Celebrating Canadian Women Physicians Day

On Canadian Women Physicians Day, we acknowledge the achievements, dedication, and resilience of women physicians who continue to make significant impacts in healthcare. It is also a chance to reflect on the progress made in achieving gender equality within the medical profession and to advocate for further advancements.

Today, we are featuring Dr. Christine DeJong, Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Joseph Brant Hospital (JBH). She shares her journey in obstetrics and gynecology, her advice for women looking to pursue a career in medicine and find work-life balance, and her 25-year service milestone at JBH.

“My decision to pursue a career in medicine came gradually, in stages, as there were very few role models in my family and community with advanced degrees. As a medical student, I was drawn to obstetrics and gynecology in large part due to my excitement with the miracle of birth.”

When Dr. DeJong began her career at JBH, there were only a couple of female surgeons and one female obstetrician. Now, female physicians dominate the specialty. Balancing the demands of a medical career with personal life can be particularly challenging, but Dr. DeJong states the importance of finding personal and professional support.

“In my case, the most important factor in balancing life, family and work has been to have a supportive life partner, my husband Michael. This was true especially when my three children were little. It is also essential to have a wonderful group of colleagues like our fantastic OBGYN team at JBH. We cover each other for life events or illness and are always there to help out with challenging cases.”

Although there continue to be challenges for women looking to pursue a career in medicine, she encourages them to follow their dreams.

“I cannot think of a more gratifying profession. When considering a specialty, choose what you love. The logistics will fall into place.”

This year, Dr. DeJong will be celebrating a 25-year milestone at JBH. She has had the honour of working with thousands of mothers and has witnessed the birth of upwards of 7,000 newborns.

“It has been my privilege to care for patients and families at a vulnerable and extremely special time in their lives.”

To Dr. Dejong and all the Canadian female physicians, thank you for your leadership, your advocacy, and your invaluable contributions to healthcare. Today, we celebrate you and the impact you make every single day.