Dr. Mihaela Lapuste, M.D., CCFP
Dr. Mihaela Lapuste graduated in 1997 from the Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, and completed her family practice residency in Vancouver in 2009.
From 2009 to 2015, Dr. Lapuste worked as a family practitioner at Vancouver Family Health Centre. Her interests include family health care, geriatric care, diabetes, skin conditions, pediatrics, and preventive care. She is married, a mother of five, and enjoys an active lifestyle that includes hiking and biking.
Dr. Mischa Snopkowski, M.D., CCFP, B.Sc.
Dr. Mischa Snopkowski is pleased to be part of the North Shore family practice community as a family physician with Lions Gate Medical Clinic. He is interested in full-spectrum family practice, from infants to the elderly.
Originally from Victoria, Dr. Snopkowski returned to the west coast after eight years in Alberta, where he graduated from medical school at the University of Alberta and completed residency at the University of Calgary. Outside of medicine, he enjoys outdoor recreation and exploring the natural beauty around North Vancouver.
Dr. Shelley Chin, M.D., CCFP
Dr. Shelley Chin grew up in White Rock, B.C., and completed a degree in European art and architecture at the University of British Columbia. After discovering her calling in medicine, she completed her medical degree at Saba University School of Medicine.
She completed her Family Medicine residency training through the University of British Columbia, Coastal Site, where she trained on the North Shore. She is interested in full-spectrum family practice with a special focus on women's health, mental health, and geriatric medicine. Outside of medicine, she enjoys an active lifestyle with her husband, including road cycling, paddleboarding, snowboarding, hiking, and running.
Front Desk Staff / Medical Office Assistants
Savana Bowen
Savana grew up on the North Shore and graduated with honours from the Medical Office Administration program at VCC in 2025, beginning full-time work shortly after completing her studies. She has always had a strong interest in healthcare and enjoys supporting both patients and physicians to help ensure the clinic runs smoothly and efficiently.
Savana is always looking for ways to improve clinic efficiency and workflow while creating a welcoming and positive experience for patients. She values teamwork and takes pride in supporting both patients and staff within the clinic. Outside of work, she enjoys playing hockey and spending time with her family and friends.
Maria Joaquin
Maria graduated in 2025 from Douglas College with an Associate of Science, specializing in biology. At the same time, she completed her Medical Administrative Assistant certification at Western Community College. Shortly after graduating, she began working full-time at Lions Gate Medical Clinic.
She is passionate about biological sciences and cats. Outside of work, Maria enjoys hiking, collecting rocks, going on walks, and reading Mitch Albom books.
