Dr Randa Al-Hajali of Campbelltown Medical and Dental Centre is continually learning and improving her skills through study and webinars, including currently studying for a Double Diploma in Skin Cancer Medicine and Surgery. Get to know Dr Al-Hajali through this month’s GP Profile.
How long have you been a GP and how long have you been practising in the Campbelltown LGA?
I have been a GP since 1998, starting as a part-time Locum, then full-time. I have been practising in Campbelltown since 2001.
When/why did you decide you wanted to become a GP?
I decided to become a GP in 1998 during my Locum work, when I was a senior Resident Medical Officer at St Vincent’s Hospital and planning for specialist training. I like how a GP is involved in patient care and is the first station patients turn up to.
What do you love most about being a GP/what part of the job gives you the most satisfaction?
I love the journey I share with my patients and their families during the course of their illness, providing them with medical and emotional support. I also love the relationship we build with our patients when we become the trusted figures and listening ears in their lives.
What is the most important thing you/your practice contributes to this community?
Apart from the GP services, the most important thing my practice contributes is affordable healthcare for the community. We are fully bulk billed for all allied health and most specialist services. I also provide a skin cancer service (medical and surgical) and antenatal shared care.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
My spare time is the weekend and I usually spend it with my son or friends going out to different places in Sydney and surroundings, or shopping.
Tell me about your ideal work day…
After work I catch up with my study or webinars. At present I’m completing my Double Diploma in Skin Cancer Medicine and Surgery.
What do you love most about the Campbelltown LGA?
I love how Campbelltown is growing fast and has a united multicultural community.
What advice do you give your patients about maintaining good health?
I advise my patients to eat healthy food, exercise regularly, look after their mental wellbeing and stay in high spirits.