I studied a Bachelor of Medical Science at Flinders University, then I did honours in Health Science at the University of Adelaide. I had a topic on Point of Care Testing (PoCT - pathology testing performed at the site of patient care) during my undergraduate degree, which attracted me to a position as a medical scientist at the Australian Point of Care Practitioner's Network.
After the project funding ceased, I moved across to Integrated Cardiovascular Clinical Network (iCCnet), Country Health SA Local Health Network (CHSALHN) and became one of the Clinical Network Scientists, which also involves managing Point of Care Testing across the CHSALHN hospitals and medical centres.
On an average day, we assist with queries from country nurses and GPs, which can range from technical support for their point of care equipment to queries regarding quality control/patient results interpretation.
We monitor the internal quality control and external quality assurance programs for the point of care equipment. We also oversee the distribution of point of care consumables to the hospitals and medical centres, as well as organising and providing monthly clinical education sessions for all the health services.
I love that every day is always slightly different and there's always some new projects on the horizon. I love that I get to converse and provide support to the country nurses and GPs at the coal face and assist when they have issues with their equipment. I also love that I get to work with such an amazing, passionate and innovative team here at iCCnet CHSALHN.
I believe in and enjoy the work I do. Seeing new and emerging PoCT technologies motivates me in trying to find innovative solutions to overcome barriers and allow these services to be as accessible in rural and metropolitan areas. To be able to provide this outstanding service to CHSALHN is extremely rewarding.
I think some of the benefits of working in the public sector is the skills, training and professional development opportunities that you receive. It's a great working environment, with the added benefit of job security too.
I've grown up and studied in South Australia, so when I was fortunate enough to start my career here in this beautiful state, I jumped at the chance. My family and friends are here and I'm lucky to be able to contribute back to the South Australian community, as well as to explore what's in our own backyard - from the coast to the hills and everything in between.
