Dr. Tomislav Svoboda receives Regional Family Physician of the Year Award from Ontario College of Family Physicians

By Michael Oliveira

St. Michael’s Hospital’s Dr. Tomislav Svoboda has been chosen as one of seven recipients of this year’s
Ontario College of Family Physicians Regional Family Physician of the Year Awards.

Family doctors are nominated by their peers to be recognized for providing exemplary care to their patients and for their passionate involvement in activities that contribute to excellence in family medicine.

One winner is chosen for each of seven regions in the province; Dr. Svoboda was the winner for Toronto Central and Central.

“Collaborative, open and humble, Dr. Svoboda leads by example and the hundreds of men he has worked with at Seaton House know he genuinely cares about them and believes that their lives matter,” said Monica Waldman, manager at Seaton House, Toronto’s largest homeless shelter.

“It is apparent to me every day how many lives Dr. Svoboda has – and continues to – save over the decades. He’s the real deal.”

Dr. Svoboda has spent much of his career devoted to researching and implementing new care models for the homeless and has made a tremendous impact, said college president Dr. Glenn Brown.

“Dr. Svoboda’s unwavering commitment to providing compassionate and medical care to those who are homeless in Toronto has inspired many other family physicians to pursue similar work,” said Brown.

“His contributions extend beyond his own community and have been an inspiration to other jurisdictions across Canada and internationally. It is a privilege to celebrate his achievements through this award.”

About St. Michael’s Hospital

St. Michael’s Hospital provides compassionate care to all who enter its doors. The hospital also provides outstanding medical education to future health care professionals in more than 29 academic disciplines. Critical care and trauma, heart disease, neurosurgery, diabetes, cancer care, care of the homeless and global health are among the Hospital’s recognized areas of expertise. Through the Keenan Research Centre and the Li Ka Shing International Healthcare Education Centre, which make up the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, research and education at St. Michael’s Hospital are recognized and make an impact around the world. Founded in 1892, the hospital is fully affiliated with the University of Toronto.

St. Michael’s Hospital with Providence Healthcare and St. Joseph’s Health Centre now operate under one corporate entity as of August 1, 2017. United, the three organizations serve patients, residents and clients across the full spectrum of care, spanning primary care, secondary community care, tertiary and quaternary care services to post-acute through rehabilitation, palliative care and long-term care, while investing in world-class research and education.