The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners has awarded Christchurch-based GP Dr Lauren McGifford the top honour of Distinguished Fellowship at GP22: the Conference for General Practice.
Dr McGifford served on the College Board for six years, and since 2011 she has been the lead Medical Educator for Canterbury-based registrars who are in their first year of study to become specialist general practitioners.
During her time as a Medical Educator, Dr McGifford has had to steer registrars through some very challenging times and experiences, including the Canterbury earthquakes, Christchurch Mosque shootings, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
College President Dr Samantha Murton says, “Dr McGifford’s calm and caring leadership during these tough times has ensured our registrars were able to access the support and resources they needed, as well as being able to continue towards their goal of becoming a GP.
“I enjoyed having her reliable and grounded presence on the Board as we ensured the College stays true to its core purpose and vision to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders.”
Distinguished Fellowship is awarded to GPs who have demonstrated sustained contributions to general practice, medicine, or the health and wellbeing of the community. This year, five GPs and one rural hospital doctor received this award at GP22: the Conference for General Practice.