2min read
Locum Podiatrist Medhi
13 years Podiatry experience
Medhi’s locum podiatry journey has been one of professional satisfaction. By contracting around Australia, meeting new people, and experiencing a vast array of patient demographics, he has garnered a wealth of experience metro professionals could only dream of. And the best bit? Locum podiatrists are in demand!
We asked Medhi what he has gotten up to during his time as an Affinity practitioner.
1. How long have you been working as a podiatrist for, and do you specialise in a particular area of practice?
I have been a podiatrist since 2012. I commenced my career in private practice and then moved into my first hospital role in mid-2014.
Whilst I enjoy all aspects of podiatry, I prefer working in the public sector at high-risk foot clinics as this allows me to focus on the surgical aspect of podiatry. The majority of presentations seen are ulcers and wounds and I gain a lot of professional satisfaction from seeing the progress in patients.
2. What made you pursue travel contracts? What are you enjoying the most about it?
I have been working as a locum podiatrist for 10 years. Because podiatrists are in high demand across the country, I have not had any issues sourcing roles and often have multiple options available to me. I can travel around the country, see new areas and meet new people. I think I gain more experience with various patient demographics this way.
I weigh up a number of factors when deciding on the right role for me. What will the role entail – high risk, general, outreach? Where is it located, how isolated will I be? What is the accommodation like? What will the pay be?
3. How is your time going at South West Healthcare Warrnambool?
It’s going absolutely great, and the number one reason for that is the team. They are a lovely bunch of people. I am also loving the nature of the job as it is mostly wound care which I enjoy.
There are two other podiatrists on the team who job share, including undertaking management duties. Other allied health services include OT, physiotherapy, speech pathology, dietitians, social work – the typical medium-sized allied health service you would find in a regional hospital.
4. What does your typical workday look like?
Mostly seeing wounds and ulcers, also some general foot care.
The clinic operates mainly on referrals from nurses, doctors, and outpatient GP referrals, with a small component of inpatients. Because this is a high-risk clinic, 90% of the patients we see are adults.
An average day would involve seeing 6 wound care patients. These appointments can take over an hour. If I have a mixed caseload I might see 8 patients.
5. What have you gotten up to in Victoria while on contract?
I’ve been enjoying Warrnambool quite a lot! There are plenty of cafes and restaurants to check out. And the coastal location is hard to beat.
6. Any hobbies you bring with you while on contract to relax between shifts? What makes you feel at home while travelling for work?
For me it’s walking, going to gym, spending time in the swimming pool, and dining out.
7. What has been the highlight of working with Affinity so far?
Affinity has been very efficient . The role has been a great fit for me, and as a result I have extended my contract.
8. What advice would you give other allied health professionals who are thinking of using their skills out in regional, rural and remote areas of Australia?
Working as locum is the best way to work, travel, and to gain valuable experience and meet great people.
If you’re a podiatrist, now’s your time. Take advantage of the high demand and go see Australia your way as a locum podiatrist. And if you’re an allied health professional in another field, register with Affinity today and see how you can expand your skills and tick-off your bucket list.
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