Meet the Chief Residents
Dr. Abdullah Haroon, Chief Resident, London (Urban) Stream, Department of Family Medicine
Where were you born and raised?
I was born and raised in Pakistan. When I was 16 years old, I moved with my family to Oakville, Ontario, where I completed my high school studies.
Where do you practice medicine and in what scope?
My home site is at St. Joseph’s Family Medical and Dental Centre in London. I practice comprehensive office-based family medicine as well as do weekly visits to long-term care homes throughout the city.
Why did you choose to pursue Postgraduate education in the Department of Family Medicine at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry?
I chose Western’s Family Medicine program for several reasons. During my clerkship, I had the opportunity to work with a preceptor who was a Western family medicine alumna, and I was impressed by the nurturing team environment focused on fostering wellness, compassion, inclusivity, and diversity. I was particularly drawn to the program’s commitment to residents’ success through its flexible curriculum and mentorship opportunities, as well as its dedication to incorporating resident feedback for continuous improvement. Additionally, as someone who loves green spaces, I was excited about the prospect of living in London – the Forest City – enjoying its beautiful nature with my wife and achieving an optimal sense of work-life balance.
Can you tell me about your experience in the program?
I truly believe that Western’s Family Medicine residency program is a hidden gem. The main highlight of my experience has been being surrounded by a caring, authentic, and collegial group of people who are genuinely invested in our growth and success as trainees and soon-to-be independent physicians. Whether you are aiming for an academic or community-focused career, the program offers clinical placements, extracurricular activities, and leadership opportunities that cater to your individual needs. The administrative staff in the Family Medicine office have been very responsive, doing their best to help me find the clinical electives I want to pursue. The longitudinal mentorship program, where each resident is paired with the same faculty advisor throughout their training, has been invaluable for receiving personalized guidance. In summary, Western has a robust family medicine program with a positive and welcoming atmosphere where I have truly felt a sense of belonging. London is also a fantastic city, featuring a beautiful river, accessible parks, and a vibrant multicultural community.
What has been your greatest experience to date in your study?
My greatest experience to date in my studies has been discovering my passion for palliative care. I appreciate the holistic approach that palliative care offers, transcending traditional pharmacological and algorithmic medicine to connect deeply with patients and their families. I am incredibly grateful for the supportive mentors and supervisors who have guided me, helping me set the stage for success in pursuing this path. Their encouragement, along with my enjoyment of teamwork and collaboration, has further solidified my commitment to providing comprehensive and empathetic care.
What has been your greatest challenge?
Bearing witness to how patient care throughout our province and country is impacted by bureaucratic red tape, systemic inefficiencies, physician shortages, and increased wait times for referrals and investigations. I deeply empathize with my patients and their families as I hear their frustrations and concerns, and at times, I have felt powerless in the face of such overwhelming issues. However, through conversations with my colleagues, mentors, and supervisors, I have realized that I am not alone in experiencing these feelings of moral distress. This recognition inspires me to do my best within the constraints of the system while actively seeking leadership and advocacy opportunities to drive much-needed systemic change.
What inspires you in your work?
The opportunity to wake up each day and help people during their most vulnerable moments is an honor and privilege I truly cherish. I am inspired by the heartfelt appreciation I receive from patients and their families, as well as the support of empathetic and caring colleagues. Being part of a highly collaborative team motivates me to strive for excellence, pushing me to become a better version of myself and provide the best possible care each day.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In ten years, I envision myself in an academic hospital-based practice specializing in palliative care, where I can significantly enhance patients’ quality of life. I aim to teach medical students and residents, helping shape the next generation of healthcare professionals. Additionally, I hope to take on leadership and administrative roles that influence policy and improve palliative care practices, ensuring that compassionate, patient-centered care remains a priority. Outside of work, I hope to have traveled many places around the world and formed new friendships along the way.
What special interests or hobbies do you have?
Outside of medicine, I am passionate about adventure and thrill-seeking activities. I love visiting theme parks, where the excitement of roller coasters and water slides gets my adrenaline pumping. Hiking and exploring nature are also significant interests of mine; I take great pleasure in discovering the beauty of mountains, lakes, and forests. Additionally, by immersing myself in new towns, cultures, and cuisines, I strive to expand my horizons and perspectives on the world. Equally important to me is spending quality time with my loved ones, including my wife, family and my adorable Cockapoo, Milo. Prioritizing these moments helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance, allowing me to recharge and bring my best self to both my personal and professional commitments.
Dr. Mohmeet Singh Brar, Chief Resident, Rural/Regional, Department of Family Medicine
Where were you born and raised?
I was born and raised in a small village in Northern India and come from a family of farmers. I did my Medical School and Internal Medicine Residency in India. After practicing for a few years, I moved to Canada.
Where do you practice medicine and in what scope?
I am based at a rural site, Goderich, which is known as the Prettiest town in Canada. I practice full scope of Family Medicine with special interest in Emergency Medicine and Hospitalist. Along with those, I also do Clinics, Ob and deliveries, Anaesthesia and Palliative Care.
Why did you choose to pursue Postgraduate education in the Department of Family Medicine at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry?
I was fascinated by the program description from the first day. After I matched into the program, I felt that this was the best decision.
The intensity of the program helps to enrich your learning, and it is a great opportunity to work under the aegis of great Preceptor and other academicians. It is a coordinated effort of the full team including fellow residents and administrative staff that makes the working environment collegial and supports you in your learning. The teaching is good and the 1:1 support that you get from your academic preceptor helps you in tailoring your learning according to your strengths and career goals.
Can you tell me about your experience in the program?
My experience here has been amazing. I felt so welcomed and Western is now home. I have made some lifelong friends and have always been treated with love and respect, both by the faculty and my fellow residents. The mentoring provided by my Preceptors has helped me in defining my career goals and to work towards them.
Being a Chief Resident, I was able to sit in the various PG meetings, where I was able to contribute to the decision making of the program and be a voice of your fellow residents.
What has been your greatest experience to date in your study?
The ability to tailor my learning towards my weak points and focus my career goals towards has been the best experience. I have been able to identify the areas that I need to work on and always look forward to sharing with my preceptor to get their valuable feedback and suggestions.
What has been your greatest challenge?
Moving from BC to Ontario presented a challenge in the beginning with new surroundings and people, however, the transition was very smooth both personally and professionally. Now Ontario is my home, and I wish to practice in Ontario with keeping my focus on the rural areas because my base site gave me a great exposure and I could realise the needs of the native population and how to cater to them. Family Medicine in itself can be challenging sometimes because the program is very intense itself to make sure that by the end of residency you master the skills necessary and can better deliver your services as a healthcare provider.
What inspires you in your work?
I have always seen myself as someone who is ready to help and guide. As a healthcare provider and working with such a diverse patient population I have been able to advocate for good health and contribute as much as I can in their good health and identify the resources and make them accessible to them.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
10 years down the line, I see myself practising full scope of family medicine, including Clinic, Emergency and being a Hospitalist. Since my Childhood, I had an attraction to countryside and rural living. I see myself being based in a small town and equally involved in teaching as an adjunct, taking in medical students and residents and being their preceptor.
What special interests or hobbies do you have?
Outside of medicine, I am a very active person. I like spending time in nature, be it gardening and taking care of my plants or going for outdoor hikes. I love playing and watching Soccer and Basketball as well as working out in the gym.
Dr. Rachel Haywood, Chief Resident, Windsor Stream, Department of Family Medicine
Where were you born and raised?
I was born and raised in Sarnia, Ontario.
Where do you practice medicine and in what scope?
I am a family medicine resident in Windsor.
Why did you choose to pursue Postgraduate education in the Department of Family Medicine at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry?
I chose to pursue postgraduate training in family medicine at Schulich because of its strong emphasis on community-based learning and its comprehensive, patient-centered approach. The program’s commitment to serving diverse populations aligns with my own passion for accessible healthcare, and the resources provided here, including rural training, support my goal to develop a broad skill set in family and emergency medicine. The faculty and learning environment are also very supportive, which fosters a great atmosphere for growth and learning.
Can you tell me about your experience in the program?
I entered the Family Medicine program as an International Medical Graduate from Saba University, and my experience has been excellent. The transition was smooth, and I felt supported every step of the way. The program has created an environment that truly values diversity in training backgrounds, which made it easier to integrate and focus on building my skills.
What has been your greatest experience to date in your study?
My greatest experience to date has been the sense of community and family within the Windsor program. The supportive environment here fosters a closeness that makes every challenge more manageable and every success more meaningful. It’s truly a privilege to be part of such a connected group.
What has been your greatest challenge?
My greatest challenge has been the distance from friends and family and the feeling of missing home. Balancing the demands of training with staying connected to loved ones can be tough, but I find strength in knowing they're supporting me from afar. It’s been a journey of learning how to maintain those relationships despite the physical distance.
What inspires you in your work?
I’m inspired by the amazing residents and attending physicians I've had the privilege to work with—they’ve truly set an example of excellence, compassion, and dedication. Their commitment to patient care and education continually motivates me to grow and strive for the highest standards in my own practice.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In ten years' time, my goal is to be in a position that enables me to shape the next generation of family physicians by integrating robust training standards and supporting a curriculum that emphasizes evidence-based, community-centered practice. I also see myself involved in healthcare policy advocacy, focusing on rural and underserved populations.
What special interests or hobbies do you have?
I enjoy playing tennis and exploring ornithology, which lets me connect with nature in unique ways. Watercolor painting provides a creative outlet, and I find a lot of relaxation in playing the piano. Hiking is another favorite activity, offering a perfect way to unwind and recharge.
