Dr. William Gary Smith of Orillia receives CPSO Council Award

Toronto — On Thursday, May 25, 2017 the Council of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario will present the Council Award to Dr. W. Gary Smith of Orillia, Ontario.

Dr. Smith is a nationally recognized authority on pediatric medicine. In a career that has spanned almost 40 years, Dr. Smith has served the Orillia region as pediatric consultant, as Chief of Pediatric and Neonatal Medicine and the Family and Community Program Medical Director at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, as a researcher, teacher and in countless other leadership positions.

The Council Award is presented four times a year to physicians who have demonstrated excellence in the eight physician roles identified as the essential qualities needed to practise modern medicine. Together, these roles create a model for the ideal physician. Further details on the Council Award can be found in the attached backgrounder.

Dr. Smith was the driving force behind the development of a regional clinic model in which pediatricians work with allied health care professionals to manage numerous chronic conditions within the local community. Thanks to his vision, Orillia and the surrounding region boast pediatric multi-discipline teams in diabetes, eating disorders, developmental disabilities and assessments, sexual assault and child abuse, and a neo-natal follow-up clinic. Orillia’s maternal, child and youth program is an acknowledged centre of excellence for pediatric patient care, academics, research and training.

Dr. Smith’s original research has covered a broad range of pediatric issues including asthma, diabetes in First Nations children, congenital heart disease, and sexual assault.  In almost every instance, his research has led to new standards in care and system management.

At the provincial level, Dr. Smith has served on numerous health care committees and organizations such as the Provincial Council for Children’s Health, the Provincial Council for Maternal, Newborn, Child and Youth Health, and the local LHIN where he helped to establish a regional pediatric, neonatal and maternal strategy.

“Dr. Smith is more than an accomplished physician,” said College President, Dr. David Rouselle. “He is a visionary leader who has spent his entire career advancing new ideas and seeking out the best way to help his patients and the community. He is the very essence of the ideal physician and the College Council is proud to recognize him with this award.”

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario is the licensing and regulatory body governing the practice of medicine in Ontario.

Contact:    
Tracey Sobers
416-967-2600 ext. 402