Dr. Brian McPherson is one of 750 family doctors across Ontario celebrated by their patients and the Ontario College of Family Physicians (OCFP) for their exceptional care and dedication to community health. Of the 750 physicians, he is one of six recognized from the Timiskaming–Cochrane district for making a profound impact on their patients’ lives.

“I am very grateful for the excellent care and leadership Dr. McPherson provides to help make healthcare work for the community,” said Jorge VanSlyke, President and CEO of Blanche River Health (BRH). “I extend my heartfelt congratulations for this well-deserved recognition.”

The OCFP initiated this recognition by asking patients to share how their family doctors have gone above and beyond. The outpouring of heartfelt responses highlights the crucial role family physicians play in the lives of Ontarians.

“For so many Ontarians, family physicians are the first call they make when something is not right,” said Dr. Jobin Varughese, President of the Ontario College of Family Physicians. “What we heard from patients from all corners of the province is that family physicians are essential. They are there for patients through all of life’s milestones, providing care when they need it most.”

As the former lead physician at the Kirkland District Family Health Team, Dr. McPherson has always had an incredibly attentive way of caring for his patients. “He’s kind, understanding, and truly listens—he takes everything his patients say seriously,” noted Mandy Weeden, Director at Kirkland District Family Health Team who also works along side Dr. McPherson on the Physician Recruitment & Retention Committee.

In Kirkland Lake, Dr. McPherson has worn many hats in service to the community. In addition to his role as Chief of Staff at Blanche River Health, he serves as the District Coroner and as an Occupational Health Physician for Agnico Eagle Mines, showcasing his versatility and dedication to comprehensive care. He also volunteers his time across various boards and committees, including the Physician Recruitment and Retention Committee, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to addressing healthcare challenges and improving access for residents. His engineering background further equips him with a unique perspective, balancing clinical expertise with operational insight—a combination that has elevated healthcare delivery in our community.

“When we moved to Kirkland Lake 13 years ago, it was the vibrant community and scope of practice that made us want to stay long-term,” shared Dr. McPherson. “I credit my colleagues, my patients, and the community for creating an opportunity for all of us to thrive, and I thank them and the Ontario College of Family Physicians for this kind honour.”

This provincial recognition is a testament to the vital role family physicians like Dr. McPherson and his peers play. It also emphasizes the strong foundation of healthcare excellence being cultivated in our district.

Let’s Keep the Recognition Going

Your positive experiences with the Blanche River Health team matter! Share your story with us and help us highlight the outstanding care that makes a difference. Submit your feedback online at blancheriverhealth.ca/feedback or use the forms available in our hospital waiting areas and we will feature the team member in an upcoming Thankful Thursday.

About Blanche River Health

Blanche River Health (BRH) is a 74-bed hospital corporation with two sites serving the North Eastern Ontario communities of Englehart (26 beds) and Kirkland Lake (48 beds) as well as residents in surrounding areas. Our mission is to make health care work for you.

BRH values people and continuous improvement and we demonstrate this through accountability, respect, and courage to excel.

Please direct media inquiries to: Communications and Public Relations 1-866-274-7774 ext. 2144 | communications@blancheriverhealth.ca

Pictured: 

Some of the incredible physicians serving the Kirkland Lake and Englehart area along with BRH leadership team, celebrate Dr. McPherson. 

From left to right: Dr. Mark Spiller, Dr. Edward Jordan, Dr. Lasha Gorecki, Dr. Antonio Visbal, Dr. Nathan Ek, Dr. Brian McPherson, Dr. Jessica Moore, Dr. Grace Zheng, Barbara Effenberger (BRH Vice President, Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer), Samantha Saudino (BRH Interim Vice President, Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Officer), and Jorge VanSlyke (BRH President and Chief Executive Officer).