In 1875, Jennie Trout, MD, became the first woman licensed to practise medicine in Canada. Born in Scotland, she immigrated to Canada as a child and overcame many obstacles to become a doctor and a strong advocate for women’s education. Her interest in medicine was driven in part by her battle with chronic illness, for which doctors recommended electrotherapy. She and fellow future physician Emily Stowe completed the qualifying courses at the University of Toronto but as women, they were not admitted to the medical school.

A pioneer for women in medicine and a champion of care for those in need

An adventurer and selfless builder of health services in Newfoundland

When Dr. Wilfred Grenfell first arrived on the coast of Labrador in 1892, he was astonished by what he found in the remote fisherman community; with a population of 30,000 there was not a single medical doctor. Sir Grenfell quickly committed himself to improve the medical, economic and spiritual needs of the fishermen and their families. Eventually, he would build the region's first hospital and ultimately improve the social, health and economic status of those who populated the area.

A tireless advocate of family medicine and patient-centred care

A trailblazer for women in medicine and political life

A tireless champion of women’s health

A visionary administrator and champion of medical research

Politician, physician, and passionate advocate of public health

First woman to establish a medical practice and founder of the suffrage movement in Canada

Trailblazer in women’s health and gender issues pioneer