About Us
Demonstrated Leadership in Family Medicine
Widely regarded as the birthplace of family medicine in Canada, Western continues to provide leadership in the discipline to this day. Our vision involves enhancing and promoting Family Medicine that excels in patient-centred care, scholarly activity and leadership for healthier communities.
Family Medicine at Western started in 1966 with two teaching sites: Victoria Family Medical Centre and St. Joseph's Family Medical Centre. Byron and Southwest Middlesex Health Centre were added in 1978.
Dr. Ian McWhinney was the first Chair of Family Medicine at Western, presiding over the department for 20 years. He received the Order of Canada (the highest civilian honour in the country) for his pioneering work in evolving and shaping the discipline of Family Medicine.
Dr. Brian Hennen succeeded Dr. McWhinney and continued in that capacity for 10 years before accepting the appointment of Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Manitoba in 1999. He was the first family physician to be appointed Dean of a Canadian Medical school.
Today we continue to be dedicated to investing in this area of strength through strategic initiatives that will make an impact in the Department and ultimately, optimize the delivery of health care throughout our communities.
