Families across the west are being encouraged to celebrate the significance of some of the most important people in their lives – family doctors.
Next week is the Australian Medical Association’s annual Family Doctor Week, which recognises the dedication and hard work of local general practitioners.
Dr Rob Hosking is one such doctor. During his 23 years serving the Bacchus Marsh community, he has worked with generations of family members and been vital in helping many families with their primary health care.
“It’s very rewarding to see families grow up and go through their joys and trials and tribulations, health concerns or social concerns,” Dr Hosking said.
“A couple of babies I’ve delivered are just having babies now, too.”
Dr Hosking said most people aimed to continue seeing the same doctor for as long as possible, especially once they felt comfortable with the GP.
He said as well as establishing a long-term relationship with a single doctor it was just as important for patients to form a connection with the medical centre so that in case the family doctor was unavailable health records would still be easily accessible.
“The continuity with a particular practice is ideal and if you can make a long-term relationship with one doctor that’s a great thing too.”
GPs this week are also taking the opportunity to remind patients to have regular check-ups and focus on preventive health.
This year’s Family Doctor Week theme is ‘Your Family Doctor – Keeping you Healthy’. The week is from July 21-27.
