Locum life with Dr Mohammad

Dr Mohammad Reza Alavi has been working as a General Medicine locum doctor with Medrecruit since 2018 with placements across Australia, including Coffs Harbour, Murwillumbah, Harvey Bay, and Bundaberg.

"Working as a locum admitting General Medicine registrar can be very challenging as you deal with the sickest patients most of the time, but it can be a very valuable experience also."

Dr Alavi's most recent placements were at Bundaberg and Hervey Bay, offering two different experiences.

Bundaberg, located in Queensland, Australia, is known for its rich heritage, lush agricultural lands, and as the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. It holds a special place in Australia's history, primarily for its sugar cane industry, which has flourished since the late 19th century. The city's subtropical climate provides perfect conditions for growing sugar cane, and Bundaberg has become synonymous with its internationally recognised rum, produced at the Bundaberg Rum Distillery.

Hervey Bay is also located in Queensland and is renowned for its natural beauty and unique wildlife. Nestled along the Fraser Coast, the city serves as the gateway to Fraser Island, the world's largest sand island, listed as a World Heritage site for its unspoiled beaches, ancient rainforests, and remarkable freshwater lakes. Hervey Bay itself is celebrated for its calm, crystal-clear waters, which are ideal for swimming, fishing, sailing, and particularly, whale watching. Between July and November, the bay becomes a haven for humpback whales, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close as they migrate through the sheltered waters.

"The hospitals are almost the same, not much difference. But in terms of the city, Hervey Bay has got more places to explore, especially restaurants. However, Bundaberg has its own beauties."

Both locations share the accessibility to stunning coastlines and unique wildlife. Hervey Bay allows you to relax and recharge as you wander pristine coastlines, and when visiting Bundaberg, you can travel to nearby Fraser Island and the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

"I didn't get out too much, but I managed to see a few places, including turtles in Bundaberg and whale watching in Hervey Bay."

One of the great things about locum life is that it allows doctors to gain new skills and have new experiences at hospitals all over Australia.

"Every hospital has its own environment, but generally speaking, most of the staff are friendly and helpful," explained Dr Alavi.

When asked to describe his experience with Medrecruit, Dr Alavi exclaimed, "best, best, best!"