Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and obstetrician-gynecologist at the Jewish General Hospital, also underscored the significance of the role. “As an Osler Fellow I have the opportunity to guide and support our incoming students, offering them insight into Physicianship. It’s an honour to share the knowledge I’ve accumulated over 25 years of practice,” Dr. Shear noted. 

Welcome to the MDCM Class of 2028!