“We are determined to optimize the care we provide, ensuring that everyone who requires it receives the support they need.” — Dr. Sharon Smile

There are plenty of factors that contribute to BC Children’s being ranked among the top 10 children’s hospitals in the world. A significant one? Its ability to attract the top medical minds and empower them to unleash their full potential.

Dr. Sharon Smile is one of these outstanding health care professionals. Recently appointed as the Division Head for Developmental Pediatrics and a Hospital Chair for Developmental Pediatrics, Dr. Smile brings a wealth of experience. She was previously a developmental pediatrician at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital and a clinician investigator at the Bloorview Research Institute. We spoke with Dr. Smile about her ambitions for developmental care and more possibilities fuelled by donor support.

Q: WHAT ADVANCES IN DEVELOPMENTAL PEDIATRICS ARE YOU ESPECIALLY EXCITED ABOUT?

A: Technology is showing incredible promise in transforming pediatric rehabilitation care. For example, we’re exploring the potential of using virtual reality in our acute rehabilitation unit to create immersive and engaging physical therapy experiences, which can enhance children’s upper-limb function, balance and activities of daily living.

Q: WHEN YOU IMAGINE THE FUTURE OF DEVELOPMENTAL CARE, WHAT ARE YOU MOST OPTIMISTIC ABOUT?

A: I’m excited about our goal to embed and integrate research into care—and to implement strategies that support early diagnosis and meaningful interventions for neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder and cerebral palsy. I also look forward to working collaboratively with other divisions—including adolescent medicine, neurology, orthopedics and child psychiatry—to break down clinical and research silos. Our ultimate goal is to create integrated health services that are centered around the child, youth and family, while also optimizing subspeciality care and community services to ensure the best possible outcomes for our province’s children and youth.

Q: HOW ARE EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION BEING INTEGRATED INTO YOUR APPROACH TO CARE?

A: Our initial focus is on identifying children and families who aren’t currently accessing our programs and clinics—and understanding the reasons behind this. We’re also committed to implementing equitable and inclusive recruitment practices for new staff, ultimately striving for a team that reflects the diversity and rich cultural knowledge of the population we serve. This isn’t work that has a finish line. Rather, it’s a daily commitment to examining the care we provide and identifying ways to ensure that everyone who needs our services accesses them.