Tate Papworth
A prominent western suburbs doctor continues to lead the way in the field of Neurology.
Professor Tissa Wijeratne was recently the first Australian recipient of two major awards.
Professor Wijeratne became the inaugural recipient of the Ted Munsat award for global education in neurology, presented by the American Academy of Neurology.
He was recognised for his work as chair of the Migraine Foundation and as chair of Western Health’s Department of Neurology and Stroke Services.
His advocacy also earned him the American Academy of Neurology patient advocate of the year award.
While blown away by the recognition, Professor Wijeratne said it was a humbling experience.
“These awards will hopefully continue to extract the best out of me,” he said.
“I’m a firm believer that humans have a unique ability when in dire situations, to come up with real gold response.
“The current COVID-19 crisis isn’t one I see as doom and gloom, but an opportunity for humans to rise above what is expected of us.”
While the virus isn’t a neurological one, Professor Wijeratne said it’s rapidly changing the whole health landscape.
“This isn’t a world war, but we are soldiors in this world,” he said.
“Whatever society and hospitals need, we need to work together as a broad group and that includes given away beds and resources allocated for neurology.”
Changes have already been implemented into how his department conducts daily business.
“Data showsus who can save lives and it isn’t us – it’s the public. If we get them to stay at home, if 90 per cent stay home, we can really minimize the harm.
“So we have been offering phone based consult as much as possible to support keeping people at home.
“We’ve also given up the daily coffee chats and turned them into video chats.”
