Meet Emma Billington, MD, FRCPC
Originally from Vancouver, Emma received her medical degree from the University of Calgary in 2009, followed by residency training in Internal Medicine (2012) and a fellowship in Endocrinology & Metabolism (2014). In 2014–2015, she completed additional fellowship training in osteoporosis at the University of Auckland in New Zealand, before returning to Calgary in 2015 to join the Division of Endocrinology & Metabolism as an Assistant Professor and practicing endocrinologist.
Over the years, she also pursued further training in Culinary Medicine, Intuitive Eating, Clinical Densitometry, and BoneFit. After eight years in clinical practice, Emma joined the PFSP as an Assessment Physician in 2023.
What inspired you to become a PFSP Assessment Physician?
Throughout my training and practice, I’ve always been drawn to mentoring and supporting colleagues and trainees. Having both used and recommended the PFSP support line myself, I knew firsthand how valuable it could be. When I learned that PFSP was hiring new peer support physicians in 2023, it felt like a natural fit, especially as I was looking to bring more variety and balance into my work.
What expectations did you have going into this role, and which of those expectations have been realized?
Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect at first! I worried that I might not always know what to say or how to help. Over time, I’ve learned that the most meaningful thing I can offer is simply to listen and really hear what people are saying. Even when there’s nothing concrete, I can offer in my capacity as a PFSP peer support physician, I’m continually amazed by how much lighter people feel after talking things through.
What has surprised you most about the role when providing peer support?
I’ve been surprised by how many calls come from medical learners. It’s heartening to see that trainees are aware of PFSP and feel comfortable reaching out, but it’s also a reminder of the systemic pressures they face at this early point in their careers.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your role as an Assessment Physician?
It’s incredibly rewarding to help someone feel even a little better by the end of a call than they did at the beginning—and to connect them with resources such as counselling or therapy that can provide ongoing support.
What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of being an Assessment Physician?
The hardest part is knowing that I can’t “fix” everything. When someone is facing a difficult situation without a clear path forward, I often wish that I could do more. Accepting that listening and validating are sometimes the most valuable things I can offer has been an important part of my learning as an AP.
What are some key lessons you have learned when providing peer support as a PFSP Assessment Physician?
When in doubt, just listen. I think this advice works in many different situations!
What peer support advice would you share with AB physicians about caring for their wellness?
It’s not you—and it’s not only you. The current healthcare environment makes it incredibly challenging to practice medicine, and struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing or need to change. If you’re feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or alone, please know that many others feel the same way.
This profession can be isolating because we’re constantly expected to perform and put our best selves forward, but no one should have to navigate those challenges alone. Whether you want to talk through a difficult situation—personal, professional, or anything in between—PFSP is here 24/7, and we’re always happy to take your call. We often underestimate how much it can help to talk things out, and it truly can make a difference.
Please share a quote/statement that best describes your experience when providing peer support as a PFSP Assessment Physician.
Being a PFSP peer support physician has made me incredibly proud to be part of this profession. Alberta physicians are caring, resilient, and deeply committed. You’re all doing a great job!
What interesting/fun fact would you like to share about yourself?
I discovered marathon running a few years ago, and I’m now halfway through my goal of completing all six (now seven!) World Marathon Majors. On the weekends, you’ll often find me looping around the reservoir or river pathways, usually with an audiobook playing in my ear.