In 2017, at a time in his life when most people would be embracing retirement, Dr. Jeffrey Turnbull decided to ramp up his work, leaving his job of almost a decade as Chief of Staff at The Ottawa Hospital to dedicate his life to helping people experiencing homelessness.
Dr. Turnbull, a specialist in internal medicine, has long pursued an interest in poverty and its effect on health. And as one of the founders and long-time medical director of Ottawa Inner City Health, he helped pioneer programs to curb addictions and support mental health, create supportive housing, and even provide palliative care.
Affectionately known by his patients there as Dr. T, he is also the recipient of many awards, including the Order of Canada, the Order of Ontario, and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
In 2023, Dr. Turnbull officially retired from his role at Ottawa Inner City Health but remains a pivotal figure in Ottawa healthcare.
