Dedicated to enhancing not just patient outcomes but also the well-being of its entire community, UBC Orthopaedics takes a significant step forward by introducing a dynamic duo to lead its Mentorship & Wellness endeavors. Dr. Alastair Younger and Dr. Tym Frank bring passion, expertise, and a commitment to equity and inclusion to their roles as Director and Associate Director, respectively.
In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, nurturing the well-being and professional growth of every member within our department is paramount. Recognizing this imperative, the Department of Orthopaedics at the University of British Columbia (UBC) proudly unveils its latest strategic initiative: the establishment of the Director, Mentorship & Wellness, and Associate Director, Mentorship & Wellness roles. At the helm of this transformative endeavor are Dr. Alastair Younger and Dr. Tym Frank, two esteemed leaders who embody our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
As Director, Mentorship & Wellness, Dr. Younger brings a wealth of experience and a visionary approach to fostering a culture of mentorship and well-being. His dedication to creating inclusive spaces for open dialogue and support will be instrumental in shaping the department’s future. Assisting him in this vital mission is Dr. Tym Frank, stepping into the role of Associate Director with a passion for collaborative leadership and a deep understanding of the needs of our diverse community.
Dr. Alastair Younger, Director, Mentorship & Wellness
“Mentorship and wellness is a new area for me. However on reflection it was what drove me to become the BCOA president – to try and improve the working conditions for Orthopaedic surgeons in the Province. It became clear during my time in this role that there was very little understanding of the challenges of Orthopaedics by hospitals, by ministries, the college or by doctors of BC. This is an opportunity for the Department of Orthopaedics to work with the British Columbia Orthopaedic Association to improve the resilience of our surgeons and as a result improve patient care. My reading around this has made it clear that Orthopaedics is a very stressful area of medicine, and we have to help each other out towards changing the future. Helping each other out means mentorship, and means standing together to improve wellness by addressing stressors. This is particularly important for trainees.”
Dr. Tym Frank, Assistant Director, Mentorship & Wellness
“I am excited to build a strong mentorship and wellness program in the UBC Department of Orthopaedics along with my esteemed colleague Dr. Younger. Mentorship and wellness is built on a bed of connection, communication, conversation and culture and I look forward to exploring what this means to all of our learners, staff and faculty.”
This initiative aligns seamlessly with our department’s strategic goals, emphasizing the importance of holistic care and community engagement. By prioritizing mentorship and wellness, we not only enhance the professional development and satisfaction of our members but also strengthen our collective ability to deliver outstanding orthopaedic healthcare outcomes. As we embark on this journey together, guided by our values of integrity, collaboration, and equity, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a healthier, more inclusive future for all.
