Welcoming our new junior doctor

Tom will join the Ochre Medical Centre Scottsdale in April, where he will spend 13 weeks exploring rural medicine in a program funded by the Federal Department of Health.
The Rural Junior Doctor Training Innovation Fund is a community-based program designed to encourage more doctors to choose a rural general practice career. The program is the first of a number of programs that train, mentor and support doctors as they acquire experience in rural medicine through different stages of their training.

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We asked Tom a few questions about himself:

Where are you from?

Originally I’m from Perth, WA but I lived in the Huon Valley since I was 10-years-old. I’ve lived in Launceston for the last 3 and a half years with my wife and plan to stay in the north permanently.

Where did you do your medical degree?

UTAS – first 3 years in Hobart, then last 2 years of it in Launceston at the LGH.

What made you decide on medicine as a career?

I like to be challenged by my work and to have the opportunity to improve the lives of my patients.

What did you do before embarking on a medical pathway?

I did medicine as an undergraduate, so I started right away after finishing year 12.

What do you think you will enjoy and gain from your rural placement?

I’ve previously spent a term as a student at the Ochre practice in Scottsdale, which I found very rewarding. I’m most looking forward to the joint relationship between the practice, the  NESMH, and the adjoining nursing homes.

What specialties interest you?

My interest is in palliative care through the general practice pathway.

Have you been to Scottsdale before?

Yes, I had a 6 week placement as a medical student in my final year of training towards the end of 2019 and greatly enjoyed my time.

What are your impressions of the region where you are going to do your rural placement?

Because of the distance from the LGH I expect to see a wide range of presentations. I’m also looking forward to a more laid-back place to live and work than in one of the major centres.

What hobbies and interests do you have outside of your career?

I love to cook, play guitar, and do renovation work on our home. I’m also hoping to get into woodwork once we have a home with space for a workshop.

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