Choosing a career in medicine requires a sense of calling. A future doctor must understand the gravity of their work and truly enjoy helping others. One such person is Dr. Bryan Ritchie, a family doctor in Edmonton who has saved countless lives and continues to bring hope and healing to his patients. More on iedmonton.net.
A Typical Day at Work
Every morning at 8 a.m., Dr. Ritchie begins his day at one of Edmonton’s medical centers. Before seeing his first patient, he holds a briefing with the staff, reviews his schedule for the day, and prepares for the surprises a new day might bring.
His schedule is packed with patients presenting a variety of issues, from knee pain to earaches and stomach troubles. For example, one patient who was on a specific medication ran out and needed a substitute drug, which Dr. Ritchie quickly prescribed. Follow-up ensured the patient was doing well. Others under his care include individuals with diabetes whose recent test results raised concerns.
Dr. Ritchie sees patients of all ages and diagnoses a wide range of illnesses. His dedication and persistence have saved many lives. Pneumonia is one of the most common conditions he treats, and he recalls his first encounter with a concealed case of the illness.
A memorable case involved a 10-year-old girl, Elizabeth, who was brought in with a persistent cough but no fever. After carefully listening to her lungs, Dr. Ritchie suspected pneumonia, a diagnosis later confirmed by an X-ray. Thanks to his training and expertise, Elizabeth made a full recovery. Cases like this are a routine part of his career.
Who Is Dr. Bryan Ritchie?
Born in Edmonton in 1975, Dr. Ritchie demonstrated an early interest in medicine. His parents encouraged him to pursue his passion, and he graduated with honors from the University of Alberta’s medical program.
After completing his studies, he began working as a family doctor at an Edmonton hospital. Seeking further challenges, he later moved to Ermineskin, where he has worked for over 20 years. During this time, he has handled immense workloads and treated patients with a wide variety of ailments. Early in his career, he responded to house calls at all hours, working without a set schedule.
The Role of a Family Doctor
As a family doctor, Dr. Ritchie provides primary care, addressing the general health needs of his patients. He also visits emergency centers to assist during surgeries and occasionally provides psychological support, showcasing the diverse roles family doctors can play. One of his weekly tasks includes performing vasectomies, often assisting patients referred by other family physicians.
Dr. Ritchie emphasizes a comprehensive approach to healthcare. He frequently consults with colleagues to establish accurate diagnoses and works alongside a licensed nurse who conducts preliminary patient examinations.
Medicine as a Calling
Dr. Ritchie believes that being a doctor is more than just a job—it is a calling. His dedication to patient care and collaboration with other medical professionals exemplifies the essence of his profession. His commitment ensures that each patient receives the best possible care.