Sarina Hospital has welcomed three permanent Senior Medical Officers.
Acting Medical Superintendent Dr Thian Barnard was working at the Mackay Base Hospital Emergency Department three years ago when he started part-time work at Sarina.
He fell in love with the hospital and community and in April last year moved to a full-time position and in November relocated his family to Sarina.
Dr Jillian Ferrell has also made the move from Mackay Base ED to Sarina Hospital. Having worked there for a few months in 2015 as a Principal House Officer, Jillian was delighted to be offered a placement so close to her home in Sarina Beach.
With Dr James Boland taking on the role of the third SMO at Sarina Hospital in February the three are very happy to get to know their colleagues on a professional and personal level.
Thian says the smaller workforce has led to greater cohesion in goals.
“There is only one team in Sarina and everyone’s priorities align 100% which results in a fantastic work environment and a safe and pleasant journey for our patients, which is ultimately what it is all about.”
The fact that the three are permanent also allows them to get to know their patients over the course of their diagnoses and treatments.
Jillian said it was a big step forward for the community to establish continuity of care.
“As local doctors we are invested in the community and our patient’s health. Hopefully the community gains a sense of ‘security’ knowing we are here and here to stay,” she said.
