Doctors Manitoba is pleased to announce Dr. Alon Altman will serve as the organization’s president for the 2026 – 2027 term. Dr. Altman works as a gynecologic oncologist in Winnipeg. 

“Dr. Altman is an exceptional doctor who cares deeply about advocating for physicians and their patients,” outgoing President Dr. Nichelle Desilets said. ​“I look forward to watching his success in the coming year.” 

Each spring, a new president starts on year-long term while also continuing their clinical practice. The president serves as the chief elected representative and primary spokesperson for Manitoba’s physicians. In his address as incoming President, Dr. Altman said physician retention will be his primary focus for the year ahead, because currently Manitoba loses more physicians to other jurisdictions than nearly every other province in the country. 

Dr. Altman grew up in British Columbia and intended to stay there, but eventually was drawn to Manitoba for his medical career. 

“I came here for a job,” he said. ​“I stayed because it became home.” 

Sharing his own story, he says, will play a key role in how he shapes his advocacy efforts on behalf of Manitoba’s physicians. 

“As we think about how to advance our province and strengthen our medical system,” he added, ​“I will be focused on working with health system leaders to find the best pathways that keep the students and residents we train, and ensure more physicians choose to stay in Manitoba for the duration of their careers. That’s the bullseye.” 

Research shows retention has been a challenge when it comes to physicians: 

• Manitoba retains about two thirds of our medical school and residency graduates into full practice, and that decreases to under 60% after several years (CIHI and CAPER studies). 
• Manitoba suffered a net loss of 8.3 physicians per 1,000 to other provinces, the second worst interprovincial migration rate in Canada (CIHI).
• 43% of doctors are considering reducing their hours, retiring, or leaving Manitoba in the next three years (DRMB 2025 Annual Physician Survey). 

“When we focus on retention, we’re improving work environments and equipping doctors with the right systems, technology and teams they need do their jobs,” Altman said. ​“But ultimately, and most importantly, all of that leads to better care for the patients of Manitoba. “ 

Dr. Altman studied medicine at University of British Columbia, and went on to complete his residency in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Dalhousie University. He completed his fellowship in Gynecologic Oncology at the University of Calgary before starting his full medical practice in Winnipeg in 2011. 

Dr. Altman serves as Gynecologic Oncologist and Professor at the University of Manitoba, and cares for patients at the Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre/​CancerCare Manitoba.