Jen Duff

Job Title
Regional Program Director, Mental Health & Substance Use

Department/Location
Mental Health

How long have you worked at VCH?
Three months as Regional Director; 10 years at PHC.

Tell us what you do at VCH in one or two sentences:
I work closely with leadership in all communities of care across VCH to plan and support the care needs of people living with mental health and/or substance use.

What’s your favourite thing about your work?
Everyday is different!  Not a day goes by when I am not presented with a new challenge.  But, most importantly, everyone I work with is motivated to improve the care and services for people living with mental illness and/or substance use issues.

How does your work contribute to the VCH True North goals?
I am honoured to support the promotion of better health for our communities by leading and participating in needs-based planning.  In addition, in my role as Director at PHC and Regional Director at VCH, with my colleagues, we support the best work force everyday by making programming and operational/clinical decisions that impact our teams and the patients we serve.

One thing we might be surprised to learn about you:
I am 5’3″ tall and played varsity basketball for The University of British Columbia during my undergraduate education!

Three things you always have in your fridge:
Papaya. A take-out container with ‘left-overs’ in it. White wine.

Who or what inspires you?
I am inspired by the resiliency of many of the patients and families we serve – everyday.  I am also inspired by my many hard working colleagues across VCH and PHC whom work tirelessly to make good decisions around planning and resources and advocate for patients, families, and staff.

Most healthy habit:
I am at the gym with my trainer three times a week.  I am completely committed to it!

Favourite vacation spot:
Waikiki Beach at the Moana Surfrider.  Easy question!