We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Theresa Alida van der Goes—a remarkable physician, educator, and leader in Family Medicine.
Theresa’s impact on the UBC Faculty of Medicine and the Department of Family Practice has been profound. As a community Family Physician in Nanaimo, she cared for patients across clinical settings with skill and compassion. Beyond her clinical practice, Theresa was a pioneering force in assessment and evaluation, shaping the educational experience of countless residents across British Columbia.
From her early role in establishing the Nanaimo site to becoming the first Assessment Director for the UBC Postgraduate Family Medicine Program, Theresa’s leadership helped guide one of Canada’s largest family medicine residency programs. Her contributions were instrumental in building a fair, transparent, and evidence-informed approach to assessment that has become a national standard.
Recognized with the CAME Certificate of Merit Award in 2021, Theresa was celebrated for her thoughtful mentorship, intellectual rigor, and deep commitment to education. Even after retiring in 2022, she remained a trusted voice of wisdom and fairness.
She will be dearly missed and long remembered.
Family Medicine Residency Site: Abbotsford-Mission 