Bunbury's Dr Donovan says every day is different at country health

Junior doctor Sarah Donovan has wanted to work in country health ever since completing a placement with The Rural Clinical School of Western Australia in Carnarvon.

Dr Donovan said she was inspired to pursue a career as a rural General Physician (GP) after seeing the impact GPs had on country communities.

It was during her placement that Dr Donovan experienced first-hand the benefits of being able to work and play in country WA.

“I’d spend the week learning from the rural GPs and then spend most weekends surfing and camping at the Bluff, Gnaraloo or Exmouth,” Dr Donovan said.

And after a short stint in Albany, Dr Donovan knew country health was her calling.

“Here, I learned from talented GPs and was able to work in a variety of different settings including the emergency, hospice and maternity ward,” she said.

“Plus working alongside experienced people, the lifestyle and the continuity of care really cemented my desire to become a rural GP.”

Now working as a Resident Medical Officer at Bunbury Regional Hospital, Dr Donovan said she is getting hands-on experience with a range of patient presentations that early career doctors may not see in metro health settings.

“Being at a smaller site, the people here know who you are and your skillset a lot more than working at a larger city,” she said.

“You are taught by experienced consultants and senior doctors in a one-on-one setting.

“I’ve gained so much just from coffee conversations with my seniors here in country health.”

Community is a large part of what draws Dr Donovan to country WA.

“Being based in the country community is rewarding because you can connect with patients and remain on their journey throughout their life,” she said.

“Working at WA Country Health Service you know that every day is going to be different.

Bunbury Regional Hospital Director Jeff Calver said the hospital was proud to support the next generation of healthcare workers and encouraged more junior doctors to follow in Dr Donovan’s footsteps.

"It is an exciting time here in Bunbury. We’re investing almost $300 million into transforming our hospital into a world-class facility, including Western Australia’s first regional teaching, training and research centre," he said.

“There is a real opportunity here for early career doctors to make a difference in the South West community.  

Want to get outta town and work and play in country WA? Take a look at our current vacancies.