Barb Lawrie

Job Title
VP Professional Practice and Chief Clinical Information Officer

Department/Location
Corporate office at 601 West Broadway

How long have you worked at VCH?
My first job as a nurse in Vancouver was at VGH on CP- West 6 in 1979. Over the course of my career I have worked for Langara College, PHSA and PHC but I always come back to VCH. It has always felt like home to me.

Tell us what you do at VCH in one or two sentences:
I oversee Professional Practice across VCH and provide clinical leadership within CST to achieve a significant transformation of clinical practices and systems.

What’s your favourite thing about your work?
There are so many: Great colleagues, a talented team, , flexibility, variety, interesting challenges and LOTS of them. Right now one of the things I am the most excited about is the introduction of technology into care and how technology if used smartly – and together with common workflows and practices – can transform care.

How does your work contribute to the VCH True North goals?
The work both within professional practice and CST are closely aligned with “providing the best care”. Successful design and implementation of CST will decrease variability in care and lead to better patient outcomes

One thing we might be surprised to learn about you:
I was a high school dropout- then I discovered nursing. The smartest thing I ever did in my life besides marrying my husband and having two amazing, awesome kids was becoming a nurse.

Three things you always have in your fridge:
I love to eat so my fridge is full. I could never narrow it down to three things!

Who or what inspires you?
The dedication our staff have for the patients/residents and families they provide care to.

Most healthy habit:
Swimming in the morning before work.

Favourite vacation spot:
New York.