Dr. Jennifer Ingram
Dr. K. Jennifer Ingram, MD, FRCPC, D.Sc. (hon), epitomizes excellence and dedication in the field of geriatric medicine. A graduate of Queens University medical school, Dr. Ingram's journey towards becoming a trailblazer in healthcare began with specialization in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine in London, Ontario. She honed her expertise in Oakville and Mississauga before making a significant move to Peterborough in 1987, a decision that would shape the landscape of geriatric care in the region for decades to come.
From the outset of her career, Dr. Ingram recognized the pressing need for collaborative care models to support older adults, particularly those grappling with cognitive concerns. She forged alliances with primary care physicians across central east Ontario, training staff at over 30 primary care sites to conduct evaluations for cognitive issues, thus expanding the reach of geriatric care in the community.
Dr. Ingram's commitment to revolutionizing healthcare for seniors has been unwavering. She played a pivotal role in founding the Seniors Care Network and establishing twelve fully funded interprofessional Nurse Practitioner-led GAIN Geriatric Teams across central east Ontario, which over a decade later remain an exemplary program initiative in Ontario. GAIN teams ensure that rural seniors with complex health issues had access to quality care, and support up to 6000 seniors annually to live at home. As the founder of the Kawartha Centre, she provided individuals with dementia access to cutting-edge research options and international clinical trials in a community setting.
Dr. Ingram's impact extended beyond local initiatives. Her expertise was sought after by organizations like the Provincial Geriatrics Leadership Ontario, Ontario Dementia Care Alliance, and the Trent Centre for Aging and Society. Recognized for her groundbreaking community-focused work, Dr. Ingram was named the Ontario Co-Lead of the CIHR-funded Team 19 ROSA Study, looking at the management of Alzheimer Dementia in primary care, further solidifying her reputation as a leader in geriatric research. Her tireless advocacy efforts earned her prestigious awards, including the Glenn Sawyer Award from the Ontario Medical Association, the Community Leadership Award from Trent University and the Irma Parhad Award from a Consortium of Canadian Cognitive Research Centres.
In addition to her clinical and research endeavors, Dr. Ingram's commitment to advocacy knows no bounds. She has tirelessly campaigned for senior-focused policies and equitable access to healthcare, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of policy changes that allowed supportive caregivers alongside patients in hospital and in care facilities.
Dr. Ingram's colleagues tell us that she is known for her ability to navigate complex social, family and legal dynamics and foresee the broader implications of cognitive diseases. Her involvement in clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease has positioned the Kawartha Centre as a sought-after research site, and Geriatric Medicine clinic further cementing her legacy as a pioneer in bringing clinical and academic research to our community.
Driven by an insatiable curiosity and an unwavering dedication to addressing unmet needs in the geriatric population, Dr. Ingram's visionary leadership has left an indelible mark on the medical profession and the communities she has served. Her service is not just outstanding; it is unparalleled, leaving a lasting, positive effect for generations to come
