SESLHD’s newest generation of doctors join the ranks

Newly-graduated doctors have begun their medical careers at SESLHD hospitals, as part of the state’s 2021 junior medical officer (JMO) intake. The 105 doctors join more than 1,000 medical interns starting work in a NSW public hospital this year.

Interns are graduates who have completed their medical degree and are required to complete a supervised year of practice in order to become independent practitioners.

Dr Jo Karnaghan, SESLHD Director, Clinical Governance and Medical Services, said: “Our talented team of doctors join us at a challenging yet rewarding time – during the COVID-19 pandemic – and have the opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to our community.

“On behalf of the District I would like to congratulate our new interns, and wish them every success as they begin their exciting careers,” Dr Karnaghan said.

New intern Dr Annabelle Carter, whose first rotation is on the Rehabilitation Ward at Prince of Wales Hospital, said she was drawn to study medicine because it brings together science with helping people.

“I applied to start my career at Prince of Wales because the hospital offers a variety of specialities, which I hope will open opportunities as my experiences progress. Some of the other rotations I’m looking forward to over the coming two years here are cardiology and working in the ED,” Dr Carter said. 

“I’d also heard the hospital provided fantastic support to new doctors – and I’ve just moved to Coogee, so am enjoying the commute walking to work!

“I’m grateful that 2021 was the year I started full-time work in medicine. COVID brought significant challenges to the sector, but, a year on, we now have established policies, procedures and leadership to help manage caring for patients in the midst of a global pandemic,” Dr Carter said.

Over at Sutherland Hospital the interns received a warm welcome from three Sutherland Shire local Members of Parliament: The Hon. Mark Speakman MP, Member for Cronulla, Eleni Petinos MP, Member for Miranda, and Lee Evans MP, Member for Heathcote, who greeted the doctors and discussed the needs of the local community.