Dr. Clara and Dr. Dana, two sisters, embarked on their Australian journey together in September 2024, relocating from the UK and being placed in the same hospital!
We caught up with them to hear about their relocation journey and gather useful suggestions for fellow professionals considering a similar move to Australia.
Dr. Dana is currently in ED in Shoalhaven and she will be going for a GP Term in Milton next, while Dr. Clara has stayed in Wollongong and rotated through surgical specialties.
Q: Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare?
Dr. Clara: Coming from a family of healthcare professionals, with both parents being doctors, I grew up under their influence and naturally developed a passion for science. I find fulfillment in helping people and using my knowledge to improve patient health and wellbeing.
Dr. Dana: In addition to our family’s influence, I’m drawn to medicine because no two days are alike. Each patient brings unique challenges, enabling me to continually learn and enhance my skills with every new case.
Q: Why did you decide to come to Australia?
Dr. Clara: Our family is based in Malaysia, and Australia’s proximity to Malaysia was an important factor for us. While studying in the UK, I always wanted to experience various healthcare systems while still in training. Australia’s beautiful landscape, pleasant climate, and high quality of life are enticing.
Q: How has practising as a doctor differed in Australia, compared to the UK?
Dr. Clara:
- Hospitals in the UK is primarily public under the NHS (National Health Service) system, whereas in Australia, patients have more choices to receive care through both public and private sectors.
- In Australia, the public and private health systems are more integrated and communicate better with each other compared to the UK. This facilitates smoother patient transitions and access to care.
Dr. Dana:
- Staffing in Australia is better compared to the UK. Doctors here are more mindful of resource management, such as blood tests and scans, carefully considering costs and necessity. This conscientious approach leads to improved patient care and outcomes.
Q: What was the relocation process like once you decided to work in Australia?
Dr. Clara: The relocation process was straightforward. We applied through SEEK while in the UK, and our friendly recruitment consultant swiftly connected with us. We received ample support from Global Medics that handled every detail, including negotiating terms with the hospital, travel and accommodation arrangements, and visa applications.
Our recruitment consultant offered prompt and regular communication, updating us on the progress of visa, AHRHA and Police Check. This gives us reassurance while we were in the UK.
When we landed in Australia, we were offered accommodation for the first 3 months, so we settled in without the stress of house hunting.
Q: What have you found particularly useful when working with Global Medics?
Dr. Clara: The most beneficial aspect was having someone to liaise directly with the hospital. Since Global Medics is based in Australia, they could attend meetings and communicate in person on our behalf, often resolving issues more effectively than remote communication.
Dr. Dana: The arrangement of accommodation upon arrival was incredibly helpful. Landing in a new country and having a place to stay immediately meant we could settle in without the stress of finding housing. Additionally, Global Medics provided valuable information and support, making our relocation from the UK to Australia much smoother.
Q: What do you wish you’d known before you moved to Australia? Any tips or tricks for other doctors considering the move?
Dr. Clara: Allow ample time for the visa process. It took us six months to get the visa granted, so plan accordingly.
Q: Where are you hoping your career will take you in 5 years’ time?
Dr. Clara: As a registrar, my goal is to achieve general registration, pass the exam and obtain Permanent Residence (PR) to eventually join the general surgery training program.
Dr. Dana: I aim to deepen my knowledge across various specialties while progressing through my career and obtaining permanent residency.
We'd like to thank Dr. Clara and Dr. Dana for their time and allowing Global Medics to conduct this interview.
