Change is in the air at the Society of Rural Physicians of Canada (SRPC). At our Annual General Meeting on April 19th, during the Rural and Remote Medicine course in Edmonton, we welcomed Dr. Gavin Parker into the role of President. Before we explore Dr. Parker's vision for the future, let's take a moment to honor the remarkable contributions of Dr. Sarah Lespérance during her tenure.

Dr. Lespérance brought invaluable expertise and dedication to the SRPC. Under her leadership, our organization flourished, advancing critical initiatives and strengthening our commitment to rural healthcare. From securing funding for rural healthcare training, to advocating against proposed changes to medical education, to hosting a National Summit on Equitable Access to Medical Transport in Rural Canada, Dr. Lespérance's impact on the SRPC was profound.

As we express our gratitude to Dr. Lesperance for her unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, we acknowledge and value the extensive impact she has had on our organization's growth and success.

As we transition to new leadership, we are excited to welcome Dr. Gavin Parker as our new President. With his leadership abilities and passion for rural healthcare, we are confident that Dr. Parker will build upon our successes and lead the SRPC to new heights.

Dr. Gavin Parker is a full-scope rural family physician practicing in Pincher Creek, Alberta. He has chaired numerous national medical educational conferences, has obtained an M.Sc. in medical education, and is the board chair of the Alberta Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP). He serves his community through positions such as medical director for the visitor safety program in Waterton Lakes, the Pincher Creek Health Centre Medical Director, and he and his wife Jennifer run the Barracuda Judo club in town. He is the father of three wonderful children and husband to his even more wonderful wife Jennifer. Join us in extending a heartfelt thank to Dr. Lespérance and a warm welcome to Dr. Parker as we embark on this next chapter. Together, we will continue to advocate for excellent healthcare close to home for all rural Canadians.

Stay tuned for updates and initiatives as we work towards our shared vision of a healthier, more resilient rural healthcare system.

Warm regards,

The SRPC Team