Alex may appear as a quiet and slightly introverted person. However, deep down, he is passionate about his career as a Cardiologist and the patient he cares for. At the end of a busy day, he looks forward to coming home to his wife and daughters. They would share their ins and outs of their days over dinner. He may have left Perth, Western Australia 10years ago. However, Perth is always a second home to him, a place with many fond memories. To this day, he still visits it often with his family and you might just see him wandering around the grounds of UWA.
Deliver cutting edge treatment
I am passionate about medicine and how fast paced developments constant bring new treatment modalities to those in need. The field of Cardiology has always fascinated me throughout my studies. From how a simple electrocardiogram (ECG) can provide invaluable information telling us about one's heart, to advanced imaging modalities that aids in our treatment and management of patients. With the improvement and development of new medications and devices, we are able to deliver cutting edge treatment for those with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions to give them better quality and quantity of life.
Time is a challenge
Time. We work in a busy environment managing patients both in an outpatient (clinic) and inpatient (hospital) setting. The doctor patient relationship is a crucial factor in the management and treatment of our patients. Having adequate time spent understanding their conditions and concerns, communicating plans and recommendations is critical to a positive outcome.
Internalise the values of our mentors
It would be difficult and perhaps unfair to name my most important professional mentor. Instead, I propose that we will in our journey meet various inspiring mentors. More importantly, we should adopt and internalise the values of our mentors to guide and make us into better people in life and paying it forward.
My UWA experience
The opportunity to interact with other students and tutors/lecturers from a different environment, culture and country.
UWA gave me a strong foundation built upon sound medical knowledge, virtues that guide me in my career such as empathy and the desire for continued learning. This allowed me to embark on a challenging career as a doctor which involved busy work schedules, managing live and death situations while at the same time undergoing further training. I am also reminded of the need to juggle career, family and personal space in order to strike a balanced and positive lifestyle that will put me in a better position to go about my day to day work
What advice would you give a student on Day 1 at UWA?
Be in the moment from day one. Start your journey with possibilities and a positive attitude.