How two donors are addressing the lack of physicians in rural BC
Rural medicine is in crisis—with not enough doctors living and working in rural and remote communities in BC. While not having a magic-bullet fix for such a complex problem, UBC alumni Dr. Colleen Froese and Wayne Brown feel one crucial part of the solution is familiarity with rural communities—and the need for medical students to experience this firsthand before graduating.
Through their estate plans—combined with current-day giving—Colleen and Wayne have established the Colleen Froese, MD and Wayne Brown Award in Rural Health. The award is for third and fourth-year MD students interested in practicing in a rural community—with preference given to students from underserved communities.
As a psychiatrist, Colleen feels training in a rural setting makes for an easier transition rather than moving there after graduation. “Otherwise, if you haven’t experienced it, it’s difficult to make that transition once you finish your residency training.”
Wayne agrees. Having accompanied Colleen on trips to Terrace, where she provided psychiatric treatment for patients, Wayne saw the urgent need for more doctors outside BC’s urban centers.
“Listening to Colleen talk about the need for younger physicians servicing rural environments—I realize there’s currently no stability in terms of people staying and working there.”
By making part of their gift now, to establish the award, Colleen and Wayne get to see the fruits of their philanthropy during their lifetime.
“Knowing your gift is doing something while you’re alive is a benefit,” says Wayne. “And not having children, we don’t have that expense—and we live fairly modestly—it made sense for us.”
The process of estate planning also meant peace of mind, knowing their wishes would be carried out as they hoped.
“I think the process has been wonderful,” says Colleen. “There has been lots of help getting our wishes down properly. And you need time for that process—so it’s good to start it as soon as you can.”
Reflecting on her numerous trips from Vancouver to her psychiatry practice in Terrace, Colleen is glad to continue supporting rural medical care with her and Wayne’s philanthropy.
“It’s been a great journey, and it’s nice to carry on something you care about—that you will never see if you leave it too late.”
For more information about UBC Okanagan’s Southern Medical Program or how to make a gift in your will, please contact
Barbara Eyles, Gift & Estate Planning 250.807.8532 barbara.eyles@ubc.ca