In a much-needed boost to the Gold Coast’s health sector, 92 new doctors have begun their careers at the University Hospital.
The region’s newest life-savers are completing their orientation at the Gold Coast University Hospital today.
The new doctors are part of a record $1.944 billion State Government investment for Gold Coast Health, which was increased since the previous year to keep up with the city’s booming population.
Many of this year’s interns have come from Gold Coast universities, such as Griffith and Bond, with a smaller cohort from other universities across Queensland, as well as interstate.
Gold Coast MP Minister Meaghan Scanlon says it’s a vital boost for the city.
“The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s fastest-growing areas, and our new doctors will play a critical role in helping to meet the demand for important health services,” Minister Scanlon says.
“They join thousands of hardworking health staff across our city and some 2,400 extra frontline staff hired by Gold Coast Health since the Palaszczuk Government was elected in 2015.”
This week’s orientation will ensure all new doctors have a thorough understanding of their roles and responsibilities and are ready to hit the ground running when they begin their placement.
Acting Executive Director of Medical Services Dr Raghu Murthy said junior doctors would spend time shadowing staff on the wards which is an important part of the orientation process.
“Shadowing has proven invaluable to date in assisting interns to be work-ready when they start on day one,” Dr Murthy says.
“This is where our new doctors have the opportunity to not only get a feel for the wards and their new workplace, but they can ask questions and really get up to speed on all of the processes and procedures.”
The doctors will also participate in training workshops as part of their orientation, refining their skills in Basic Life Support and Infection Control.
