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When you think of rural medicine, dinosaurs might not immediately come to mind. But in Tumbler Ridge, it’s all part of the charm. From July 4 to 6, over 100 rural physicians, resident doctors, medical students, healthcare leaders, and their families gathered in the spectacular northeastern Rocky Mountains for the 2025 Tumbler Ridge Medical Conference. Hosted on the traditional lands of Treaty 8 Nations and the Kelly Lake Cree Nation within one of Canada’s five UNESCO Global Geoparks, the conference seamlessly blended clinical education, outdoor adventures, and genuine community spirit.
The event began Friday with practical, hands-on workshops tailored specifically to rural healthcare providers. Dr. Tamara Pacholuk sharpened participants’ emergency skills through an Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) renewal session. Nearby, Dr. Ryan Hoskins led the popular BREATHE course, guiding clinicians through vital airway management scenarios common in rural emergency care. At the Tumbler Ridge Visitor Centre, Dr. Charles Helm offered an engaging ECG interpretation workshop grounded in real-world rural cases, playfully reminding everyone that cardiology is “just more fun with dinosaurs.” The day concluded with a welcoming Dinnersaur dinner and exclusive fossil tour at the Dinosaur Discovery Gallery, extending the learning and camaraderie beyond traditional classroom walls.
Saturday’s program opened with a powerful keynote by Indigenous Obstetrician-Gynecologist Dr. Don Wilson, who thoughtfully explored the impacts of colonization on Indigenous communities’ metabolic health and emphasized culturally informed health solutions. Participants then attended engaging clinical sessions, including postpartum care essentials presented by Dr. Christine Brenckmann and compassionate deprescribing strategies shared by Dr. Jill Norris. Pharmacist Aaron Tejani offered clear, practical advice on safely managing anticholinergic medications, equipping clinicians to handle these challenges confidently.
Saturday afternoon featured lively World Café sessions designed for rapid, interactive learning. Dr. Salaheddin Eknewir provided updates on COPD treatment strategies tailored for rural practice. Dr. Yonabeth Nava de Escalante introduced a patient-friendly approach to pain management during IUD insertion based on promising rural research. Dr. Leigh Hunsinger-Chang encouraged participants to adopt climate-informed practices, while Dr. James Toft refreshed attendees on essential measles recognition, management, and reporting.
Beyond clinical learning, participants embraced the region’s natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Activities included guided fossil hikes, mountain biking, and scenic riverboat trips to Kinuseo Falls. Kids enjoyed their own special dinosaur themed activities. The memorable community feast at Lions Flatbed Creek Campground featured local specialties from “The Meat Doctor” and a vibrant live performance by Mechanical Botanicals, reinforcing the event’s sense of community.
Sunday’s discussions emphasized health equity, advocacy, and rural leadership. Dr. Todd Alec, Indigenous Health Medical Co-Lead at the Rural Coordination Centre of BC (RCCbc) and Northern Health, provided meaningful insights into inclusion, social justice, and equity within rural healthcare systems. Dr. Charlene Lui, President of Doctors of BC, shared valuable perspectives on the broader provincial healthcare landscape. Pharmacist Aaron Tejani returned with a practical session on addressing prescribing cascades, while pediatrician Dr. Kirsten Miller, Sustaining Pediatrics in Rural & Underserved Communities (SPRUCe) Co-lead at RCCbc, provided crucial updates on childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes in rural practice.
The weekend concluded with engaging, hands-on workshops: ultrasound techniques led by Dr. Claire Lenouvel and Dr Bron Finkelsteinl, realistic emergency simulations facilitated by Val Lamb, RN, and an energetic CPR race coordinated by Dr. Tamara Pacholuk.
Behind the event’s success was a dedicated planning committee consisting of Dr. Charles Helm, Jayleen Emery, Dr. Tamara Pacholuk, Heather Gummow and Dr. Magda du Plessis, supported by numerous local volunteers, healthcare providers, and community leaders.
For resident physicians and medical students—especially those new to rural medicine or new to Canada, the conference offered a rare and relaxed opportunity to meet mentors, form new friendships, and immerse themselves in rural medical culture.
Now in its seventh year, the Tumbler Ridge Medical Conference continues to thrive thanks to the passion and dedication of its community. RCCbc is proud to support such an exceptional event. Thank you to everyone who contributed to its success. Ultimately, though, this conference belongs to the rural communities and passionate clinicians who, year after year, bring warmth, energy, and dedication to rural healthcare.
