From her first day working at the hospital on March 5, 1990, Dr. Christyne Peters knew that Markham Stouffville Hospital (MSH) was where she belonged. As one of the original obstetricians at MSH, Dr. Peters has a long history in helping our hospital and community grow over the past 29 years.
Since the hospital’s opening, Dr. Peters has witnessed many positive changes in the childbirth unit, now known as The Stollery Family Centre for Childbirth & Children. Deliveries have increased year over year and, in 2014, the unit expanded with the hospital’s renovations, but according to Dr. Peters, the community feel of the unit has never waivered.
“The best part about working at MSH is the people; the staff relies on each other to help provide the best care possible to our patients.” The supportive culture and close-knit community keeps Dr. Peters inspired to be a compassionate member of the childbirth team.
This year, Dr. Peters was recognized for this compassion as one of the recipients of MSH’s inaugural Honoured to Care awards.
“I’ve always taken the attitude that anyone can make a good experience great, and that making someone’s often difficult time easier can help them feel supported,” she says.
“Making sure patients receive the compassion they deserve is gratifying for me, and I recognize the importance of having even a small opportunity to make a difference.”
When asked why she feels it valuable to empower her patients in this way, Dr. Peters explains: “If you empower patients to be involved in decisions, it helps them become more accepting and gives them some control over their care.”
Helping patients move through the process of their stay at MSH is key. Addressing their fears and clearly presenting the options available to them is something Dr. Peters feels is necessary and meaningful.
In her spare time outside of dedicating many hours to MSH, Dr. Peters likes staying active by hiking, cycling and tennis. She also enjoys theatre and the company of her two year old grandson.