FACEM locum in a Private ED – QLD

We recently had a chat with one of our valued FACEM doctors.

Amy has just completed her first locum in a private Emergency Department hospital with us, in sunny QLD.

We are finding private hospital locum work becoming increasingly popular with the doctors we work with – Read on to find out about Amy’s experience and check out some of the photos she took whilst on her locum – Perhaps you could be the next FACEM to try it out? 

How was your first day? Did you find it easy to settle in?

The first day went very smoothly – Better than I expected! Sometimes it can be difficult to get setup on a first day at a new hospital, but Kerry in medical administration helped to set up my IT access with ease and the nurses were very helpful in showing me how things work in ED.

QLD can be hot and humid! How did you find the accommodation? Was a car included?

I had a private self-contained unit that had cooking facilities which and Air-con! That was very handy – and close to the hospital. A car was provided also for ease of getting around town. There are plenty of nice beaches in to explore – look out for the stingers net if you are keen for a swim at the beach, often there are safety guards patrolling the beach to ensure safety.

Did anything surprise you? Advice for new doctors working in a private ED for the first time?

The hospital was quite well equipped with medical and surgical specialities. I didn’t have any trouble with referring any patients for admission here. Ask questions! Be kind and respectful to everyone.

You also get fed lunch and dinner which was a nice touch!

What are the main differences of private versus public?

Patients pay to be seen and have investigations done in Private EDs, as well as when being admitted to the hospital, most investigations including MRI can be organised much quicker in the private setting. Unfortunately, there are limited beds in the private hospital, so we can’t always accept ambulance transfers.

How many patients on average did you see?

Ranging between 10-20 per shift. You will also need to supervise JMO’s patients.

What did you like about working in QLD?

The beaches, warmer weather and there was plenty to do and see!

Did you do much exploring around the area? Any cool spots you’d recommend to check out?

Toomulla beach is so beautiful. Also Magnetic island (the locals call in Maggie island). There’s a hike up Mount Elliot with small rock pools at the top for soaking- It closed when I was there due to floods – I’ll check it out next time I return!

The Strand – along the beach was nice to walk down, there’s a kid water park, 50m swimming pool at Tobruk memorial baths, salt water Rockpool – good for a run then swim after!