Make a real impact on regional communities with exclusive opportunities in Northern NSW
Psychiatrist Dr Edward Wims talks to us about his passion for mental health care and how the opportunities on offer in Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSW LHD) could be the career move you’ve been waiting for.
With a service that embraces change and encourages career development and a location that has something for everyone, this is the ideal time to take the next step in your Psychiatry career. Find out why, after traveling the country and experiencing 16 different mental health services, Dr Wims chose to settle and work in this region.
Thanks for talking to us today Dr Wims. Can you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
I've been Clinical Director for the Richmond Clarence Network in NNSW LHD for just over two years and I'm delighted to say that I genuinely really love my job! Originally from Ireland, I fell in love with Australia when I was a backpacker many years ago. I’ve been living here for 12 years now and moved extensively during that time before settling down in Northern NSW.
Why did you decide to become a Psychiatrist?
I believe as Doctors we can truly make a difference in people’s lives, and while Psychiatry might not have the glamour of the transplant unit or the adrenaline of the Emergency Department, good psychiatric care can be every bit as lifesaving. Mental health patients, particularly in the public system, are often quite disenfranchised and the ability to advocate for them is very rewarding.
Why did you choose to work for NNSW LHD Mental Health Service?
Since starting my career in Psychiatry, I've worked in 16 different mental health services, but this is the one in which I've chosen to stay. I believe the service encourages excellence, notices and nurtures potential, and enables all clinicians to make a change for the better.
I’m also passionate about our vision for the future. We have a strong focus on the provision of trauma-informed care and our aim is to develop a responsive service, which reduces Emergency Department admissions and enables the patient to have their needs met as close to home as possible.
What do you enjoy most about your role as Clinical Director?
I came to Lismore for the job that was on offer but decided to stay because of the people. We are blessed to have an eclectic workforce made up of locals, people from interstate and overseas. All the staff are warm and friendly and are forever looking for innovative ways to provide the best possible care to our patients.
I also take a strong interest in undergraduate and postgraduate education and all staff are supported in attending courses locally, interstate or overseas. We also actively encourage our Psychiatrists to develop a special interest to keep them motivated and challenged. It’s a huge thrill to see my colleagues achieve great outcomes and see our patients leave the ward in a much better place than they've ever been in before.
Take advantage of the ideal climate in Northern NSW
What’s the best thing about living in Northern NSW?
I've traveled all around Australia and truly believe that this is one of the most magical and beautiful parts of the country. There is an eclectic mix of cultures and backgrounds as well as environmental diversity with beaches, bush, rain forests, and national parks. Having the ideal climate means I can plan an outdoor event with almost 100% certainty that the weather’s going to be great!
We're also close enough to the Gold Coast and Brisbane to get a fix of city life and with three airports close by, getting further afield is easier than most other regional centres.
What opportunities are currently available for Psychiatrists wanting to join NNSW LHD?
We have opportunities for Psychiatrists in Older Adult, General Adult Inpatient and General Adult Community.
Who would be best suited for these roles?
Ultimately, we’re seeking Psychiatrists with a strong value system, who are committed to excellent patient care and value working as a team. We’re also looking for people who want to step up as leaders and advocate for their patients and colleagues.
And lastly, what are the top 3 reasons why Psychiatrists should consider working for NNSW LHD Mental Health Service?
- We have an enthusiastic team with a strong sense of camaraderie. They are the sort of Doctors you would like to look after your own family.
- We are committed to training, education and development and you’ll have opportunities to develop your area of special interest. For example, one of our Psychiatrists is completing the advanced training certificate in Older Persons Psychiatry, while another has recently attended a perinatal and infant mental health course in Vancouver.
- The service is not afraid of change and indeed embraces it. You can use your expertise to develop innovative models of care and make a real impact on mental health care in the region.
Thanks for talking to us today Dr Wims and for sharing your insights into these opportunities. To hear more about NNSW LHD Mental Health Service, watch our video featuring interviews with Dr Wims and the General Manager of Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol Services, Deidre Robinson.
If you are a passionate and progressive Psychiatrist, and you want to take the next step in your career, register your interest and we will contact you for a confidential conversation.