Daniela (left) and her mother Berta (right) were so fortunate to encounter a compassionate doctor in Humber’s Apotex Emergency Department who recognized their need for a family practitioner and recommended the Schulich FMTU.

Finding the right healthcare provider who listens, understands, and takes action can be transformative. For Daniela and her mother Berta, their journey with the Schulich Family Medicine Teaching Unit (Schulich FMTU) at Humber River Health has been nothing short of life-changing.

The Schulich FMTU was created to tackle the pressing shortage of primary care providers in Northwest Toronto. With a catchment of 850,000, it aims to ease the burden on overwhelmed emergency rooms by offering prompt healthcare access to our community, all while serving as a training center for Medical Residents in collaboration with the University of Toronto.

Daniela suffers from iron deficiency anemia and, at the time, was no stranger to Humber’s Apotex Emergency Department. Her frequent symptoms varied from fainting to chest pains, heavy periods and even seizures.

Fortunately, during a visit to Humber’s ED, Daniela and Berta were lucky to discover the Schulich FMTU. Berta recalls feeling relieved and grateful for the opportunity to have her daughter receive comprehensive care from the dedicated team in Humber’s ED.

“We were so fortunate to encounter a compassionate doctor who recognized our need for a family practitioner and recommended the Schulich FMTU,” says Berta.

Transitioning to the Schulich FMTU marked a significant improvement in Daniela and Berta’s quality of life. They appreciated the thoroughness and efficiency of the care provided, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures and attentive listening.

“It’s not just any ordinary clinic,” says Daniela. “It’s where students are learning to work in the healthcare field, setting a precedent for better quality of care.”

“Since working with the team at the Schulich FMTU, we’ve received amazing guidance and support from our family doctor,” says Daniela. Daniela and Berta both have Schulich FMTU Resident, Dr. Clara Sawires as their primary family practitioner.

Schulich FMTU’s emphasis on teamwork, collaboration, and patient-centered care resonated deeply with Daniela and Berta, making them feel empowered and valued in their healthcare journey.

“It’s not just any ordinary clinic,” says Daniela. “It’s where students are learning to work in the healthcare field, setting a precedent for better quality of care.”

Nearly a year later, Daniela continues her monthly visits with Dr. Sawires and both her and her mother Berta are overjoyed with the care they have been receiving.

“Thank you to Dr. Sawires, Dr. Priya Sood and the entire team at the Schulich FMTU,” says Berta. “We’re grateful, healthier and happier than ever!”