AADMD Board Member Spotlight: Alicia Thatcher MD, CCFP

Get to know the board members who tirelessly keep the AADMD going. 

Alicia Thatcher MD, CCFP

Occupation: Canadian Family Physician

Board Position: Secretary/Parliamentarian

Number of Years on Board: 3.5

What is your favorite part about working with people with IDD?

I get to learn from my patients every day! People with IDD have taught me so much over the years and it has made me a better doctor and a better person.

What’s your origin story? How did you get into IDD?

When I was a high school student, I applied for a summer job at a camp for people of all ages with IDD. At the time, I had no idea that this experience would change the trajectory of my career! I became involved with Special Olympics, Best Buddies, and other local organizations. When I started medical school, it was immediately apparent that a huge gap exists in the medical field for people with disabilities, especially as they age out of the pediatric system.

Do you have any recent projects you would like to highlight?

Throughout my training, I advocated for medical education content to be more inclusive of people with disabilities. Now that I've entered clinical practice, I'm excited to be implementing new curriculum so future health care providers are better prepared to provide inclusive care to all patients.

What’s your best healthcare advice for people with disabilities?

Seeing your doctor or dentist is important — not only when you are sick, but also when you are feeling good. When we see our patients regularly, we can catch things early before they become more serious and make sure you continue feeling good physically and mentally.

What’s your best advice to someone who wants to study IDD healthcare? 

Find mentors in the IDD healthcare field, learn directly from people with disabilities, and join the AADMD!