June 26, 2024
Dr. Jaco Hoffman receives the 2024 Rhapsody Physician Award from Dr. Christine Ellis, board chair of the Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP), at a special celebration event held in Olds on June 13. Photo supplied.
Story by Jonathan Koch
OLDS — A local physician is being recognized for his dedication to the well-being of his patients and his community.
Dr. Jaco Hoffman is the recipient of the 2024 Rhapsody Rural Physician Award, presented annually by the Alberta Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP). The award is given to an outstanding rural physician who’s made a long-term positive impact in their community.
Described by RhPAP as a “calm and reassuring” family physician, Dr. Hoffman garnered 15 letters of support from community members, praising his “tireless efforts and exemplary attitude toward rural medicine and community enhancement.
“Dr. Hoffman has dedicated the past 14 years to living and working as a family physician at the Olds Hospital and Care Centre and has made a profound impact on the community through his love for improving the health and quality of life for his patients,” reads the awards announcement. Originally from South Africa, Dr. Hoffman began his Alberta career in Provost before moving to Olds in 2010.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Hoffman performs rotations in the emergency room and long-term care, and also mentors medical residents and student nurses who come to Olds Hospital. He also serves as interim zone medical director for AHS Central Zone.
Registered nurse Lindsey Merrells shares how she’s experienced Dr. Hoffman’s calm and reassuring nature as both a colleague and a patient.
“He's so kind to his patients; he has the biggest heart,” she says. “He gives everybody his time and undivided attention, you never feel rushed. He's easy to talk to and he really listens and really cares — you just know that you're in good hands.”
Fellow RN Heather Venneman praises the team spirit Hoffman nurtures among his operating room colleagues.
“We feel safe being able to bounce ideas off each other, and the team and the patient definitely benefits from it because we're not afraid to say what we feel, or share ideas we may have,” adds Venneman. “I've been in some pretty serious critical incidents with Dr. Hoffman, with very good outcomes, and I believe that's because he fosters that safe-team dynamic.”
Hoffman is also credited as being integral to the growth of the Olds Hospital’s surgical program — from providing obstetrics and general surgery, to also offering orthopedic, urologic, gynecologic and podiatric surgeries.
Colleague and surgeon Dr. Keith Wolstenholme attests to the positive impact of his friend in Olds.
“There's probably nobody who does more for the patients in their community,” says Wolstenholme. “In addition to being an anesthesiologist, he also works in the emergency department, (plus) he has a family practice, he delivers babies still.
“This guy really is the epitome of the old-school country doctor who just does everything for everyone.”
Gloria Ulry prepared Dr. Hoffman’s nomination. The Olds Health Professional Attraction and Retention Committee member found it a pleasure talking to people who appreciate his service, and to read the testimonials from others.
“I know there's hundreds more out in the community,” adds Ulry. “Our community at large would be very proud that Dr. Hoffman received this reward as well.”
Her message to the good doctor?
“Congratulations for being the man and the father and husband that you are. You deserve this.”
