Locum Location - Albany, WA
Albany Health Campus, WA: A FACEM's rural revelation. Your next must-do placement.
How did you settle in? Any tips for new arrivals?
Easy to settle in, very quick orientation with most of the information provided.
Were the systems easy to get used to/ nursing staff helpful?
Systems are fairly easy to use, however multiple IT systems are used. I have previously worked in WACHS where I received a half day orientation including how to use the IT systems so I was familiar already. If not familiar with WACHS health IT systems then I think either an information sheet, online module or in person training would be helpful. Nursing staff and other doctors have all been helpful throughout my placements.
How was the travel, logistics and accommodation?
No issues with travel, logistics and the accommodation is very comfortable.
What was the accommodation like?
I stayed in a very comfortable, 1 bedroom house, with a fully stocked kitchen and laundry facilities.
What was the support for locum doctors like in the department?
Support has been excellent. No on-calls in my first week as I settled in to the department. The local FACEM will mostly hold the phone to assist with calls due to knowing logistics of the local area better.
How was access to imaging etc.? Were there any specialists on call?
Access to imaging is good, onsite radiology until 11pm, reporting had mostly been very very quick. Reporting after hours through Intelerad, easy to call and speak to someone. Only 2 sonographers in town.
On average, how many presentations were there to the ED each day? What were you dealing with?
I would see 5-8 patients of my own per shift plus reviewing some of the JMOs patients. Some interesting very high acuity cases. Septic shock, paediatric status epilepticus, severe trauma, cardiac arrest. As well as a lot of fast track - lacerations & fractures etc.
Would you go back? If so, why? Would you recommend the location (And to whom would you recommend it?)
Yes, I would definitely come back. Good ED cases, functional department, always working with another FACEM, capable registrars and nurses. Also a beautiful place with many things to do on days off.
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