Training in general practices in Narooma and Bermagui, Dr Paul Barnett is enjoying the beach and surf, as well as his work as a GP.
Now in his third term of training his long-term aim is to be a country GP.
“I had thought about working in a hospital setting but general practice provides continuity of care to patients, a wide range of presentations as well as flexibility.
“Working as a GP registrar enables me to live in a beautiful place like Narooma.
“Narooma is not too isolated but is far enough away to be out of the rat-race, I can walk to work, and I never have to wait at traffic lights.
“I’m thoroughly enjoying my training, the community is friendly and welcoming, it’s a beautiful part of NSW and there are also plenty of fun things to do,” he said.
Lifestyle was also a factor in Dr Muller-Grotjan choosing to be a rural GP, and as a GP supervisor she appreciates the importance to small communities of training registrars.
“Registrars bring new life and up-to-date knowledge – all our registrars are funny, intelligent, interesting people and have become valued members of our community.
“Supervising forces me to stay on top of evidence-based medicine and I constantly learn new perspectives from my registrars.
“In addition to factual knowledge I try to teach my registrars the essence of rural general practice which is making a difference in people’s lives.
“When one of my complex patients recently asked which surgery to go to when he moved away from the area I suggested he look for a surgery that teaches registrars and students – I think that is the best guarantee of getting best quality care!” she said.