Dr. Gunnar Kraag

2011 Distinguished Rheumatologist

Dr. Kraag received his M.D. from Queen’s University in 1969. After Internal Medical training in Toronto and chief residency in internal medicine at Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto, Ontario in 1973, he proceeded to rheumatology training at the University of Toronto and McMaster University, completing his residency training in 1975.

In the area of patient care and service, Dr. Kraag’s contributions have been stellar. Early in his career, he looked after the entire undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, local CME and started the rheumatology training program at McMaster University. He started an RDU at the Ottawa Civic Hospital and was Chief of Staff, Ottawa Civic Hospital from 1992 to 1996. He was Chief, Department of Medicine, Ottawa Civic Hospital and Deputy-Chair, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa from 1996 to 1999. He was Chief of Rheumatology, University of Ottawa from 1998 to 2003.

Dr. Kraag has been dedicated to teaching and clinical research throughout his career. He has been cited on many occasions for teaching excellence and has an impressive publication record. With respect to Professional Creative Activities, he was very active with the Arthritis Society (TAS) serving on the National Board and being Chairman of the Ontario Medical Advisory Committee. He was the first recipient of the Hugh Little award for service to TAS.

Dr. Kraag was active for many years on the executive of the Canadian Rheumatology Association, including as President of the CRA from 2006 to 2008. Dr. Kraag was on the examination board for the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada for nine years and chief examiner in rheumatology for three years.

In addition to his remarkable tangible achievements over his career, Dr. Kraag has been an inspirational force in Canadian rheumatology. His tremendous sense of humour, good cheer, common sense and rock solid dependability are attributes that have helped innumerable medical trainees and colleagues over the years, and helped make his tenures at his educational, administrative and professional association positions so successful.