By Michayla Hicks

As I near the end of my family medicine residency through the UBC Kelowna program, I reflect on one of the most impactful experiences of my training: my rural rotation in Invermere.

I was interested in completing my rural rotation in Invermere because of its location, nestled in the mountains. Previous residents spoke highly of the training and, more importantly, the people.

When I arrived, my first impression was pure awe. Invermere’s natural beauty is striking, and its small-town charm immediately made me feel welcome. It wasn’t long before I understood what others had meant when they said that this place is special.

Outside of work, I had endless opportunities to soak up the outdoors from hiking to skiing. I used every free moment to explore the community and surrounding region. With Panorama being just a short drive from town, it was easy to take advantage of blue skies and groomed runs.

Beyond the scenery, what truly made Invermere stand out was the unparalleled sense of community. From the people in town to my preceptors to the clinic staff and hospital staff, everyone I met made me feel like I belonged. The warm welcome that I received extended far beyond professional support, it was a personal welcome to the community.

 The clinical learning environment in Invermere was second to none. The mentorship I received pushed me to grow my clinical skills and build my confidence. My preceptors went above and beyond teaching and created an environment that fostered genuine connection and collegiality. They shared clinical wisdom and invited me into their personal lives, creating a space where I felt safe to learn and flourish.

My days were full and varied: morning rounds at the hospital, time with clinic staff over coffee, procedures at lunch, and an afternoon back in clinic. It was the full-spectrum rural experience that I had hoped for.

One moment that truly captured the heart of my time in Invermere happened on my birthday.

I was working all day, away from family and friends, expecting a busy, lonely day. Instead, I was met with a surprise card and cake from the clinic staff. Later, while working in the emergency department, a local physician called me just to say how perfect the lake looked for skating.

My preceptor told me to go enjoy the sunshine, fresh air, and insisted that he would cover things while I was gone. The same doctor that called me, brought me skates. I zipped across a glassy Lake Windermere, then returned to the hospital where we finished the evening with takeout. That day, I didn’t feel like “just another resident.” I felt part of a family.

 This rotation changed my perspective on where I want to practice. I’ve come to value being part of a tight-knit community and realized I don’t see myself returning to a city to practice.

Invermere reminded me that medicine is about more than diagnoses and management; it’s about connection. The medical community in Invermere truly cares.

For anyone considering working or doing a rotation in Invermere, my advice is simple: don’t miss Invermere. Immerse yourself. Talk to locals. Ask what’s happening in town, because there’s always something.

The beauty of the region will draw you in, but it’s the people who will make you want to stay.

Photo submitted

Michayla Hicks is part of the UBC Kelowna Family Medicine Program

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