Dr Susan Sunwoo from Ashford Avenue Family Practice at Milperra said developing long-term relationships with her patients and getting to know each person and their families was one of the joys of being a GP.
How long have you been a GP and how long have you been practising in Milperra/Bankstown LGA?
I have been a GP for eight years. We have been practising in our current location in Milperra for five years since my husband and I opened our practice together.
When/why did you decide you wanted to become a GP?
The lifestyle and flexibility of being a GP appealed to me when I was trying to decide on a career path. I also couldn’t choose one specific area of medicine I wanted to work in – general practice covers all areas of medicine across all ages.
What do you love most about being a GP/what part of the job gives you the most satisfaction?
I suspect that most GPs would state similarly, but I think one of the joys of being a GP is being able to develop long-term relationships with our patients and to get to know each person and their families. It is humbling to guide patients when they are most vulnerable, and to also be able to share life’s special moments.
What is the most important thing you/your practice contributes to this community?
We strive to bring good quality medicine to the local community. Being practice owners allows us the autonomy to steer the practice in the direction we want. We love being a part of the community in Milperra.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
If spare time is defined as a child-free moment, I love to go for a run by the beach and try to catch up on some non-medical reading.
Tell me about your ideal day…
Start with coffee and end with wine.
What do you love most about the Milperra/Bankstown LGA?
The local community and our patients!
What advice do you give your patients about maintaining good health?
Maintaining good mental health is an important part of self-care and I encourage patients to try and actively make time for activities they enjoy doing – it could be as simple as going for a walk or a cup of coffee with a friend.