A DOCTOR with more than 35 years medical experience has taken up a permanent appointment at Mornington Island Hospital.
North West Hospital and Health Board Chair Paul Woodhouse said former, long-time Normanton Hospital doctor, Chris Gilford had started work on Australia Day as the Mornington Island Medical Superintendent.
Mr Woodhouse said he was thrilled the health service had been able to recruit someone of Dr Gilford’s calibre.
“Recruiting experienced permanent doctors to positions at remote facilities has always been challenging,’’ he said.
“At Mornington Island, the permanent doctor’s position has been vacant for more than five years.
“During that period, the position has been filled continuously with high-quality regular rotating locums, so medical services have not been affected.
“I’d like to thank our staff at Mornington Island Hospital for strongly supporting the regular locum medical service over the past few years.
“But for consistency of care, it is always preferable to have a permanent appointee in place.
Mr Woodhouse said Dr Gilford was no stranger to Mornington Island.
“Since leaving his previous position as Medical Superintendent at Normanton Hospital in March 2013, Dr Gilford has undertaken some locum placements at Mornington Island,’’ he said.
“It was these locum placements that convinced him and his partner that they wanted to return to Mornington Island.’’
Dr Gilford said he was looking forward to bringing his skills, knowledge and experience to his new role.
“I really enjoy the diversity of rural practice. I like the mix rural practice offers of inpatient care, emergency cases and the chance to consult regularly with general practice clients,’’ he said.
“Mornington Island offers a unique working environment and I plan to listen to local staff and residents about their ideas on what will work on the island, so we can work together for the benefit of the community.
“I also have to say Mornington Island will offer me many opportunities personally.
“Waking up on an island home is a lovely way to start your working day and my fishing skills have definite room for improvement.’’
Dr Gilford completed his medical training in London before immigrating to Australia.
He has since honed his clinical expertise in general practice, working for more than 30 years in rural and regional centres in New South Wales, Western Australia and Queensland, including 13 years at Normanton Hospital.