3min read
Meet Travel Podiatrist, Cara
Career experience, travel and a competitive salary in podiatry – it’s all possible
Much like any allied health profession, the traditional pathway for podiatry as a new grad is to typically land a full time salary role in the public or private sector, and to remain there whilst gaining real-world experience. Personal passions and travel goals are then often left on the backburner until the weekend or enough annual leave has been built up.
With the ability to take time off from your permanent role to develop skills and experience in podiatry placements across some of Australia’s most beautiful regions, it’s no mystery as to why locum contracts are now gaining such popularity…
Dive into Cara’s experience as a travel podiatrist in Australia.
1. How long have you been working as a podiatrist for, and do you specialise in a particular area of practice?
I have been working as a Podiatrist for almost 2 years now. I would consider myself as a rural generalist, and prefer working in the public high-risk foot setting.
Presentations in this area mostly include diabetic foot ulcerations/wounds. Our aim as the Podiatrist is to prevent complications such as amputations or hospitalisation.
2. What made you pursue travel contracts? What are you enjoying the most about it?
To further develop my skills, gain more experience, travel, meet new people… all whilst having a competitive salary? Sounded like a great deal to me.
I am enjoying all the above!
3. How has your time been at Geraldton Regional Hospital?
It’s my first time working in WA and it’s been great. The allied health team here are amazing – inclusive, social, fun, and knowledgeable. The caseload of the job is great.
4. What does your typical workday look like?
Mainly outpatients who have high-risk foot concerns, with a small mixture of general foot care. Demographics are variable and diverse.
On Fridays, I run a clinic in collaboration with nursing staff. This is a clinic for patients who have recently been discharged from hospital and require ongoing nursing/Podiatry input. I work closely with the nurses to decide dressing regimes, test vascular supply, dispense offloading, etc.
I have also completed multiple regional trips to surrounding areas like Carnarvon via a charter flight (very cool!) and Northampton.
5. What have you gotten up to in Geraldton/WA while on contract?
I have checked out the many beaches and cafes whilst in Geraldton. I have also done weekend trips to Perth and Mullewa.
I also used Geraldton as a base to explore further north. My partner flew across, we hired a 4WD camper and then headed towards Exmouth. Along the way we stopped at places like Kalbarri, Shark Bay, and Coral Bay; just to name a few. We camped along the coast, snorkelled, swam with humpback whales, and hiked.
It’s such a beautiful part of Australia!
6. What makes you feel at home while travelling for work? Do you have any hobbies that you enjoy between shifts while on contract?
In my spare time between shifts, you can generally find me out walking, doing yoga or Pilates, and spending time at the beach.
7. What has been the highlight of working with Affinity so far?
How easy it has been. My recruitment officer Frances has been very accessible, efficient, and checks in regularly.
8. Do you have a favourite photo from your travels? What’s the story behind it?
One of my favourite photos from my travels has been camping with my partner along the coral coast of Western Australia, captured by drone!
9. What advice would you give other allied health professionals who are thinking of maximising their skills out in regional and rural Australia?
Just do it! The opportunities that come with travel contracts is well worth it. Working as a locum in regional Australia is an awesome way to travel, work, meet new people, and further develop your skillset in the industry.
Ready for a refreshing change to your podiatry or allied health career? Choose where you want to work at competitive rates that can support both your personal and professional goals, with locum contracts and placements.
Register with Affinity today to be connected with a dedicated Affinity Allied Health specialist, to find your next opportunity as a podiatrist.
Know an allied health professional who should take the leap? Refer a friend today and receive a reward!* 💸
*T&Cs apply. See offer for more details.
You may also like:
