Dr Michael Chambers retires from Dee Why General Practice
While patients still have the same ailments they had 40 years ago, they worry more, according to a Sydney GP about to retire. Dr Michael Chambers reveals how his patients’ needs have changed during his long career.
A traditional family GP who has delivered 2000 babies on the northern beaches is retiring after 44 years.
Dr Michael Chambers, 69, of Dee Why General Practice, said there was no greater joy than being at the birth of a healthy newborn.
Incredibly, on four occasions he has even delivered the baby of a parent he had also delivered.
“To be at the birth of a healthy child to a happy couple is a privilege,” he said.
Although on the very rare occasions when there had been complications or a baby was stillborn, it was really tough.
“There’s counselling for mums and dads, but not for the doctor behind the curtain who is shedding a tear,” Dr Chambers said.
He added that being a family doctor meant being there when times were hard.
But, knowing a family and building relationships with all the family members over hundreds of consultations was incredibly satisfying for both parties.
“You get to know people and I can see when they come through the door how they’re travelling,” he said.
Dr Chambers, started with a small practice in Narraweena, before combining with another GP at Dee Why.
He said over the years the types of ailments had not changed, but he had noticed people worried more.
He said there was too much information available on the internet, which can frighten patients.
He also added our fast-paced lifestyle was also putting pressure on families.
“Mum and dad are now working and they want instant care for their children,” Dr Chambers said.
“It’s a rat race society, so if a child has a cold they want it fixed straight away.
“Or if someone has diabetes they want a tablet, rather than exercising, changing their diet and lifestyle.”
Dr Chambers, who has three children and five grandchildren, said he had enjoyed great job satisfaction during his long career which will end in February.
He said he was looking forward to nice holidays and seeing more of his family.
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