Topic: Profile

For nurse practitioner Alicia Mah primary healthcare represents an opportunity to support her patients at every stage of their lives. Her work at Highlands General Practice at both Bowral and Moss Vale is a source of great joy as she brings a wealth of experience and empathy to her role.

 

How long have you been a practice nurse and how long have you been working in the Southern Highlands region?

I have 33 years’ experience in various disciplines throughout my nurse work journey, both in Australia and the UK. I have been in general practice in the Southern Highlands for the last 20 years and spent 13 years as a nurse practitioner.

 

When/why did you decide to pursue a career in nursing and specifically in primary care?

In 2003 after working in intensive care for years I started thinking there should be more useful ways to prevent people ending up in intensive care. I strongly support preventative care, and the primary healthcare setting is vital to all patient’s preventative health journey.

It’s a privileged position to be part of patients’ health experiences and general practice provides the type of environment which supports their acute and chronic health events. I know I’ve been doing this for a while when I see the generations coming through.

 

Tell us about the role of nurses in primary care

It’s a diverse role and I am never surprised by what comes through the door. It can be anything from travel health to women’s health or corporate medicals, immunisation or wound management, just to name a few.

At Highlands General Practice, I manage the nurse team and associated services, and support and educate our nurse and med students, as well as our registrars on their training program. A few nurse students have gone away having their perspective of nurses working in general practice completely changed and now consider a future in primary care as an option, rather than tertiary-based care settings.

I am also known as the walking Immunisation handbook and a regular go-to, especially for our doctors navigating the travel vaccines. One time I even minded a patient’s dog when she was shipped off to hospital.

 

What do you love about nursing and what do you find most fulfilling about your role?

It sounds cheesy but I never stop learning or taking an opportunity to improve my own depth of knowledge and how to apply this in practice. I also work with the mantra of never assuming anything and always asking ‘why’ which not only improves my understanding but helps patients navigate the challenges of understanding their own health.

 

Tell me about your ideal work day

I start by allocating the patients who are booked in and then take care of all the additional triages, walk-ins, doctor requests, opportunistic teaching moments and sharing collegial experiences where we collectively problem solve.

However crazy the day may have been, I constantly tell the team “we will go home today”. I love it when there are clinical challenges and when I see returning patients making improvements. I also love to see loads of appointment access in the appointment book and, of course, cake on the staff table.

 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Anything to do with mountains and snow. When I’m not travelling, I play hockey, and I am secretary of the Southern Highlands Hockey Association. I ride road bikes and support local not-for-profit organisations for the disabled and frail elderly.

 

Do you have any role models and why?

I’m lucky to be surrounded by a group of health professionals who are diverse, energetic and take a proactive approach to not only healthcare but life in general, so I like to think I don’t have one particular role model, rather multiple small bits of many. I particularly go with wisdom and experience.

 

How do you help educate your patients about maintaining good health?

Being realistic and okay with where they’re currently at, but also encouraging them to move to the next health goal. Even if they take one thing from an interaction to start contemplating, or when there is actual action, that gets exciting. I’m super keen on good travel health advice and I’m always encouraging patients not to leave their ‘sensible’ brain behind when they get on a flight.

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.

 

Welcome to GP Link Lunches!

As part of its ongoing GP advocacy work, Sydney South West GP Link has developed the GP Link Lunches Q&A series. 

GP Link Chair, Dr Kenneth McCroary, has initiated a series of meetings with clinical, political and/or GP focused individuals or organisations to discuss issues facing GPs working in our region and talk about local solutions.

Dr McCroary speaks with:

Janelle Ivankovic, Associate Director of Service Delivery for the NSW Firearms Registry, shares insights on upcoming changes to firearm licensing requirements.

Read the interview – 4 December 2024

 

Michelle Stares, CEO of Acurio Healthcare Innovation, about the newly established The George Centre at Gledswood Hills.

Read the interview – 30 October 2024

 

Dr Michael Wright, a GP, health economist and health services researcher. Dr Wright is also the president-elect of the RACGP and will officially take on the role at the RACGP’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 21 November.

Read the interview – 11 September 2024

 

Christine Faddoul, manager of Rendu House at the St Vincent de Paul Society, about their non-residential alcohol and other drug program.

Read the interview – 14 August 2024

 

Associate Professor Monisha Gupta, Liverpool Hospital’s Dermatology Department Head, about her career journey, dermatology and her personal experience with COVID-19 vaccine injury.

Read the interview – 17 July 2024

 

Rebecca Bedding and Wendy Pickup, Antenatal Shared Care (ANSC) Clinical Midwife Consultants (CMC). The ANSC CMCs provided an update of the ANSC program in the South Western Sydney Local Health District.

Read the interview – 3 July 2024

 

Megan Tremlett, a senior consulting pharmacist with the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, about the Core Palliative Care Medicines – Building Collaborative Partnerships with Community Pharmacists project.

Read the interview – 22 May 2024

 

Bianca Lean, SWSPHN Primary Care Workforce Manager, about the challenges and opportunities for South Western Sydney’s primary care workforce, and her role as SWSPHN COVID Response co-ordinator during the height of the pandemic.

Read the interview – 15 May 2024

 

Dr Renuka Shanmugalingam, a nephrologist and obstetric medicine physician, about new guidelines from the Society of Obstetric Medicine Australia and New Zealand (SOMANZ).

Read the interview – 17 April 2024

 

Dr Nhung Nguyen Nguyen, a consultant cardiologist, about her passion for working with patients to optimise their cardiovascular health and maintain wellness, and using the latest clinical evidence to provide excellent patient care.

Read the interview – 17 January 2024

 

Dr James Zhang about his work in the long COVID and post COVID general practice management space.

Read the interview – 6 December 2023

 

Xanthe Sansome, the National Program Director at Advance Care Planning Australia, about increasing the awareness and uptake of advance care planning across Australia.

Read the interview – 8 November 2023

 

Slavica Krstic, a paediatric clinical nurse specialist in weight management at South Western Sydney Local Health District, about the Growing Healthy Kids in South West Sydney project.

Read the interview – 13 September 2023

 

Professor Penny Abbott, the new Head of General Practice at Western Sydney University, about the undergraduate medical curricula and the decrease in interest from students in training as GPs.

Read the interview – 9 August 2023

 

SWSPHN program advisor, Gautami Motupally, who works primarily in our COVID team which involves program design and implementation relating to improving COVID health outcomes, with a focus on vulnerable communities.

Read the interview – 2 August 2023

 

UK medical student Rhianna Monahan. Rhianna is gaining valuable experience in general practice in Australia during a six-week term at Macarthur General Practice in Campbelltown. They spoke about her experiences so far, what medical training in the UK is like, the challenges presented by COVID-19, and the differences between practising medicine in the UK and Australia.

Read the interview – 12 July 2023

 

Southern Highlands GP, Dr Fiona Mackintosh, about her personal experience with COVID-19 infection and long COVID symptoms.

Read the interview – 21 June 2023

 

GP, Dr Mary Beth MacIsaac, about her experiences in the multiple GP roles she has performed, including her time with the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Read the interview – 31 May 2023

GP Sceptics Podcast

 

GP, Dr Andrew Knight, who is a staff specialist at the South Western Sydney Primary and Integrated Care Unit, a conjoint Senior lecturer at the University of NSW and was chair of National Prescribing Services Medicine Wise – The National Prescribing Service.

Read the interview – 17 May 2023

 

Hume MP and Shadow Treasurer, Angus Taylor, about the challenges facing general practice and the health system more broadly.

Read the interview – 3 May 2023

 

Dr Antonio Di Dio, acting Director of the Professional Services Review, about the organisation.

Read the interview – 26 April 2023

 

Dr Ai-Vee Chua, GP Principal of Dubbo Family Doctors, who has been a rural GP for more than 20 years. Dr Chua is also the Senior Clinical Editor for Western NSW HealthPathways. They spoke about issues including working in a rural setting, her roles with the AMA the RACGP and NSW Health, and coping with COVID-19.

Read the interview – 12 April 2023

 

Dr Soo Wei Foo, head of the department of respiratory and sleep medicine at Campbelltown Hospital, about the growth of the department, environmental impacts on our lungs, the unique challenges of healthcare in South Western Sydney and her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read the interview – 5 April 2023

 

Katie Tunks about Griefline, which offers a variety of services to provide help-seekers with access to free grief support and resources, and how COVID-19 has impacted demand for the service.

Read the interview – 29 March 2023

 

Dr Tom Lieng about what the future holds for general practice. This interview follows up last week’s article about the closure of Dr Lieng’s Ingleburn GP clinic and the wider issues impacting the general practice workforce.

Read the interview – 22 March 2023

 

Dr McCroary has penned an article about the closure of a Macarthur practice and the wider issues impacting the general practice workforce.

Read the article – 15 March 2023

 

Rick Fitzpatrick from Fitzpatrick and Robertson Accounting Firm about payroll tax.

Read the interview – 8 March 2023

 

Jenny James, a GP VMO at the South Western Sydney Local Health District’s General Practice Drug and Alcohol Advice and Support Service. They spoke about drug and alcohol services in the region, and the support her service provides local GPs.

Read the interview – 8 February 2023

 

Karen Booth, president of the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA), about primary healthcare nursing.

Read the interview – 1 February 2023

 

Practice owner and GP, Dr Antonio Di Dio, about his role in Drs4Drs, particularly with the recent stressors and burdens which have been placed upon GPs and the primary care network across South Western Sydney. Dr Di Dio currently combines general practice with being the Medical Director of the ACT Doctors Health Service and Acting Director of the Professional Services Review.

Read the interview – 25 January 2023

 

Dr Danielle McMullen, Vice President of the Australian Medical Association and a GP in Sydney’s Inner West. Dr McMullen is the immediate past president of the AMA (NSW). She spoke to Dr McCroary about her role as a trusted voice of doctors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read the interview – 21 December 2022

 

Rachael Williams, Clinical Nurse Consultant, about palliative care particularly in the aged and in residential aged care.

Read the interview – 14 December 2022

 

Tracy Jedrzejewski, a clinical midwifery consultant and antenatal shared care specialist, about her role and the importance of the South Western Sydney Antenatal Shared Care Program.

Read the interview – 7 December 2022

 

Paediatrician and Federal Macarthur MP, Dr Mike Freelander, about his experience with the ALP’s recent transition into government and to highlight some of the significant issues affecting GPs, general practice, primary care and the local community of South Western Sydney.

Read the interview – 30 November 2022

 

Isabella Sierra, the Physical Health Coordinator for South Western Sydney Local Health District Mental Health Services, about improving communication and relationships between the local health services and primary care in South Western Sydney.

Read the interview – 23 November 2022

 

Dr Alex Mackey, the Director of Emergency Medicine at Liverpool Hospital, about his understanding of general practice in South Western Sydney and for feedback about his experience working in a busy Emergency Department throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read the interview – 9 November 2022

 

NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, while COVID-19 was still very active in our community in winter this year.

Read the interview – 2 November 2022

 

AMA President Dr Michael Bonning about his work with both the AMA and GP Synergy, in particular with the transition of general practice training moving towards the two main colleges during the next 12 months. Dr Bonning is a GP involved with the teaching of registrars and medical students in Balmain and the Deputy Chair of GP Synergy. He has a strong interest in doctors’ health and wellbeing and sees many doctors and medical students as patients.

Read the interview – 21 September 2022

 

Nurse practitioner Tony Hecimovic about his role. Tony oversees the Hospital in The Home Program for South Western Sydney Local Health District. He has been deployed to the COVID Response Team as the Clinical Lead since the beginning of the pandemic where he has provided clinical nursing support to COVID-positive patients at home, staff within the LHD and local doctors within the district.

Read the interview – 17 August 2022

 

Chair of the RACGP NSW and ACT Faculty Council, Associate Professor Charlotte Hespe for her insights and experience in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic during the past two-and-a half years, and general practice more widely.

Read the interview – 10 August 2022

 

Western Sydney GP, Dr Walid Jammal, has a strong commitment to quality and safety in healthcare as well as health system policy and reform.

Read the interview – 13 July 2022

 

Dr Louise Delaney, National Clinical Advisor in Australia for HealthPathways about develop local pathways and COVID management strategies for the rollover to primary care management of the disease.

Read the interview – 31 May 2022 

 

Dr Carmelo Aquilina, Director of Older People’s Mental Health Service at South Western Sydney Local Health District. He is also involved with the Live Well Project. The interview is about older people’s mental health.

Read the interview – 30 March 2022

 

SWSPHN Director of Planning and Performance Amy Prince about the EAP for general practice staff and their families.

Read the interview – 15 February 2022

 

Dr Ahilan Parameswaran and Dr Manoshi Weerasinghe share their insights on the increasing role of GPs in managing COVID-19. The interviews were conducted at the end of last year, just prior to the introduction of the self-management changes on 17 December 2021.

Read the interview with Dr Parameswaran – 14 January 2022

Read the interview with Dr Weerasinghe – 14 January 2022

 

SWSPHN Clinical Support Co-ordinator Kristina Allen about the New to General Practice Nursing Program.

Read the interview – 9 December 2021

 

Dr Mike Freelander, paediatrician and Federal Macarthur MP.

Read the interview – 17 November 2021

 

Dr Angelo Virgona, chair of the NSW branch of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists and medical superintendent at Northside Macarthur Clinic in Campbelltown, about mental health policy.

Read the interview – 6 October 2021

 

David Simmons, Professor of Medicine at Western Sydney University Macarthur Clinical School, Head of Campbelltown Hospital Endocrinology Department and Director of the Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism Translation Unit, about diabetes.

Read the interview – 8 September 2021

 

Kelly Lee, a Clinical Psychologist and Operations Manager of enhanced services within Parramatta Mission, about the Continuing To Be Me (C2bMe) program which is funded by SWSPHN.

Read the interview – 18 August 2021

 

Dr Murray Wright, Chief Psychiatrist at NSW Health, about mental health issues relating to COVID-19.

Read the interview – November 2020

 

NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, about COVID-19.

Read the interview – November 2020

 

Dr Charlotte Hespe, Chair of the RACGP NSW/ACT Faculty Board and Head of General Practice and Primary Care Research at The University of Notre Dame Australia, about the RACGP.

Read the interview – September 2020

For Smithfield Medical and Dental Centre practice nurse, Sahar Hakimzadeh, every day is a chance to make someone smile. A passionate advocate for the elderly, she is committed to making sure they get the best care at all times.

 

How long have you been a practice nurse and how long have you been working in the South Western Sydney region?

I graduated in 2018 and I have been working in a medical practice for six years.

I’ve done different roles. I was an assistant in nursing and I used to work in aged care. My passion is working with elderly patients.

I am an immunisation nurse as well and I did that before getting into the medical practice.

 

When/why did you decide to pursue a career in nursing and specifically in primary care?

I mainly chose the medical centre because I have a young family. I gave birth around the time I graduated nursing and shift work at the hospital didn’t suit my lifestyle.

It’s more flexible working at the medical centre and easier to manage when you have a family. I have two children now.

I did a year at Prestons Medical Centre and after that I went to a medical centre at Gladesville for two years and did extra training for nursing because I have a lot of passion for my job.

 

Tell me about your ideal work day…

A typical day involves working with whatever is in the bookings, whether it’s immunisation, checking the fridge stock or doing health assessments which I love, especially with the 75-plus patients because I enjoy talking to older people. I love to hear their stories about how their lives were before and how it has changed.

I really love to help them, whether it’s a home medication review or some other aspect of their healthcare. Many of them are on a lot of medication so I can look at that. Also, if they need help at home or an aged care referral, I do what I can to help them with that.

Then I might spend some time doing recalls, checking on stock for the treatment room, things like that.

 

What do you love about nursing/what do you find most fulfilling about your role?

I believe it’s important to be fully engaged with the patients and I really enjoy it as well.

No matter what is happening in my life when I am at the practice I am always smiling, and the patients always ask me why I am so happy. The answer is pretty simple. I just love what I do, and I am always trying to make it a happy place for them.

It’s a wonderful job because you get a lot from your patients, and you learn a lot as well.

I used to work in aged care facilities as a nurse and now I am in general practice I feel so happy when I can do something for them, even if it’s something small, to make their day better.

 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love going to the gym. I go every single day, and I never miss it. And that’s a thing I encourage in all my patients. Physical activity is so important. Even to my patients who are on a walking frame I say just do five minutes of walking and it will make a difference.

So many younger adults say they don’t have time to exercise but if I can do it with a full-time job and two kids then so can they.

I also love listening to music and spending time with my large family.

 

How do you help educate your patients about maintaining good health?

I am constantly educating my patients. I encourage them to do their home medication review and recalls are very important. I find if I call them on the phone personally and ask them to come in then they are usually happy to do so.

I talk to them about exercise and their diet and aim to educate them about the risks of drinking or smoking and provide them with information which might help them to quit those habits which are not good for their health.

 

Dr Chris Touma has been a GP at Camden Central Family Practice for the last two years after completing his training in the country town of Orange and in Campbelltown. He believes putting your own health needs first is of utmost importance if you want to be able to care for others.

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

I have been at Camden Central Family Practice for two years. I have been a GP for five years, including my training. I did my general practice and hospital training in Orange and Molong then moved to Camden and started at the practice I’m working at now. I did my training in Campbelltown, Westmead, Orange and Bathurst.

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

I wanted to be a GP from the get-go. I was tossing up between palliative care and general practice, but I decided general practice gives you the breadth of everything, from babies which are a couple of days old through to someone who may be 100 years old – and everything in between. I like the continuity of care you get in general practice as opposed to seeing people once a year or when they come to the emergency department. I see four generations of one family in my practice, and you don’t get that in much else. You have a relationship with the whole family, not just individuals.

What do you love most about being a GP/what part of the job gives you the most satisfaction?

When the work you are doing actually improves peoples’ lives and you can see that happening. You get to follow up on the treatment you have recommended and see them get better. It’s not like in an emergency department where you are just patching people up and shipping them off. You get to look at your patient’s health in a holistic way and see how it impacts them as a person, whether that impacts their mental health, whether it affects their ability to work – you work on everything. You are not just homing in on one thing. You are treating the person rather than just the disease.

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

In my spare time I focus on keeping myself healthy: cooking good food and going to the gym. I like to spend time with my family and my friends. Fortunately, there are lots of good restaurants in Camden and we like to go out for dinner together. I work four days a week, but they are long days.

What do you love most about Camden?

This is a great community, and the people are really friendly. Also, it’s like the country but close to Sydney so you have balance between the two. It’s nice, it’s quiet and Camden people are really nice people. It’s the best of both worlds.

What advice do you give your patients about maintaining good health?

I encourage people to look after themselves before they look after anyone else. I have people coming in and they are busy looking after their parents, their partner or their kids, but they are not prioritising their own health, and they are just falling to pieces. I tell them, at the end of the day they have to put themselves first, so they are able to cope with everything else, whether that be work, or caring for others.

Although she has only been a practice nurse for six months, Clarissa Cuellar is passionate about patient care and the difference she can make in people’s lives. Working at Eagle Vale Medical Centre, the qualified paediatric nurse loves the fact she can build a rapport with her patients through the many phases of their lives.

How long have you been a practice nurse and how long have you been working in South Western Sydney? 

I have only been a practice nurse for two to three months. I am still in my new graduate year and my background is in paediatric nursing. I have been working as a registered nurse in South Western Sydney for six months now and I am loving nursing.

When/why did you decide to pursue a career in nursing and specifically in primary care? 

I decided to pursue a career in nursing because my grandparents were registered nurses and they’ve been inspiring with their rewarding job and the hard work they put into it. I’ve always wanted to make a difference in someone’s life and being a patient can be a challenging and confronting experience.

Although I do not have kids yet, having a background in paediatric nursing has allowed me to gain many clinical skills and to empathise with parents and families, and look after patients at vulnerable ages.

Since my passion is in children’s and family health, I pursued a career as a primary care nurse as you get to develop ongoing care from babies through to the elderly. It’s also a better work life balance compared to the hospital.

Tell us about the role of nurses in primary care

The major role of nurses in primary care is chronic disease management, which includes monitoring and managing conditions such as wounds, diabetes, asthma, kidney disease and cardiovascular issues such as hypertension.

We educate patients on managing chronic conditions, medications and healthy lifestyle choices. In GP land as practice nurses, we are very big on health promotion and early prevention. I endeavour to promote preventive care through vaccinations, health assessments, screenings and lifestyle counselling.

We are heavily involved in the coordination of the medical practice, working alongside doctors to ensure there is an efficient workflow. We advocate for patients, support and guide them and their families.

What do you love about nursing/what do you find most fulfilling about your role?

The one thing I love about nursing is the relationships and rapport built with patients, which is essential in maintaining an effective nurse/patient relationship and establishing long-term patient centred care.

The most rewarding thing is seeing their quality of life improving.

Tell me about your ideal work day…

As a GP nurse, my ideal work day centres around my patients, the doctors and the appointment book.

At the start of the day, I perform cold chain management and fridge temperature checks. I sanitise all surfaces and make sure all supplies are stocked up and the equipment is working well.

I see my patients who are booked in for the day for things such as vaccinations, spirometry tests and health assessments and assist doctors in procedures such as cervical screening tests, nail resections, biopsies, iron infusions and Mirena insertions.

I triage patients when they arrive at the clinic if they are feeling unwell and need urgent medical attention. My ideal work day consists of adequate breaks and leaving on time to avoid long term burnout.

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my husband, family and friends. I love going out for brunch and going on beautiful hikes in nature.

I love music. I sing and play keyboards and I’m part of my church band which performs every Sunday. I have a passion for baking cakes and fondant cookies. I even baked my own wedding cake.

I also have a passion for travelling the world. I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to different parts of Southeast Asia, including Thailand and Malaysia. I cannot wait to keep travelling the world and exploring new things. 

Do you have any role models and why?

My role models are my husband and parents. My parents worked hard to bring my brother and I to Australia where we could have a better education and life. This has paid off as we both have rewarding jobs. My brother is a physiotherapist.

Both my parents poured their heart and soul into providing for us when we were growing up. They are both hard working and continue to offer endless support.

My husband is also my role model as he continues to show me love and compassion. He wholeheartedly serves others and always shows compassion and kindness, which exemplifies the way I treat my patients. He’s my best friend and partner in crime and my number one supporter through my nursing career and everything.

How do you help educate your patients about maintaining good health?

I help educate my patients by using visual aids as this really helps them to understand. I also use simple layman’s terms and reduce my use of medical jargon so they can understand their diagnosis better and how to manage their health conditions without feeling overwhelmed with big words and lots of information. This leads to better health outcomes.

I also employ methods such as the “teach back” method which is a process where I explain a process to a patient and then they tell me what they have learned to ensure understanding. I reiterate if they are uncertain about something. I also give out pamphlets and refer them to websites for more information.

Dr Atifa Khan of My Family Health Medical Centre in Gregory Hills has been a GP since 2002 and has been practising in Gregory Hills for seven years.

Dr Khan decided to become a GP during her residency as she felt it offered the opportunity to provide comprehensive and compassionate healthcare to patients of all ages. Valuing the long-term relationships built with patients and the community, Dr. Khan finds being a GP extremely rewarding. It allows her to deeply understand patients’ needs and provide personalised and effective care.

Outside of work, Dr Khan enjoys spending time with her family and travelling.

How long have you been a GP, and how long have you been practising in Gregory Hills?

I graduated from King Edward Medical College in Pakistan in 2002 and have been working in Australia since 2005. With a special interest in children’s and women’s health as well as weight management, I have been dedicated to these fields throughout my career. We established our Gregory Hills centre in May 2017, and I have been practising here ever since. Additionally, I am an accredited supervisor for the RACGP and serve as a conjoint lecturer with Western Sydney University.

When/why did you decide to be a GP?

I decided to become a GP during my hospital residency. I chose this specialty because it offers the opportunity to provide comprehensive healthcare to patients of all ages. The continuity of care in this field is deeply rewarding, as I value the long-term relationships I build with my patients and the community.

What do you love most about being a GP/ what part of the job gives you the most satisfaction?

What I enjoy most about being a GP is building long-term professional relationships with my patients and their families. The continuity of care is extremely rewarding, as it allows me to develop a deep understanding of my patients’ needs and provide more personalised and effective care. Additionally, being able to offer comprehensive healthcare across a wide range of medical issues, from preventive care to chronic disease management, is deeply fulfilling.

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

The most important contribution our medical centre makes to this community is providing accessible and comprehensive healthcare services. We prioritise patient well-being and strive to improve the health outcomes of everyone we serve. We aim to be a trusted source of medical expertise, guidance, and support for individuals and families in our community.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, our clinic remained open every day without fail. I also coordinated with the SWSPHN COVID team to assist housebound patients in receiving their COVID vaccines and booster shots.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like spending quality time with my family. I enjoy socialising with family and friends.

I also like travelling.

Is there anything else you’d like to let your fellow primary carers know about you?

I’d like my fellow primary carers to know I am deeply committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to our community. I believe in the importance of continuous learning and staying updated with the latest medical advancements to offer the best possible care to my patients. I’m always open to collaboration and sharing knowledge to enhance our collective expertise and improve patient outcomes.

What do you love most about Gregory Hills?

What I love most about Gregory Hills is its diversity. It offers great opportunities to learn and grow professionally while fostering connections with families from various backgrounds. It also provides excellent opportunities to practice in my areas of interest, such as antenatal care, paediatrics, and women’s health.

What advice do you give your patients about maintaining good health?

My advice to my patients is to not to underestimate the power of a healthy diet and staying active. Living a healthy lifestyle goes a long way!

“I’ve loved my career”.

Joanna Perks is a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner at the Liverpool Women’s Health Centre. Following in her mother’s footsteps, Joanna completed midwifery training and “found myself working in primary healthcare”. Later, Joanna pursued a family planning course and continued to advance her primary healthcare career.

How long have you been a practice nurse, and how long have you been working in South Western Sydney?

I have worked as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner at Liverpool Women’s Health Centre since 2011.

When/why did you decide to pursue a career in nursing and, specifically, in primary care?

My mother was a nurse and midwife who passed away in 1975. I grew up in a rural area where my mother worked at the local hospital. After completing my midwifery training, I found myself working in primary healthcare. Later, I did a family planning course in the late 1980s, and my career progressed from there.

Tell us about the role of nurses in primary care.

I work as a nurse practitioner and play a crucial role in promoting good healthcare. My responsibilities include conducting preventive health check-ups, offering contraception and sexual health services, and providing midwifery care whenever possible. Most of our patients come from marginalised communities, and our women’s health centre is always bustling with activity.

What do you love about nursing/what do you find most fulfilling about your role?

Being a nurse practitioner offers a lot of variety and the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. I appreciate the collegiality and the chance to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like spending time with my grandchildren, playing the piano and sewing.

Do you have any role models, and why?

My role models are Frida Khalo, the most amazing woman, and my mother, who was gone too soon.

How do you help educate your patients about maintaining good health?

As part of my role, I do education groups and talks. We deliver groups for young women, and I have also been a childbirth educator.

I’ve loved my career.

Melissa Gajardo’s passion for nursing led her to a career in primary care. The Campbelltown Medical Centre practice nurse is eager to contribute to improving our community’s health by empowering her patients “to make informed decisions about their health and equip them with the knowledge and resources necessary to lead healthier, happier lives”.

How long have you been a practice nurse and how long have you been working in South Western Sydney?

I am new to general practice nursing, having started just four months ago. Last year I did a three-month contract as a nurse in a correctional facility, which was my first taste of primary care. I have been a registered nurse for 12 years, mostly working in acute care in a tertiary hospital. Other than my nursing contracts out of Sydney I have always serviced the good people of South Western Sydney.

When/why did you decide to pursue a career in nursing and specifically in primary care?

I discovered my passion for service care delivery early on. After high school I pursued a Bachelor of Psychology, but quickly realised it wasn’t the right fit. It was my mother, an AIN (Assistant in Nursing) herself, who urged me to consider nursing as a career. Taking her advice, I made the transition, and it’s been a decision I’m truly grateful for.

I specialised in cardiology working in the Coronary Care Unit and the Cardiac Interventional Unit and while I loved my experiences in acute care, my passion for preventative healthcare has grown steadily over the years.

I am eager to make my contribution to addressing risk factors early and do my part in preventing hospital admissions and alleviating an already burdened health system.

Primary healthcare nursing is so multifaceted with so many intriguing opportunities.

From servicing our First Nations people in a remote area of Australia to occupational health, refugee health and early childhood services, the field is rich with possibilities.

Even within my specialty of cardiology, roles in cardiac rehabilitation and managing conditions like rheumatic heart disease in children present compelling avenues for impact.

I am currently enrolled in the immunisation accreditation program and would also like to undertake study to become a Credentialed Diabetic Nurse Educator.

I look forward to using my newly acquired skills in primary care to work in a remote care setting in the future.

Tell us about the role of nurses in primary care

The role of primary healthcare nurses is dynamic and centred around delivering personalised care with a strong emphasis on preventive measures and disease management.

On a typical day as a general practice nurse I work closely with GPs to perform a range of tasks, including wound dressings, medication education and administration, including Immunisations.

I also perform health assessments and have recently begun doing chronic disease management plans.

In my general practice the nurses assist the GPs with cervical screenings, IUD insertions, skin lesion removal and biopsies, as well as conducting diagnostic tests such as ECGs, ABIs and spirometry.

We also are involved with meticulous documentation and record keeping and actively participate in quality and safety by performing cold chain management, ordering appropriate stock and sterilising equipment.

What do you love about nursing/what do you find most fulfilling about your role?

The essence of nursing lies in the connections forged with our patients and community.

In acute care, I’ve been privileged to share pivotal moments in patients’ lives – sometimes it’s the worst day of their lives.

Witnessing their resilience in adversity has been the most rewarding aspect of my role. It’s humbling to see their strength, and it’s instilled in me a profound appreciation for the fragility of health, the preciousness of life and the inevitability of death.

Beyond the patient interactions, the camaraderie among colleagues has been equally fulfilling.

Nursing isn’t just a profession, it’s a community built on shared experiences, respect and trust.

The friendships and networks I’ve cultivated over the years have enriched my journey and I have made friends for life.

Tell me about your ideal work day…

My ideal workday involves walking into the general practice to find everything running smoothly: all routine checks completed, stocked up on supplies and technology functioning well.

I see my patients on time, ensuring I have enough time to give them the attention they need without feeling rushed.

If an unwell patient needs urgent care, I’m ready to triage and provide appropriate management.

Taking a break at a reasonable time. Having positive interactions with patients and colleagues to make the day enjoyable and productive.

Finally, leaving work on time.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time I love spending time with my dog Eleven, she is a spirited Kelpie x Golden Retriever mix.

Despite her occasional quirks, I find joy in our daily walks together.

Quality time with my partner and family is equally enjoyable, whether we’re cozying up for a movie night or engaging in a not so friendly game of Catan.

Travelling is another passion of mine, and I’ve been fortunate to explore various countries.

However, there’s still so much of Australia left for me to discover.

My partner and I recently explored Tasmania over a 14-day trip and it left a lasting impression on us.

More than 40 per cent of Tasmania is protected as national parks and reserves, which offered a great opportunity to immerse ourselves in an unspoilt wilderness.

We enjoyed encounters with native wildlife, from wombats to penguins and even a platypus!

We also learnt about Tasmania’s rich convict history and thoroughly enjoyed the Port Arthur Historic Site.

Do you have any role models and why?

My role model is undoubtedly my mother, Marcelina.

Arriving in Australia in the 1980s with little more than determination, she and my father built a fulfilling life for our family from the ground up.

Her unwavering dedication shines through in every aspect of her life.

As an Assistant in Nursing, she has tirelessly cared for the elderly for over three decades, embodying compassion and professionalism.

Beyond her job, she’s been an exceptional mother, confidant and friend, always offering unwavering support and love.

Her ability to give wholeheartedly to others, coupled with her strong work ethic, serves as an enduring inspiration to me.

How do you help educate your patients about maintaining good health?

I firmly believe in the power of preventative healthcare and the adage prevention is better than cure.

My approach to educating patients about good health begins with fostering open, uninterrupted conversations where patients feel empowered to take charge of their own well-being.

I actively listen to their concerns and symptoms, encouraging them to explore resources and strategies available to them in their daily lives to address these issues.

Many patients often express regret about not prioritising their health earlier, and I strive to reassure them that they are not alone in facing challenges imposed by modern society.

By acknowledging these factors, we can work together to identify areas where they can take action and regain control over their health.

Supportive counselling is really important in these interactions as building a trusting relationship helps to foster open communication and collaboration in achieving health goals.

I emphasise the importance of simple lifestyle changes because even small adjustments can yield significant improvements in their symptoms or overall well-being.

Whether it’s making dietary modifications, incorporating regular exercise, or implementing stress-reduction techniques, I provide guidance and support tailored to each individual’s needs.

Ultimately, my goal is to empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and equip them with the knowledge and resources necessary to lead healthier, happier lives.