Dr Dong Hua’s Kenyon St Medical Centre at Fairfield is among four general practices in South Western Sydney selected to run the Commonwealth-funded GP-led respiratory clinics. Dr Hua says it’s a significant challenge but he’s optimistic about defeating the COVID-19 pandemic.
How long have you been a GP and how long have you been practising in Fairfield?
I have been a GP for 15 years (including registrar training) and have been practising in Fairfield since 2008.
When/why did you decide you wanted to become a GP?
I decided that I wanted to become a GP during internship having realised that the best way to obtain continuity of care of patients is to become the primary health provider.
What do you love most about being a GP/what part of the job gives you the most satisfaction?
I love GP work because of its diversity of presentations and it allows me to pursue some of my special interests, with one being medical acupuncture. The greatest satisfaction I get is when patients report a better quality of life, whether its placebo or not, particularly when traditional treatments have failed.
What is the most important thing you/your practice contributes to this community?
My practice has been important in providing a multidisplinary approach in enhancing patients’ health. This has been achieved by the talented and hardworking allied health team at Kenyon St Medical Centre at Fairfield. We cater for everyone and more recently our staff has been involved with NDIS patients. We have been rewarded with the local business award for most outstanding health services category last year and this year we made it to the finals of Australian small business champion awards. An amazing feat for which I am proud of each of my staff for their significant contributions. More recently, we have been selected to open respiratory/COVID-19 clinics in Fairfield and Campbelltown. A significant challenge but I am optimistic we as a country can win this war against the pandemic.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I rarely have spare time these days but I do love the spend it with my wife and two children.
Tell me about your ideal day…
My ideal day is sitting in front of TV and watching the Parramatta Eels win.
What do you love most about Fairfield?
Fairfield is culturally diverse and despite being a low socioeconomic area, a lot of the people who are immigrants (myself included) are grateful for having a chance at a better life.
What advice do you give your patients about maintaining good health?
Be active, stay safe and remember to practice social distancing (in this pandemic)!