Chantal MedaThe University of Ottawa’s Excellence in Education prizes recognize educators of exceptional quality, who provide outstanding teaching while maintaining a solid research program. For previous profiles of the seven prize winners in 2006, see Related Links.
An associate professor with the Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Pippa Hall has a reputation for innovative teaching techniques and fostering interdisciplinary approaches to palliative care, both in the classroom and in the community. She is one of this year’s recipients of the University of Ottawa’s Excellence in Education Prizes.
“It is an honour and privilege to be awarded this prize. The fact that I have been recognized is astonishing,” enthuses Hall. “It is such a wonderful demonstration of support by my peers.”
Addressing the physical and psychological needs of people nearing the end of their lives, palliative care focuses on achieving comfort and respect for the person nearing death, with an emphasis on maximizing the quality of life for the patient, their family and loved ones.
According to Hall, “There has been increased recognition that there are things to do to relieve the suffering of the terminally ill. The medical community is more aware and recognizes the importance of integrating end-of-life care into undergraduate medical programs. However, while we have made great strides, we have some distance yet to go. It is important that we stay person- and family-centred so that this approach may be echoed in other disciplines.”
Hall’s recent research interests reflect her background in education. Beginning her career with a Bachelor of Education, she worked as an elementary school teacher before returning to university to earn science and medical degrees. Upon completion of her residency in family medicine, she went on to complete a fellowship in palliative medicine and a master’s degree in education. Her current interests have focused on the evaluation of educational programs, ranging from community-based continuing education programs for interdisciplinary groups of physicians and allied health professionals, to an interdisciplinary undergraduate course.
“I’m fascinated with how we learn and work together in a clinical setting,” she maintains. “My interests spring from my experience in dealing with families with personal illness and finding the best way to care for the person and their family.”
Hall’s current research involves Inter-professional Education for Collaborative Patient-Centred Practice (IECPC), or as she prefers to see it, “person-centred practice.”
Recognized as one of the University of Ottawa’s educators of exceptional quality, Dr. Pippa Hall attempts to teach doctors to emphasize the human touch in their interactions with patients.
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William Ogilvie
