Canada Day means home for Dr. Tulay Yigit

Canada Day isn’t just fireworks and flag-waving for Dr. Tulay Yigit, it’s a celebration of belonging. The Turkish-born, U.K.-raised physician found more than a career in Nova Scotia; she found a country that embraces diversity and makes newcomers feel at home. 

Practicing family medicine in Dartmouth, Tulay marks July 1 surrounded by friends and family, grateful to live in a nation that values every culture as part of its identity. 

Tulay studied at Newcastle University in England and has been a doctor for nearly 20 years. She trained in obstetrics and gynecology and after her daughter was born, Tulay yearned for a better work–life balance and made the decision to transition to family medicine. 

Over time, many of her friends and colleagues in the UK had moved elsewhere, leaving her feeling “a bit stuck,” she said. 

In looking for her next home, Tulay says “I considered Australia and New Zealand, but in the end, I chose Canada,” she explained. “The distance played a big role. Canada is just a six-hour flight to London, so it didn’t feel too far. Honestly, when I first arrived, I felt a little out of place, but it quickly started to feel like a natural extension of where I’d come from." 

Following some research and preliminary visits, Nova Scotia won out as her choice because of its proximity to Europe and “the really good vibe” she felt. “I didn’t really enjoy Toronto; it was too busy, with too much going on, and the traffic was overwhelming,” Tulay said. “Then I visited Halifax and it felt calmer, more relaxed and a slower pace of life. People were friendly and that really stood out to me. That visit played a big part in my decision to move here." 

Tulay began practicing in Nova Scotia on her birthday this past January 

While focused on family medicine, she’s also interested in diversifying her practice.   

Family physicians in Nova Scotia have the option to participate in many aspects of care, often combining their office-based practice with low-risk prenatal care, surgical assists, emergency department shifts, long-term care or other services. 

“I also miss operating; I miss doing cesarean sections,” she noted. “I just need some time to find my footing here before thinking about what else I might take on. At the moment, I’m busy onboarding patients and learning to navigate the system.” 

Tulay is eager to witness the advancement of electronic health records as they streamline access to personal medical histories and help unify the healthcare system. 

As she begins her new life in Canada, Tulay hopes to enrich her experience with fulfilling hobbies amongst the demands of both family and career.   

“I want to learn some things; wood working is something I would like to try,” she added, with a laugh. “Canada is great for that craft. There are opportunities - I just need to find the time.”

Photo of Dr. Tulay Yigit of Halifax.