Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
Research
Omega-3 and Fetal Development
Researchers from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry have identified Omega-3 supplementation as a potential intervention to counteract the harmful effects of prenatal cannabis exposure. Using rat models, the study found that Omega-3, specifically DHA and EPA, prevented low birth weight and early cardiac dysfunction in offspring exposed to THC in utero. Published in Scientific Reports, this is the first study to demonstrate that a widely accessible dietary supplement could mitigate the developmental risks associated with cannabis use during pregnancy.
Sustainability Leadership in Healthcare
Dr Anna Gunz, a paediatric intensive care physician and associate professor, received the 2025 Western Climate and Sustainability Award for her leadership in advancing sustainability in healthcare. She leads initiatives like the Children’s Environmental Health Clinic and the Land-based Healing Program, integrating environmental health, clinical care, and advocacy. Her work promotes greener hospital practices and highlights the connection between climate change and children’s health.
Teaching
MA in Advanced Health Care: Diverse Specializations
The Advanced Health Care Practice master’s program at Western is a unique, one-year, course-based initiative designed for seasoned healthcare professionals seeking graduate-level education in specialized fields.
The program offers eight distinct fields of study:
- Clinical epidemiology and research management
- Sport and exercise medicine
- Upper extremity rehabilitation
- Comprehensive musculoskeletal physiotherapy
- Wound healing
- Interdisciplinary pain management
- Health equity and sustainability
- Applied health sciences
Global Health Systems
The Global Health Systems program is a one-year professional master’s degree focusing on international health, particularly in marginalized populations. Students have the opportunity to discuss solutions to issues in low- or middle-income countries while gaining the knowledge and skills to become leaders in this growing and dynamic field.
Community Service Learning
The Community Service Learning program offers undergraduate dental students opportunities for community service and engagement. They provide services at placements in local clinics and community sites in Southwestern Ontario. The program aims to provide person-centred and trauma-informed oral health treatment to equity-seeking community members.
Outreach
MedLINCs Summer Elective Program
Through Schulich Medicine’s Distributed Education, 
the MedLINCs program places first- and second-year medical students within the Chippewas of Nawash community in the Grey-Bruce region. Over four weeks, students engage local youth through health-focused activities, hands-on learning, and traditional summer camp experiences. In partnership with the Chippewas of Nawash Community Health Centre, the program promotes interest in health-related careers and post-secondary education while strengthening community connections.
Black Youth Mental Health Community-Based Project
This project engages Black students in Grades 7, 8, 11, and 12 to better understand and support their mental health needs. In partnership with two schools in Windsor, the initiative includes focus groups, mental health workshops, and knowledge mobilization activities. By centering youth voices, the project aims to advance culturally responsive mental health supports and reduce barriers to well-being.
Rural Medicine Outreach Club
The Rural Medicine Outreach Club broadens students’ exposure to rural healthcare by highlighting diverse medical practices across Southwestern Ontario. In partnership with the Distributed Education Office at Schulich and rural community stakeholders, the club organizes talks, hospital visits, and outreach programs to promote rural health careers. Through initiatives like Discovery Healthcare Summer Camp, interactive workshops, and virtual career fairs, the club supports secondary students in rural areas by offering mentorship and accessible career exploration opportunities in medicine and healthcare.
Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging
The Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging is a unique national research and education centre within the Faculty of Health Sciences at Western promoting physical activity and well-being for older adults. Its education and leadership training programs instruct thousands of individuals across Canada through exercise classes, conferences, certifications, and more to enhance the functional fitness of older adults at every level of mobility.
Operations
Wellness Support
Health & Wellness Services offers free, confidential services to help students achieve personal, social, and academic goals. Services include consultations, referrals, therapy, workshops, and group sessions. Centralizing all services supports a holistic care model with a single intake for medical and counseling services and wellness education. The newly renovated Thames Hall features a central atrium adorned with a living wall. With plenty of natural lights, the study space is infused with beautiful scenery and nature sounds.
PurpleCare
PurpleCARE enhances student well-being through essential health services:
- My Virtual Doctor: Ensures 24/7 access to virtual healthcare across Canada, featuring multilingual support, quick consultations, and comprehensive medical services such as diagnosis, prescriptions, and specialist referrals.
- My Student Plan: Offers coverage for prescription drugs, vision, dental care, and mental health counselling, supplementing provincial health insurance.
- Emotional / Mental Wellness: Provides resources for mental health challenges, including assessments, video counselling, and balancing tools.
PurpleCARE is committed to providing affordable and accessible health and wellness coverage to help students thrive both academically and personally.
Mary J. Wright Child and Youth Development Clinic
Western’s Mary J. Wright Clinic provides accessible psychological services to children and youth aged 3 to 18 years, supporting well-being and success in school and life. Graduate students, supervised by licensed psychologists, offer assessments and treatments grounded in evidence-based, inclusive, and strength-based approaches. The clinic serves families from diverse backgrounds and integrates research, teaching, and practice to deliver personalized care.
