Name: Wendy Hartford
Program: PhD
Supervisor: Dr. Laura Nimmon
Tell us a little bit about your lab!
I work in my PhD supervisor’s Dr. Laura Nimmon’s lab. Dr. Nimmon is an Associate Professor in the Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, and Scientist at the Centre for Health Education Scholarship (CHES). It is a dynamic learning environment where I gain experience working on studies led by Dr. Nimmon who has also connected me to many scholars and graduate students at CHES. I have had broad exposure as a research assistant on studies led by CHES faculty and scholars who work on critical questions related to supporting health through education and research, and how students and healthcare providers learn and practice.
What project are you currently working on?
I am currently working on my own research project. This is a qualitative research study in which I am proposing to take a social network lens to examine how family physicians engage in chronic disease care. For instance, how do primary care family physicians collaborate/network with other health care professionals and service providers in relation to chronic disease care. My research goal is to contribute to improving family physicians’ work environment and patient access to collaborative and integrated care.
What do you like to do outside of academia?
When I am not working on my research, I enjoy spending time with my growing family exploring their diverse neighbourhoods. I also take time to look after my physical and mental wellbeing by biking/spinning, walking around, up, and down my own neighbourhood, waterfront, and Semiahmoo heritage trails.
Congratulations Wendy on being our featured Student of the Month for November! Interested in seeing what else our Rehabilitation Sciences students and trainees are working on? Stay tuned for our next feature!