My Approach

Clinical

I strongly believe in the principle of “patient-centred care”, communicating closely with you, your family, and the other clinicians involved in your medical care.

Your individual healthcare preferences are extremely important in the process of shared decision-making.

I respect the cultural diversity of my patients, and their individual preferences regarding healthcare decisions.

Your voice is extremely important, and you have the final say in planning your medical care and treatment.

I encourage you to become actively involved in your healthcare decisions.

Research

I have published on the importance of Evidence-Based Healthcare, and actively search the scientific literature for the latest high-quality research on diagnosis, treatment options, surgical techniques, and outcomes in neurosurgery. I then apply this knowledge to achieve the best possible results for my patients.

You may be invited to contribute to research projects that are being undertaken at the centres where I work.

I work closely with a variety of researchers, including laboratory scientists, clinicians, allied health professionals, and patient advocates.

Your involvement in neuroscience research helps to shape the future of neurosurgery and cancer treatments.

I wish to acknowledge and thank all my patients who participate in research studies and clinical trials.

Teaching

I am actively involved in medical education across the spectrum of healthcare, teaching medical students, junior doctors, neurosurgeons in training, and specialist surgeons.

As my patient, you will have access to all the skills and experience that this team approach brings.

I also contribute to teaching activities for nurses, allied health professionals, and the public through education sessions, community events, and patient forums.

You should be reassured that participation in teaching activities will positively impact your care, as we all benefit from the knowledge obtained through sharing ideas and the greater communication that comes from active learning.

I invite you to share your patient experience with our learners, as they become the healthcare leaders of the future.

Community

I am committed to my individual patients and respect the doctor-patient relationship.

As a surgeon, I am also committed to protecting and advocating for the health and well-being of the wider public.

Maintaining trust and confidence in the medical profession demands that doctors maintain a close working relationship with individual patients, as well as following a Code of Conduct that defines the professional behaviours expected of all surgeons.

You can expect to benefit from these professional standards, as I strive to demonstrate excellence in clinical care, research, and healthcare education.

I will continue to give back to the community and to my profession by serving as a medical expert, a teacher, a leader, and a proud military veteran.

As a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, I affirm my commitment to the College Pledge:

I pledge to always act in the best interests of my patients, respecting their autonomy and rights.
I undertake to improve my knowledge and skills, evaluate, and reflect on my performance.
I agree to continue learning and teaching for the benefit of my patients, my trainees and my community.
I will be respectful of my colleagues, and readily offer them my assistance and support.
I will abide by the Code of Conduct of this College, and will never allow considerations of financial reward, career advancement, or reputation to compromise my judgement or the care I provide.
I accept the responsibility and challenge of being a surgeon and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.