Life as a GP
Dr Scott Finlay
Scott recently completed his GP procedural advanced rural skills training with GP Synergy New/England/Northwest (previously NEATS).
Why did you become a GP?
I always aimed to train as a rural GP. My experiences relieving county GPs in western Queensland gave me a taste for the work of a rural GP. No particular specialty seemed to suit me, while rural general practice was filled with a challenging variety of work.
What do enjoy about being a GP/a rural GP?
Again, variety appeals to me, no two days are the same. The relationship developed with patients can be very satisfying and providing continuity of care is rewarding is this increasingly fragmented medical era. Continuity of care through pregnancy, delivery and into the early life of a child is particularly rewarding.
What are the more challenging aspects of being a GP/a rural GP?
Patients can become unrealistic in their expectations. Medicine is increasingly complex and maintaining skills in such a broad field is a real challenge. Add in obstetrics, anaesthetics and emergency and it can feel overwhelming at times.
What was your experience like as a GP Registrar in general & specifically with NEATS?
I enjoyed being a registrar – because I had a genuine interest in rural medicine, I was able to access excellent training posts both for my GP terms and for my ARSPs. GP Synergy New England/Northwest* was particularly important for my obstetrics ARSP in Armidale. Even though I came from another RTP, I was able to secure a good post in Armidale and achieved my DRANZCOG (advanced) diploma in 12 months (not always possible in some posts). It was direct contact with GP Synergy New England/Northwest* staff that made it work, making sure I had access to appropriate support and the resources I needed. I also completed my GP terms with NEATS in Armidale. The process was smooth and there were no quibbles regarding support payments. I was released back into Qld to undertake my anaesthetics training under CSQTC without any argument. Again the Procedural Skills Project Officer was the main contact that made the transition as smooth as possible. She had a genuine interest in where I was going and maintained contact throughout and is certainly part of the reason I have come back to the region – maintaining my interest in Moree.
Why did you choose to undertake your procedural skills post in Armidale?
I chose the skills term in Armidale because I knew it would most likely provide me with the experience I needed to complete the requirements. The Obstetric diploma is quite prescriptive, with a logbook of procedures and numbers that are required before sign off on training. In many posts there is competition between GP registrars and speciality trainees for procedures, so you can find that 12 months is over but the diploma requirements aren’t complete.
What was your supervision like during your procedural skill post?
It was just me and my consultant supervisor so there wasn’t any competition for procedural access from other trainees. I met my Supervisor before taking the post and once I met him I knew that he would make sure I got through the requirements. We are still in contact.
What was it like training in Armidale?
I was well supported in Armidale by the whole medical community - being a new doctor in training was a novelty. There had never been a DRANZCOG trainee at that hospital - new for all, including the midwives.
Armidale itself is a beautiful town, autumnal trees, long winter, open fires, great pubs. The university and musical culture make a quite unique little town. My wife found it more appealing than other locations and the kids went to “music lessons” at the conservatorium.
Is being a GP different to how you thought it would be like? Any unexpected benefits/drawbacks?
My GP experience has been close to expectations in general, but each town and each practice is a unique environment. In general, the further west one goes the more limited the resources and support.
Would you recommend others consider a career in GP? Why/why not?
Absolutely, but one must have a desire for challenges and be prepared to work with their patients, not only medically but emotionally and at times putting your own emotions to one side is required.