Feature: International Women's Day - Dr. Heather Johnson

General DOM News & Events

| 15 March 2024

In honour of International Women’s Day, we will be highlighting four inspirational women from the Department of Medicine this month.

Meet Dr. Heather Johnson, an Assistant Professor in the Division of General Internal Medicine. Her clinical work involves attending on the inpatient Clinical Teaching Units, the General Internal Medicine consult team, and ambulatory clinics at Kingston Health Sciences Centre. She is also part of the Substance use Treatment and Rehabilitation Team (START), which provides inpatient addiction medicine consultations at KHSC.

What initially sparked your interest in pursuing a career in medicine?

It’s such a cliché, but I’ve always loved science and helping people, so when I was young, medicine seemed like a natural choice. I didn’t know at all what I was getting into, but luckily, I have been incredibly happy and wouldn’t want to be doing anything else.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue a career in medicine?

Find mentors and role models in your field. I’ve been fortunate to work with so many amazing women over the years, and I’ve benefited tremendously from their advice and support. There are unique challenges that come with being a woman in medicine, and it’s been helpful to hear how others have navigated them.

What do you find most rewarding about being a woman in medicine?

This is a hard one to answer. I feel like many of the things that I do particularly well – staying organized, communicating well with patients and families, being approachable to learners – are traditionally considered to be “feminine” qualities. To be recognized as being good at this job specifically because of these skills is very rewarding.

How do you unwind and de-stress after a long day at the hospital? Any guilty pleasures or favourite relaxation rituals?

After spending some quality time with my three-year-old and getting him to bed, my favourite thing to do is to curl up with a book, some milk and cookies, and of course my cat.

Feature: International Women's Day - Dr. Heather Johnson

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Feature: International Women's Day - Dr. Heather Johnson

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