September

It’s common practice for specifically trained WorkSafeBC physicians to perform examinations on injured workers who suffer residual impairment following medical investigations and treatment. The objective of these exams is to document clinical findings associated with permanent functional impairment, such as restricted range of motion, a compromised neurovascular system, or a deformity consistent with the condition or condi­tions accepted under the claim. Ultimately, the goal is to expedite the calculation of a long-term disability award. 

For most of his medical career, Kamloops oncologist Dr Ar­dash­es Avanessian tended to postpone end-of-life discussions with his patients, often waiting until their disease was quite advanced. 

“It’s a difficult thing to talk about because it’s so emotionally laden and it takes time and you have to be in the right mood,” says Avanessian, who adds that his medical training didn’t prepare him for taking responsibility in that area. 

What profession might you have pursued, if not for medicine?
CBC Radio journalist.

Which talent would you most like to have?
Fluency in two other languages (e.g., French and Spanish).

What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Raising two individual, independent sons with my husband, Peter.