22 May 2019

Resident Medical Officers (RMOs) have provided plenty of positive feedback about working at Whanganui Hospital in the latest Hospital Review, just published by the Resident Doctors' Association.

Workloads, training, RMO facilities, catering and dispute resolution all get a big tick, according to the review.

"Workload is generally manageable and RMOs mostly leave on time," the review says.

"This, in combination with the strong collegial culture amongst RMOs, means RMOs who are available during the day are willing to assist other colleagues with heavy workloads."

The review also highlights development opportunities for those at the start of their careers.

“As it’s a small hospital, there’s more clinical responsibility, closer working relationships with SMOs, and greater procedural opportunities which are invaluable for developing an RMO’s competence and clinical practice.

“So the RMO experience is much more than completing paperwork.

“After hours provides opportunity for RMOs covering surgical or O&G/paediatrics to go to theatre for various acute cases.”

The review says senior doctors are generally friendly, approachable – “and readily hold teaching sessions twice per week”.

“The Senior Medical Officers (SMOs) are also supportive in relation to procedures and often encourage RMOs to perform the procedure under their supervision, especially in ED.”

Working conditions have become “more friendly and responsive” following a meeting between RMOs and management, and the review cites the convenience of easy commutes to work and free parking.

And the Whanganui region has gone down well with the doctors.

“Whanganui is a beautiful place … conveniently located to other areas of the north island for outdoor activities,” the review says, while highlighting the affordable cost of living.

“Whanganui provides a wide range of learning opportunities to develop your clinical practice with good support from fellow RMOs, SMOs and other hospital staff, in addition to a good work-life balance with a variety of activities to keep one busy outside of work.”