There is something new and exciting happening in physician health these days – groups of Physicians Advocating Wellness (PAW groups) are getting together in various communities around the province.

But how did these grassroots groups come together?

Dr. Laura Kelly’s embrace of physician wellness began, sadly, after a doctor colleague in her community of Maple Ridge committed suicide several years ago. A short time after that tragedy, Dr. Kelly, who spends half her time as an ER physician and the balance in a family practice, had the opportunity to meet Dr. Paul Farnan, former executive director of the Physician Health Program. He wanted to launch a network of groups to deal specifically with physician health and wellness in local communities throughout the province.