CASEM Across Canada – Get to Know: Dr. Lydia Schultz

How long have you been a member of CASEM?

I have been a member of CASEM since 2018 and received my Diploma in Sport Medicine in 2022.

Any tips or advice for new members?

My advice to new CASEM members is to say ‘yes’ to opportunities to get involved – while being mindful of work-life balance of course!

I have found there is so much to be gained (education, networks, friendships) from attending conferences and courses, covering various sports and types of events, joining committees, etc., especially for new physicians attempting to build their ideal Sports Medicine practice.

A highlight for me was participating in the CASEM Mentorship Program in 2022 where I received invaluable guidance around my transition to practice and planning for specific goals in my career. My experience with CASEM is that it has been a welcoming and supportive group, with lots of resources to help you succeed in this field, so I would encourage new members to experience all there is to offer.

What has been your biggest professional achievement?

My biggest professional achievement has been becoming part of the Skate Canada medical team. As a former competitive figure skater, it was a longstanding goal of mine to give back to the sport by providing medical coverage for Skate Canada and the International Skating Union, so receiving my first international assignment as a Team Canada Physician in 2022 and serving as Chief Medical Officer for the ISU World Junior Figure Skating Championships in 2023 seemed like a dream come true!

What’s a project you’re working on right now?

I am part of the CASEM Continuing Professional Development Committee that is working on creating the first CASEM Wellness Course. Medicine is an incredibly rewarding, but demanding profession, and I feel it is important to create spaces where physicians can learn about and practice wellness, because when physicians are physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy, it can only benefit patient care, and more.

I am also the current site lead for the new location of the Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic that has recently opened in London, ON. It has been exciting to be involved in an administrative role helping to plan the ways the clinic can best serve the community and support people in staying active for life.

Highlight everything and anything you’re working on right now that you’d like to share with the members.

I am currently Co-Chief Medical Officer for the Ontario Summer Games scheduled to take place in London, ON from August 1-4, 2024. The Games are a great introduction to multi-sport event coverage and promise to be a lot of fun! All CASEM members are invited to be a part of the medical team 😊