Dre Vivian Nguyen

Translated from French

“I am Dre Vivian Nguyen, a family physician since September 2024. Born and raised in Montreal, in the Anjou neighborhood, I chose to return here after completing my medical training to care for a population I deeply relate to. This connection to my roots allows me to build authentic relationships with my patients.

I am the first physician in my immediate family, which is a great source of pride for me and for my parents, who immigrated from Vietnam in the 1980s and have spent their lives in the same neighborhood as many of my patients. Sharing experiences similar to those of my community enriches my practice and deepens my understanding of their needs.

Family occupies a central place in my life. As an older sister, eldest daughter, and caregiver, I have learned the importance of support, listening, and compassion. These are values I bring to each patient, whom I consider as part of my own family. For me, becoming a physician is a concrete way to help, support, and advocate for the people I care about.

After completing my medical studies at the University of Montreal, I did my family medicine residency at McGill University, at the CLSC de Côte-des-Neiges, working with a vulnerable population in a bilingual and multicultural environment. This experience confirmed my desire to practice close-to-home, human-centered, and inclusive medicine. Today, I am comfortable providing care in French, English, and Vietnamese.

I chose family medicine for the continuity it allows, accompanying my patients from childhood through adulthood and into geriatrics. This continuity enables me to coordinate care, provide attentive follow-up, and offer personalized support, all while building a trusting relationship over time.

My approach to medicine is also inspired by the values I received from my mother, one of the most important people in my life. Despite a challenging path in Vietnam and her role as a homemaker since arriving in Quebec, she taught me perseverance, humility, and the strength to stand up for what matters. These qualities guide my practice every day and shape who I am. I am proud of my origins and the values she passed on to me.

These principles are reflected in my relationships with my patients. I feel especially proud when a patient tells me at the end of a visit: ‘I understand much better what’s happening’ or ‘Thank you for guiding me.’ These moments confirm that listening, clarity, and compassion make a real difference beyond medical knowledge. Knowing that a patient feels informed, respected, and supported is my greatest professional achievement.

Being the first physician in my family and being able to make a tangible difference in the lives of my patients and my community is my greatest pride. Every encounter, every moment of support, is an opportunity to put my values into practice and leave a lasting positive impact.”