Capital Current introduces people who have had an impact on the city.
Who is Dr. Alykhan Abdulla?
Dr. Alykhan Abdulla is a Manotick physician who has practised family medicine for more than 30 years. He is an assistant professor, clinical instructor and director of the Leadership Curriculum at the University of Ottawa Undergraduate Medicine program.
Abdulla is also an outspoken advocate for strengthening Canada’s health-care system.
What’s his background?
After earning his medical degree at the University of Calgary and completing his residency at the University of Toronto, he earned his certification in the College of Family Physicians in 1994 and CFPC Fellowship in 2005.
He has served in several other roles, including chair of the Ontario Medical Association’s Section on General and Family Practice.
“I was drawn to the privilege of walking with patients through every chapter of their lives, from birth to death, and from crisis to growth,” he said in explaining why he chose family medicine.
“What first drew me to medicine was curiosity. I wanted to understand not just illness, but wellness; not just treatment, but meaning,” Abdulla said.
What is he known for in Ottawa?
Abdulla is a strong advocate for improving the structure and sustainability of Canada’s health-care system. He has authored more than 200 publications and participated in more than 150 interviews on radio, television and podcasts.
“We are the health-care system, all of us, together. We can make it better once we convince politicians and policy-makers to step out of the way,” Abdulla wrote in the Ottawa Citizen.
In his writing, Abdulla frequently highlights the cracks in health care, especially its focus on treating illness instead of preventing it. He believes family doctors are the backbone of a sustainable system, yet says most are overwhelmed by paperwork, limited funding and a lack of support to provide consistent, community-based care. In arguing for change, he focuses on prevention, equal access, and stronger doctor-patient relationships.
“I’m passionate about creating care that is truly connected: where geography, income, or background don’t determine health outcomes,” he said.
What do people say about him?
Abdulla’s practice cares for about 5,000 people. His patients and others often speak of him with deep gratitude. In letters to the Ottawa Citizen, readers described him as “a wonderful doctor” and praised his writing for helping Canadians better understand the challenges of the healthcare system.
For example, “We are grateful (and lucky) that Dr. Alykhan Abdulla’s family immigrated to Canada,” wrote Lloyd and Patricia Younger of Brockville.
What’s something people don’t know about him?
When he’s not seeing patients, Abdulla might be found on the badminton court, ballroom floor, or watching a good movie, all while enjoying life with his wife and five children.
