Testimonial: Rohan and Paul
What interests you most about General Practice?
General Practice offers me the chance to meet people who are not yet the "sick patient". Unlike the hospital in-patient setting where most patients you encounter are already ill, GP offers the opportunity to identify, discuss, treat and manage health issues earlier to help the person to achieve better health outcomes. This primary care is what I love! The chance to meet a person and work together with them to identify things that may potentially be causing worse health outcomes and then working with them to find ways to improve their health. GP allows a partnership to form between the person and the doctor so that better health is achieved for the person within the boundaries of what they want and the advice and help the doctor gives. GP is a collaboration between the patient and the doctor based around understanding, trust and respect.
What aspects of your life in WA do you enjoy the most?
A: I love rural WA....The people, the land and the lifestyle. Being a country lad myself, I love getting back out bush with the locals....Some of the best work you can do as a rural doctor is due to becoming involved in the community...It’s amazing what can be discussed over a barbecued sausage around a fire!
In your own words describe the Going Places Network
(Formally known as the Compass Program)
A: The compass program is about getting General Practice into the minds of junior doctors who are in the hospitals. The program lets junior doctors know that GP is still around and is an option open to them. This allows those doctors who are considering GP to easily find someone to talk with about GP, get more information and know that they are not alone.
What benefits do you think the program will bring to you personally?
The program reinforces my own love of GP and strengthens my commitment to GP. It also allows me to find support from other people and agencies that are also committed to GP. Networking is very important!!
What benefits do you think the program will bring to your peers?
Often the demands of been a junior doctor causes the doctor to think only of what they are doing now, not looking toward a long term career plan. The program allows some focus for those considering GP, in that it provides support, information and a referral service. For those who are not considering GP the program still gives them information and a reminder that GP is "still around"... The program gives these doctors options.
What is the best way for doctors to get in touch with you if they would like to know more about General Practice?
I am available on my mobile and via email. We can arrange a time to have a coffee and a yarn. I am very open to having a chat about GP at any time... even in the hospital corridor or in the middle of surgery!
What advice would you give to medical students and overseas trained doctors considering a career as a GP in WA?
Simply to become involved.
The best way to find out if GP is for you is to get experience in the area. This may be by doing a PGPPP or (in the medical student case) using the GP student placements as a way to "test the waters". Be proactive in seeking opportunities to do some GP activities. A medical student elective in GP is a good start. And use the opportunity to see patients on your own.
Research the area you are going to...Know something about the people and about the town.
