163 new doctors kick off careers at Metro North
The next generation of doctors will be welcomed across Metro North this week as 163 medical interns take up residence across the hospitals on Brisbane’s northside.
The intern cohort will be spread across Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, The Prince Charles Hospital, Caboolture Hospital and Redcliffe Hospital.
Brisbane veterinarian student turned doctor Matthew Basa is one of 92 new interns set to start at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, admitting he is excited to put his knowledge into practice.
“I was in my final year of studying Veterinary Sciences when I had an allergic reaction to a cat which landed me in hospital. It was here that I witnessed how great our health system is in Australia and how well supported our hospitals are. As soon as I got the idea of studying medicine in my head, my mind was made up,” he said.
“I can’t wait to make the transition from student to intern so I can take on some responsibilities and learn from medical industry leaders at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, which was my first preference.
“After my intern year, I’d love to specialise in general surgery or trauma. I like the pragmatic nature of surgery and the fact that you can be active and use your hands.”
Launceston’s 23-year-old Shaye Davies has made the move to Queensland to commence her internship at Caboolture Hospital, following a placement she did there last year in the Emergency Department.
“My partner is in Brisbane and I knew I wanted to get some experience in a closer-knit hospital setting, so I picked Caboolture Hospital for my placement last year,” she said.
“I had a great time on my placement in the ED last year and loved the independence the team gave us to use our skills, while still being very supportive, so I really wanted to come back.
“At this stage I’m interested in rural health more broadly but I’m keeping an open mind – my first rotation is cardiology.”
After completing a week-long intensive orientation program, interns across Metro North hospitals embark on rotations in medicine, surgery, emergency medicine and additional elective terms in other specialised areas.