Innovation and technology can help empower women and girls. Yet a growing digital divide means that women are underrepresented in fields like science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). At BC Women's Hospital we are fortunate to have many incredible women dedicated to improving the health of women, newborns and families.
One of these extraordinary women is - Julie van Schalkwyk - Site Head at the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and BC Women's Clinical Associate Professor, University of British Columbia.
A leader in women's health, Dr Julie van Schalkwyk is a domain expert in infectious diseases in pregnancy. Dr. van Schalkwyk is not only an inspiring woman in STEM, but is a dedicated advocate for improving the health and lives of women at risk of sepsis and other infectious diseases. She is Chair of the Infectious Diseases Committee of the Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Canada and a member of the Infectious Diseases Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG). She is past Chair of the Infection Control Committee at BC Women's and BC Children's Hospitals and is involved in Quality Care Assurance at BCW. Her research interests include HIV, HBV, HCV, surgical site infection, fever in labor and predictors of intra-amniotic infection and maternal sepsis. Dr. van Schalkwyk provides specialized care for women with reproductive infectious diseases at two BC Women's clinics in addition to general obstetrics and gynaecology in the community.
On this day of recognition – International Women's Day – we recognize Dr Julie van Schalkwyk and her aim to provide women with education and empower them to make informed choices about their health care.
Do you know a woman making a difference in STEM? This International Women's Day, celebrate her achievements using the hashtag #InnovateForChange #WomenInSTEM!
