Dr. Zahi Touma

2021 CRA Distinguished Teacher-Educator

Dr. Elaine Yacyshyn MD MScHQ FRCPC

Dr. Elaine Yacyshyn became Rheumatology Program Director shortly after starting her academic career at the University of Alberta. This rewarding position enabled her to contribute to the academic development of their Internal Medicine and Rheumatology residents, and she was able to meet many of her Canadian counterparts. She had the opportunity to participate in and then to Co-Chair the National Rheumatology Resident Weekend, which was a great opportunity to participate in a national rheumatology education network and work with amazing colleagues.

As Dr. Yacyshyn transitioned from the role as Program Director, she became an examiner for the Rheumatology RCPSC examination, followed by exam Chair for two terms.  She is currently a member of the RCPSC Examination Committee, which oversees all Royal College examinations.

Dr. Yacyshyn has really enjoyed her career as a Clinician Educator, noting that she has taught and assessed learners using many different formats.  She continues to teach at the undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels. Dr. Yacyshyn believes that it is essential to expose residents to research and quality improvement and has made this one of her priorities.  She has undertaken further training in patient safety and quality improvement to enhance her educational and clinical skills in this area.  She is now the Post Graduate Medical Education Co-chair of Quality Improvement training programs and has developed a QI curricular program for learners.

Dr. Yacyshyn states: “I am extremely honored to be recognized with this award. I would like to acknowledge the support from all the learners I have worked with as well as my colleagues locally and nationally. I have found my role as an educator to be one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.”