Record number of doctors commence work in Downs after pandemic

A record number of intern doctors have begun working in hospitals around the Darling Downs, fulfilling a need for experienced health workers following the pandemic.

HEALTHCARE HEROES: 46 new doctors have started the next phase of their careers with Darling Downs Health.

In the wake of the pandemic hitting the region, Darling Downs Health has a record number of intern doctors starting work in towns across the district.

Forty-six new doctors have commenced work at hospitals and GP clinics in towns like Toowoomba, Clifton, Goondiwindi, Stanthorpe, and Warwick this year after completing mandatory training at Toowoomba Hospital with experienced doctors.

Dr Tess Hazel is one of this year’s interns continuing at Toowoomba Hospital after spending her clinical years at a smaller, rural hospital.

“I loved it,” Dr Hazel said.

“You get to know everybody, it’s more hands-on, and you have more access to the community, which I’m excited to be part of.”

Fellow intern Dr Nathaniel Price is another young doctor who chose Toowoomba Hospital after spending his final year of medical school in Ballarat.

“Coming home to Queensland was a big attraction, I’m really looking forward to getting some experience in emergency and general surgery and I’m excited for the year in general,” he said.

Dr Nicolas Dore grew up in Roma and knew the bush was where he wanted to work and expand his skills.

He is another 2021 intern looking to advance his career in a non-metropolitan setting.

“When I finished training I wanted to come back to the bush and Toowoomba was the option closest to home,” Dr Dore said.

“I’d like to end up being a GP, so I’m doing the Queensland Rural Generalist Pathway and hoping to do an advanced skill in emergency or psychiatry.”

Darling Downs Health Chief Executive Dr Peter Gillies welcomed the record number of interns, who started on their ward rounds in mid-January.

“It was an absolute pleasure to welcome our 46 interns, which is a record intake, to Darling Downs Health,” Dr Gillies said.

“After orientation at Toowoomba Hospital in mid-January the majority have continued their intern year here, while others have gone to locations including Stanthorpe and Warwick hospitals, as well as general practices in Toowoomba, Clifton and Goondiwindi.

“Ten of this year’s interns have joined the Queensland Rural Generalist Pathway, in preparation for careers in general practice in regional areas, which is great to see given the number of rural and regional communities we serve.”