The last nine months have been filled with challenges and uncertainty for physicians, as we’ve navigated the worst pandemic in over a century.

This special COVID-19 edition of Rounds helps to capture the journey of the medical profession, with the experiences of several doctors finding their way through the pandemic.

We have the stories of a surgeon, a critical care specialist, a northern physician, a rural doctor and a medical resident, each sharing how COVID has impacted their professional and personal lives and how they’ve coped. You’ll also find tips from a number of physicians about building resilience and managing the pressure and uncertainty we’ve all faced as physicians.

We have a special feature on a physician who likely needs no introduction. Dr. Brent Roussin didn’t know this pandemic was around the corner when he started as Manitoba’s Chief Provincial Public Health Officer a year and a half ago. Learn more about what it has been like to lead the public health response, a balancing act like no other.

You’ll also notice something different with this edition of Rounds: a new look for Doctors Manitoba.

Based on the feedback we received last year in the broadest consultation with members we’ve ever done, we crafted a new strategic plan with a new mission to strengthen and support the whole physician. We also heard from members loud and clear that they want Doctors Manitoba to be more visible and to be more courageous with our advocacy on behalf of physicians.

We’ve been walking that talk for several months now as we’ve fought for what physicians need during this pandemic. And now we have a new look to match.

We’ve embraced bold new contemporary colours to help us stand out. For our logo, we’ve incorporated a stylized lifeline, because all of us, regardless of our specialty, work to better our patients’ lives.

I hope you like our new look, and I hope you enjoy this special edition of Rounds.

While a vaccine has given us a glimmer of home, we still have a difficult winter ahead. Please remember, the Doctors Manitoba team is here to support you. Please contact them with any questions or concerns by emailing covid19@​doctorsmanitoba.​ca.

Sincerely,
Dr. Cory Baillie
President 2020/21