Dr Mohammad Islam has undertaken his GP training in Griffith, including two terms at Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service, he has found training in Aboriginal health a great way to develop skills as a GP and enjoys working as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I was born in Bangladesh. I graduated from the University of Dhaka. After finishing my MBBS I wanted to travel and looking for better training opportunities and I chose Australia. My wife is also a general practitioner who is working in Griffith. We have 2 beautiful girls who have settled in well at primary schools here.
Apart from being a doctor I love cooking and often play flute and paint. I enjoy learning new languages and I speak fluently in four languages.
What do you like most about community-based GP training?
I believe it’s one life and we all must make the most of it. I want to be a good doctor and at the same time be a good husband and dad. All these roles require balance and GP job can provide a better life balance.
What are the benefits of an Aboriginal health training post
Working in an Aboriginal medical service is a great place to develop skills as a GP as it focuses on different dynamics of the health care system, where a patient needs holistic approach.
What are the challenges working in Aboriginal health and how do you overcome them?
Sometimes a patient does not follow up for their chronic care management and to overcome that we work in a multidisciplinary team to provide the best support.
Why did you decide to become a Registrar Liaison Officer?
I love challenges and I think it’s a fantastic opportunity to work with registrars as a liaison person to provide support and guidance when they need help and face difficulty.
What do you enjoy about living and working in Griffith?
Griffith is a small town and very different from from suburban Melbourne where I was located before. Even though it’s a small town it still ticks lot of boxes in terms of modern lifestyle and I am glad I chose Griffith.
What are your career plans after fellowship?
I will be working at my usual practice as a GP. Also, I will buy a caravan, and my wife and I will go to remote Australia to provide services, probably a few times a year.
