George Nohra 2020 Nick Collins Award Winner

I had the honour and privilege of representing the WSU medical school and Dr Nick Collins, at this year’s GP19 conference. It was an experience which will remain one of the highlights of medical school, and I would like to sincerely thank the GP faculty and the generous donors of the Nick Collins award, for providing the opportunity. GP19 is the annual conference for the RACGP, and it allowed me to experience all the wonderful aspects of the profession! I attended multiple teaching sessions on a wide range of medical topics; and I had the privilege of meeting current leaders of medicine in Australia, future mentors and colleagues.

On the first afternoon, there was a welcome reception which provided an opportunity to welcome the guests and announce New Zealand as the destination for the conference in 2021. It was here that I had the honour of meeting a legend in the field of medicine, and especially general practice in Australia, Professor John Murtagh!

The next day began with a plenary on voluntary assisted dying. I then attended sessions which showcased research conducted by my WSU colleagues, on GP career choices and practice. After this, I attended sessions on chronic kidney disease, point of care testing, gout, and aged care.

That night, I had the privilege of attending the GP19 Gala dinner night as the guest of Professor Jenny Reath. I was able to meet more colleagues and leaders of the profession, and gained an understanding of some of the current work being done for future clinical practice reform, teaching, and advocating for GP registrars. The night was definitely the highlight of the conference!

The following morning included further plenary presentations on expectations of future patients and the ECHO model. The conference concluded with a “Pitchfest”, where potential future healthcare projects were pitched to potential investors, and finally, a session on business in general practice.

GP19 was a highlight of my time in medical school, and further cemented my interest and passion for general practice. Professor Reath helped me to network with future colleagues and mentors, and I can honestly say that I came away from the conference, having advanced my personal, professional and academic development!

George Nohra and Jenny Reath at GP19 Gala Dinner