It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Jill McEwen, a true pioneer in Emergency Medicine and a beloved member of the CAEP community. Dr. McEwen’s sudden departure on November 1, 2024, leaves an immeasurable void in our field.
For over 37 years, Dr. McEwen served as an emergency physician at Vancouver General Hospital, where she was renowned for her unwavering commitment to patient care and her ability to find joy in her work.
Her compassion and dedication inspired countless colleagues and learners throughout her career. Dr. McEwen’s impact on medical education was truly remarkable. For 35 years, she served as the Director of the Undergraduate Education program for the University of British Columbia’s (UBC) Department of Emergency Medicine.
Her innovative approach led to the creation of one of Canada’s first mandatory Emergency Medicine clerkships, consistently receiving stellar reviews from medical students.
Dr. McEwen’s 38-year membership with CAEP was marked by significant contributions and leadership roles:
In 2019, Dr. McEwen was honored with CAEP’s highest accolade, the President’s Award, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the profession.
Dr. McEwen was known for her dedication to mentoring colleagues and supporting the next generation of emergency physicians. She was deeply involved in many aspects of teaching and was a familiar sight at CAEP conferences, where she could often be found offering
guidance to fellow professionals.
Outside of her professional achievements, Dr. McEwen was a devoted mother to four grown children. She was also an animal lover, sharing her home with three cats and a black Labrador. In her spare time, she enjoyed running, skiing, and boating.
Dr. McEwen’s impact on emergency medicine in Canada cannot be overstated. She was instrumental in advancing the field through education, research, and advocacy. Her commitment to excellence and her compassionate approach to patient care set a standard for emergency physicians across the country. Emergency Medicine will shine a little less bright without Dr. McEwen, but her legacy will live on through those she mentored, the patients she cared for, and in the hearts of CAEP members.
On behalf of the CAEP Board and all its members, we extend our sincerest condolences to Dr. McEwen’s department, hospital, friends, and beloved family. Her loss is deeply felt throughout the emergency medicine community in Canada and beyond.
