In a testament to her extraordinary contributions and dedication to the field of emergency medicine, Dr. Caroline Thompson, interim co-chief for SHN’s emergency departments, was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Toronto Women in Emergency Medicine group in May. This award celebrates women working in emergency medicine who have shown exemplary contribution and dedication to their field for 20 years or more.

Toronto Women in Emergency Medicine is a GTA-based academic program funded by the University of Toronto. The organization holds lectures for women and allies in emergency medicine who seek to bring awareness and address mitigation to gender bias and disparity within the emergency medicine community.

Dr. Caroline Thompson in front of the Centenary ED, where she posed to be a face of the Love, Scarborough fundraising campaign

“There are many skilled and passionate women in emergency medicine, and I am honoured to accept this award and potentially inspire other physicians who will dedicate themselves to this field for years to come,” said Dr. Thompson.

“I thank the Toronto Women in Emergency Medicine for their recognition, and SHN for being the host to my craft for the past 20 years.”

Dr. Thompson’s colleagues, Drs. Fiona Pinto, Phil Iradakunda, Supreet Sunil, Saahil Vi, and Sandra Rao, highlighted her remarkable professional journey in their nominations of her for the Lifetime Achievement Award.

“Dr. Thompson is compassionate, knowledgeable, funny, and wonderful with patients. There are few emergency medicine physicians whom I admire as much as her,” said Dr. Fiona Pinto, SHN ED Research Lead, in her nomination.

“She is an exceptional leader, amazing teacher and a strong advocate for equitable emergency care.  I wholeheartedly believe she deserves the TWEM Lifetime Achievement Award!”

A staff emergency physician at SHN since 2004, Dr. Thompson is a cornerstone of SHN’s emergency department, helping to build our academic program and teaching the next generation of emergency physicians through residency rotations. She has garnered several awards for bedside teaching and curriculum development throughout her career.

Beyond her academic achievements, Dr. Thompson’s legacy is most profoundly reflected in her mentorship. She has guided and trained many colleagues who now play pivotal roles in medical education, simulation training, professional development, wellness initiatives, and leadership.