GP Profile – Dr Jian Li

It was the personal touch that appealed to Dr Jian Li when she decided to become a GP after a stint at working in the hospital system. Continuity of care is important as she supports her patients through their many life stages.

 

How long have you been a GP and how long have you been practising in South Western Sydney?

I graduated from TianJin Medical University in China in 1994 and, after working at Westmead hospital, I began my formal training as a GP in 2010.

After completing my GP training, I joined Prestons Medical Centre, and I have been there for more than 10 years. During this time, I have had the privilege of serving the South Western Sydney community, developing a deep understanding of the healthcare needs and challenges faced by the local population.

My experience here has enriched my skills and strengthened my commitment to delivering patient-centred care, contributing to the wellbeing of families and individuals across the region.

 

When/why did you decide you wanted to become a GP?

My decision to pursue general practice training took shape during my time as a resident in the hospital. It was there that I realised how much I valued continuity of care, forming long-term relationships with patients and supporting them through different stages of their health journey.

The opportunity to provide holistic care, not just for acute medical conditions, but also for chronic and preventive care, deeply resonated with me. I am particularly passionate about seeing patients recover and improve, whether from acute illnesses or managing ongoing health challenges.

The privilege of being involved in their journey towards better health and wellbeing is incredibly fulfilling, and it reaffirmed my desire to become a GP, where I could have a lasting impact on my patients’ lives.

 

What do you love most about being a GP?

As a GP, the most rewarding aspect of my role is the trust that patients place in me. This trust is invaluable, as it allows patients to openly share their concerns, emotions, and health challenges. Building these deep, meaningful relationships over time gives me the opportunity to provide more personalised and comprehensive care. It’s particularly gratifying when patients seek my guidance not only for immediate medical issues but also for broader aspects of their wellbeing.

As an antenatal shared care GP, one of the most fulfilling parts of my job is sharing in the joy of expectant mothers during their pregnancy journey and playing a role in caring for their newborns. Being involved in such pivotal moments of life, from prenatal care to watching newborns thrive, is both a privilege and a source of immense satisfaction.

This continuity of care across generations is one of the unique and beautiful aspects of being a GP, offering a holistic view of family health that few other specialties provide.

 

What is the most important thing your practice contributes to the community?

At Prestons Medical Centre we aim to ensure our doors are always open to patients, providing accessible and comprehensive care. We are deeply committed to being a reliable healthcare resource for everyone, offering a safe and supportive environment where patients can seek medical attention without barriers.

Our goal is to deliver care the community can trust: care that addresses not just immediate health concerns, but also promotes long-term wellbeing.

Even during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, we remained dedicated to providing face-to-face consultations whenever possible. This unwavering commitment to serving our community, especially during times of crisis, is something in which we take immense pride.

 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I love spending quality time with my family. We enjoy traveling together and exploring new places, learning about different cultures, traditions, and, of course, trying out new cuisines.

Whether it’s a local trip or an adventure abroad, we always make the most of our time together, creating lasting memories and sharing new experiences as a family.

 

What do you love the most about the area?

What I love most about Prestons is the incredible diversity of the community. The area is home to people from many different cultural backgrounds, which makes providing care as a GP both fulfilling and interesting. I enjoy working with patients from all walks of life and feel fortunate to support such a vibrant, multicultural population.

I am also able to assist Mandarin-speaking patients who might otherwise face language barriers when accessing healthcare. Being able to connect with patients in their native language helps build trust and ensures they feel understood and supported in their care.

The area’s family-friendly environment, with great access to schools, parks, and shopping, makes it a wonderful place to live and work. There’s a strong sense of community here, which makes my role as a GP even more rewarding.

 

What advice do you give your patients to maintain good health?

My advice for maintaining good health starts with the basics: nourishing your body with a balanced diet and incorporating regular physical activity like walking or exercise into your routine. Staying active is not only great for your physical health but also supports your mental wellbeing.

I also encourage my patients to keep up with their regular health screenings, as these can catch potential issues early, giving us the best chance to address them proactively.

If you smoke, I strongly recommend quitting, as it’s one of the most impactful things you can do for your long-term health. Limiting alcohol intake is also important, as moderation can help protect your overall wellbeing.

Above all, I always remind my patients that taking small, consistent steps towards healthier habits makes a big difference over time, and I’m here to support them on that journey.