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Why did you decide to become a locum doctor?
I was driven mainly by the emerging COVID crisis in 2019/20 rather than by becoming a locum doctor specifically. The locum position assisted transitioning from clinic based medicine to public health which has become a new career direction.
What attracted you to locum with Medic Oncall?
Medic Oncall have managed my current locum position from the project’s outset in a most personable and professional manner. I was contacted by another service however due to my positive experience with Medic Oncall felt no inclination to change.
Think back to when you first registered with Medic Oncall, how was the overall process from registering to getting your first locum shift?
It was ok, the amount of documentation was excessive if I recall correctly. However once this hurdle was negotiated the process became seamless.
What do you think makes a great locum doctor?
I think being flexible and working and communicating effectively within a team is key. The current locum position has demanded many clinical changes as policy directions alter in accordance with COVID’s changing landscape. Team function in this setting is paramount.
What have you learned about yourself through the locum work that you do?
Through necessity as a practitioner being able to adapt to a crisis and changes in health needs of the broader community. This contrasts with previous clinic work which has a more narrow scope in comparison.
What are the three main benefits of working as a locum?
A change can be as good as a holiday. New work, new people and unique challenges make locum work rewarding.
How has locum work affected your personal life and work-life balance?
The pandemic has produced an excessive workload for most medical practitioners especially when considering clinic and locum work together. Awareness and self management are critical as no one else can or will do it for you.
Can you tell us about your most memorable location you have worked at as a locum? Why was it so memorable?
Cairns was pretty special as I dived on the Great Barrier Reef on every day off.
What advice do you have for new doctors?
Enjoy your work and have interests outside of the job you do. Stay connected with colleagues to share ideas and solutions to problems. If you need help have a low threshold for asking for it.
At Medic Oncall, we specialise in clinical and non-clinical solutions for doctors, healthcare providers, government, corporate and event organisations.
As a leading provider of healthcare services, locum doctor staffing, and medical workforce management, we are committed to finding solutions that work for our doctors and our clients.
To join Dr Dale Allen and the many doctors working locum around Australia, register your interest today!
