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Ontario College of Family Physicians honours Michael Kirlew with teaching award

A doctor in Sioux Lookout, Ont. is being recognized for his work as a teacher and mentor.

Dr. Michael Kirlew is a teacher and mentor to many aspiring physicians

Sioux Lookout's Dr. Michael Kirlew is being recognized because he's passionate about teaching new residents. (Blue Earth Photography)
Dr. Michael Kirlew is being recognized because he's passionate about teaching new residents. The Sioux Look Out doctor is getting some recognition from his peers. Michael Kirlew has been named Ontario's community teacher of the year.

A doctor in Sioux Lookout, Ont. is being recognized for his work as a teacher and mentor.

Dr. Michael Kirlew has been named Community Teacher of the Year by the Ontario College of Family Physicians. Kirlew said in his role at the Meno Ya Win Hospital he's had the chance to work with many medical students — and it's been a gratifying experience.

"I always find that teaching is where I get my energy from, and it's where my passion is," he said.

"It's great to now see some of our former residents ... complete their studies, and become teachers themselves."

A few years ago Kirlew also began producing a podcast for students on various medical topics, and it is used by family medicine residents across the province.

Kirlew also works in Wapekeka First Nation, and is an assistant professor at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine.

Kirlew said he tries to encourage his students to stay and practise medicine in northern Ontario.