OUM Student Magazine: Issue October 2022

Oceania University of Medicine Student Magazine

Issue: October 2022 ISSN 2653-6706

'If we do not dream, we will not dare.

If we do not dare, we will not realize what we have dreamed.'

- Taffy Gould

CONTENTS Welcome

4

The Student Magazine Team & New Logo

5

The OUMSA

6-7

What is the OUMSA? How do I join?

Message from the President OUMSA & Country Liaisons Contacts

Meet the OUM Student Ambassadors

8-9

OSCEs July 2022: Jessica Bell

10-11

Samoa: October 2022

12-13

Graduate Profile: Dr. Caroline Francois Esho

14-15

Faculty Profile: Dr. Ahmed Muhsin

16-17

Student Profile: Junaid Minhas

18-19

Specialty Profile: Professor Paddy Dewan Kind Cuts For Kids Project

20 21

OUM Sponsorship: Ambulance Wish Queensland

22-23

Quote of the Issue

24

A Typical OUM Student's Day

25

The Benefits of Music: Phillip Prosia

26-27

Happy Halloween: Crystal Jesenick

28-29

Handwashing and Sanitation

30-31

Welcome back to the Student Magazine!

Editor-in-Chief's Message In July 2022 we launched the first issue of the OUM Student Magazine!

The launch was a success, with thousands of readers accessing the link from across the globe. In this issue we dive in a little deeper, so we would like to say thank you for your continued support.

Finally, we would like to welcome the most recent class of July 2022! We hope that you have settled into your studies at OUM and wish you all the best for the remainder of the academic year.

Jessica Bell Editor-in-Chief

Vice Chancellor's Message It is my great pleasure to endorse the second edition of our Student Magazine. It continues to be an excellent forum for dissemination of current topics of general interest and a vehicle for promoting a cohesive, supportive culture within OUM. Those of you who attended the recent University-Wide Meeting would have heard my announcement of the new tagline for our university, “In pursuit of individual excellence.” It will appear on all official university material as our new motto. However, we must not just quote this powerful statement, but we must all live the words in our university journey together. Each and every one of us, whether faculty or students, must strive to achieve the lofty but fully attainable goals of this motto, so that together we climb to the highest standards of educational achievement.

I know that you will all join me in this challenging task.

Professor Hugh Bartholomeusz Vice Chancellor

OUM Student Magazine The OUM Student Magazine LOGO OUMSM

The OUMSM is proud to display our new logo. The logo's creation was a team effort; designed to represent the initiative behind the magazine's founding. The colours were carefully chosen to represent the university brand; the globe was chosen to represent OUM's diverse student network; and lastly, the pages were chosen to represent the authenticity of the e-magazine. The logo, as a whole, represents the global student initiative of the OUM Student Magazine.

The OUMSM TEAM Editor and Content Creator Phillip Prosia Phillip is a thirty-five years old student in his second year at OUM and also an experienced Podiatrist in Melbourne, Australia. Phillip has completed a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from RMIT University in Melbourne; and a Bachelor of Health Science/Master of Podiatric Practice at Latrobe University in Melbourne (dual degree). In his spare time, Phillip is also a budding chef, drawing from experience passed down to him from his Italian Nonna.

Editor and Content Creator Billy Waters Billy was raised in Ohio, before moving to Australia where he graduated from the University of New England (UNE) with a Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours). Billy is currently in his third year at OUM and continues to work for the Australian Defence Force as a Reservist. As an editor and content creator for the magazine, he hopes to provide a platform that will educate and inform others.

If you are interested in joining the Student Magazine team, or you would like to submit an article for publication;

email: studentmagazine@oum.edu.ws

WHAT IS THE OUMSA? OUMSA is an international chapter of the American Medical Student Association (AMSA). Collaboratively, the elected OUMSA delegates advocate for the student body, by providing a unified voice to the OUM administration. The OUMSA representatives are here to support the students and collaborate to reach mutual goals.

The 2022 OUMSA delegates recently launched the Country Liaison initiative, which recognizes a student from each country to advocate for the students within their region. The liaisons were introduced in the July 2022 issue.

How do students join?

AMSA offers two different international medical membership options and installment plans on four-year memberships. All members receive a free welcome gift upon joining! $75 4-year International Medical Membership $35 1-year International Medical Membership https://www.amsa.org/member/intern ational-medical-student/

DISCOUNTS AMSA partners with businesses and organizations to offer our members discounts and deals to make life a little more affordable. Check back often as new partners are added frequently!

50% off for AMSA members ($104 off annually)

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE I am excited by what has been accomplished this year, and what is still to come.

The OUMSA is currently working on a student-to-student mentoring program, which we are hoping to introduce at the beginning of the new academic year. In preparation for the new program, we would like all students to consider the prospect of future mentorship/ menteeship. Programs such as this support and empower personal development, so we encourage all students to seriously consider this opportunity.

On another note, the OUMSA is currently creating an Instagram page; so be sure to keep on the lookout for the introduction of our additional social media platform.

Lastly, if you have any issues that the OUMSA can help you with, please free to contact any of us. Our virtual doors are always open.

I cannot wait to hear from all of you and please do not hesitate to reach out for any assistance.

Crystal Jesnick

THE OUMSA DELEGATES

President Crystal Jesenick

Vice President Jessica Bell

Secretary Marsha Brackeen

crystal.jesenick@oum.edu.ws

jess.bell@oum.edu.ws

marsha.brackeen@oum.edu.ws

Communications Officer Tracy Lindstrom

Treasurer Alphonsa Okibedi

tracy.lindstrom@oum.edu.ws

alphonsa.okibedi@oum.edu.ws

oumsa@oum.edu.ws OUMSA COUNTRY LIASIONS

Australia Billy Waters billy.waters@oum.edu.ws

New Zealand Lorelei Hennessy

Samoa Uila Laifa-Lima

USA Folake Adekunle

lorelei.hennessy@oum.edu.ws uila.laifa-lima@oum.edu.ws folake.adekunle@oum.edu.ws

Meet the 2022

Student Ambassadors

The Student Ambassador Program was founded by the 2022 OUMSA delegates with the hope of providing an opportunity for students to gain valuable mentoring and leadership experience, while networking with new and prospective students.

Being an OUM Student Ambassador comes with the responsibility of highlighting the important aspects of the student experience, and enthusing new students to achieve their highest potential, whilst maintaining the ethical, moral, and professional standards expected of our student cohort.

Introducing OUM's Pre-Clinical Ambassadors Australia Jason Quick Jason is nearing the end of his system-based modules, and is very excited about moving into the next phase . . . rotations!

When Jason is not off on an adventure, he's working casually in paramedicine, or as a clinical education specialist for a peak body, 'for surgeons'. As a Student Ambassador, Jason looks forward to connecting with new students, offering them tips and tricks to keep them engaged, to help them continue learning, and to come out the other end with a big smile on their faces!

Australia Norman Chu Norman is in his second year at OUM and currently resides in Toowoomba, Queensland. Norman has just started working as a disability support worker and is enjoying the learning curve and the interactions he has with a range of people. As a student ambassador, Norman is looking forward to making lasting relationships with prospective and current students; and being available to support students as an OUM ambassador. He wants students to know that his door is always open and to feel free to contact him, as he is always up for a chat

Introducing OUM's Clinical Ambassadors Samoa Uila Laifa-Lima Uila was an experienced Registered Nurse before beginning a career as a lecturer in the Faculty of Health Sciences School of Nursing, at the National University of Samoa. Uila is a recipient of the Taffy Gould Scholarship who is looking forward to participating in the OSCE finals. Uila is passionate about the Student Ambassadors program and plans to continue her service after she has graduated, to benefit the people of Samoa

USA Elizabeth Mills Elizabeth is an ICU nurse turned nurse practitioner, in Alabama, with 11 years of experience. Elizabeth has lived all over the US and is currently studying for her board exam and completing her research project in Texas. Elizabeth is completing her last elective, radiology, in Samoa and will then apply for a surgical residency next cycle. As a Student Ambassador, Elizabeth looks forward to assisting prospective students matriculate to OUM.

Australia Manu Bains Manu is a fourth-year clinical student at OUM with varied experience as a Director of Podiatry in WA and as an Area Manager in a busy metropolitan hospital. He is a passionate traveler, music lover, and life coach. As a Student Ambassador, Manu has three tips for prospective students; 1. Look at the bigger picture and be motivated by the end goal 2. Stay optimistic and surround yourself with positive people 3. Don't reinvent the wheel.

OUM provides a unique and fascinating platform where the impossible is now possible. So make sure you understand the support systems and develop customised study strategies that work for you.

OSCEs JULY 2022

The July 2022 Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) were held on the 16th in Brisbane, Australia.

OSCEs are a form of assessment used across all medical schools to accurately assess varied clinical competencies, communication, and practical skills.

They typically comprise a circuit of stations, which assess a range of skills including; practical skills, history taking, clinical communication, examinations, and procedures.

OUM students, Ahmed, Simon, John, Fariba and Suzie (pictured left to right), entered the building one after the other.

The tension was palpable as they awaited their final assessments.

OSCEs can be a little daunting, but they are also the perfect reminder of just how far you have come in your journey towards becoming a doctor.

It was clear that those in attendance strived to rise to the university's motto.

The OSCEs are held several times a year, once OUM students have completed all of the mandatory requirements.

Well done to each of you for making it this far. This milestone is a true testament to your dedication and the hard work that you have endured over the past 4.5 years.

The sixteen stations, facilitated on the day, were specifically designed to challenge a student's knowledge of clinical reasoning and medical examinations.

I would like to wish each of you the best of luck for your future endeavors.

In Pursuit of Indivduial Excellence

The July 2022 OSCEs were assessed by distinguished OUM faculty.

Vice Chancellor Prof Hugh Bartholomeusz, Dean A/Prof. Athol Mackay, A/Prof. Ross Diplock, Associate Dean Dr David Mountford, A/Prof. Ali Ghahreman, Dr Tri Slater, Dr Matthew Rickard, and Dr Janet Clarkson (pictured left to right), were all in attendance to ensure that the assessments were above board.

The majority of the assessments were practical in nature, and were performed with the assistance of a group of local actors and actresses. These talented individuals performed admirably, and provided our OUM students with an opportunity to respond to a genuine lifelike scenario.

Remember, there are no tricks! Each assessment is carefully designed to imitate reality.

OSCE Actors

Tips For Your Future OSCE Prepare effectively. Engage in a study group and practice running through patient histories and clinical skills.

Actively participate in the OCSE prep course, facilitated by Dr Mountford.

Successful graduates have attributed their success to his program!

Adopt a doctor's mindset! Approach each station as if the patient has presented to your practice seeking help.

Be systematic in your approach to the stations, and always act in a safe and honest manner.

Make sure you don’t miss easy marks, like introducing yourself, gaining consent, and washing your hands.

Don’t panic! You can go a long way by just building a good rapport with the patients and showing a logical thought process.

Jessica Bell Brisbane, Australia

Samoa OCTOBER 2022

As many students know, twenty years ago, OUM was founded in the South Pacific island nation of Samoa, a country with a serious shortage of physicians; a situation which is faced globally today. The University has added to its local mission: to better meet the health needs of underserved island communities, into an Internationally-accredited medical school, with a global student body and alumni, practicing in many countries.

Talofa lava

In October, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Hugh Bartholomeusz and the Chief Operating Officer, Mrs. Carmel Sang, returned from a successful visit to OUM’s head office in Samoa. The focus of the trip was to celebrate the reopening of the borders and the recommencement of placements for OUM students in Samoa.

The VC took the opportunity to present the OUM Dean for Samoa and Asia Pacific, Toleafoa Dr. Viali Lameko, with his promotion to Clinical Associate Professor. A celebration was held to officially present this title, which was attended by staff, students, alumni, and representatives of the Samoan Ministry of Health. OUM's very first Samoan

(Pictured left to right, OUM Student Uila Laifa-Lima, Vice Chancellor Prof. Bartholomeusz, OUM Students Juliana Chewlit and Helen Taeu-Masipau).

graduate, Dr. Tapa Fidow, was also in attendance.

High on the agenda was a meeting with the Samoa Qualifications Authority (SQA) to continue the accreditation activities and a visit to the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS), where OUM is looking to place students for research activities in the future. Remarkably, OUM students are employed by SROS and were busy working away at the lab bench.

The VC and COO attended church services with OUM Student Affairs & Administrative Assistant, Mrs. Maretta Reti and her family on Sunday and celebrated with the congregation after the service.

The new week started with visits to the Vice Chancellor of the National University of Samoa, where OUM faculty teach in the School of Medicine (MBBS) program.

The VC and the COO met with the Honourable Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa, to discuss OUM’s achievements, plans for the future, and ways to better serve the Samoan health community. A topic high on the agenda was the nomination of a new Chancellor for OUM. So watch this space in the near future for an announcement.

The VC gave a well-received presentation on the history of plastic surgery to the doctors of the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital and met with the incoming head of the Samoan Medical Association.

The first of many official visits back were timed perfectly to enable the VC and the COO to meet the three Samoan students (pictured above) who will travel to Brisbane, Australia, for their OSCE examinations on the 12th of November.

GraDUATE PROFILE Dr. Caroline Francois Esho Graduate Class of 2017, Australia Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I currently live in Tasmania with my husband, 21month-old son, and our dog, Ron- but we are about to move to Sydney. I currently work as a Medical Education Registrar. When I'm not working on my passion project, 'Code You Australia,' I am usually cooking up a storm in the kitchen.

Prior to studying at OUM, what was your educational and work background?

Before studying medicine at OUM, I had completed a Bachelor of Commerce. I have worked as a Drug and Alcohol Educator for Mission Australia and as a phlebotomy educator for a college.

Do you think your prior background aided you in studying a Doctor of Medicine (MD)? What year did you graduate?

Absolutely not! I graduated in 2017.

How did you manage your study, family, and work schedule?

you can implement to pass the first time.

Everything felt so overwhelming and it was such a stressful time in my life.

Is there anything that you would recommend, for future graduates, that would enhance their performance in AMC1?

I have a podcast on my Code You Australia YouTube Channel where myself and Dr Sasha [non OUM International Medical Graduate (IMG)] share our strategy and tips. This includes everything we wish we knew before studying for and attempting the exam.

We suggest using the AMC Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) handbook, committing to three months study (at a maximum), focusing on past questions, and studying topics around those questions. Be sure to join Facebook MCQ groups and read the AMC MCQ specification booklet.

Where did you do your internship and how did you secure this position?

I was fortunate when studying at OUM, as I did not yet have a family and I was able to work parttime. It still was a challenge, but nothing like what the majority of OUM students face. Ask me now how I manage work and a small family and I will say: with incredible difficulty.

I completed my internship in Tasmania. I had an interview and was told that although I did well, they had to make a difficult decision, but they went with someone else. Two weeks later, I got an email stating that the other person had pulled out and the job was mine. I felt like I had won the lotto that day.

I stayed on, completing my PGY1 and PGY2 at the same hospital.

Tell us about your experience with the AMC1 exam?

What did you find the most rewarding during intern/PYG1&2?

I completed a six-week bridging course with AMRC and then studied for two months before taking the exam. I passed the first go, which was a huge relief. In hindsight, it's not an exam you need a bridging course for, and there is a strategy

My personal achievements were one of the most rewarding experiences; managing to persevere, get good feedback, and being able contribute to my hospital as a part of the committee. I was so worried I would drown, but I surprisingly flourished.

Code You Australia

created. It's a free platform for IMGs, and junior doctors, on everything we wish we knew before walking into the Australian healthcare system.

Could you tell us a bit about your experience with the Work Based Assessment (WBA) pathway?

I was fortunate that the hospital I was working in offered WBA. I would definitely recommend it. It is far easier to undertake while working full-time and has a higher pass rate.

What are your plans for the future?

At this stage, I will try to locum in NSW and test out a few hospitals until I decide to take a permanent contract.

Would you recommend that students attend the annual OUM Student Conference?

• Setting up an AMC account and how to prepare for the AMC exams • How to get general registration • Navigating the Australian healthcare system • How to play the game, as an IMG, so you are always two steps ahead • Information on how to get into training programs (presented by doctors who are in the programs) We plan on broadening our horizons and offering more courses and podcasts with special guests to provide valuable information.

How can students access Code You Australia?

We have a Facebook and Instagram "Code You Australia," but all our podcasts go to our YouTube channel. We also have a website.

Yes, because networking is essential.

Australia

What advice would you like to give to those reading this issue?

Code You Australia was an idea I had for a while. I was already helping IMGs at work informally with all my resources, tips and pastoral support, but I thought, why can't this go beyond just the IMGs at my job? I spoke to a colleague, and we teamed up together, and that's how Code you Australia was

Learning medicine and graduating is a small pin on the map to getting your foot in the Australian health care system and surviving as an IMG doctor. Learn how to write round ward notes, referrals, admissions, medical charts, and discharge plans. Learn beyond medicine. Try to get ahead now, so it won't be a future hurdle.

Tell us about initiative?

your

Code

You

www.codeyouaustralia.com

FACULTY INTERVIEW

Dr Ahmed Muhsin Director of Research

What would you like the students to know about yourself?

I share many aspects of a typical OUM student’s life. I am working fulltime and raising a family, while completing research for my PhD thesis. I have a passion for learning new aspects of human health and I want to contribute back to the community by advancing our understanding of pathogenesis, with an ultimate hope for a cure to many human cancers.

What is your educational background and where did you work prior to joining OUM? After completing medical school, and practicing in Iraq and abroad, I moved to the US to learn more about population health and academic medicine. I earned a Master of Public Health at Texas A&M University and a Master of Science in Cancer Biology from the University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. I am currently a PhD candidate at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Centre, studying the immune aspects of tumor microenvironment in colorectal cancer and the roles of epigenetics in immunotherapy. Along with being a practicing physician for 10 years, I have also worked as a Research Associate at the Monoclonal Antibody Core facility at MD Anderson Cancer Centre.

What led you to OUM? I learnt about the concept of “distance learning” during my MPH degree, where some professors were teaching remotely from California and New York. I truly enjoyed the learning experiences and wanted to pass this experience to all enthusiastic medical students around the globe.

As many students feel, OUM provided me an amazing opportunity to help students achieve

dreams of becoming doctors, while learning more skills and enhancing my knowledge in population health and cancer therapeutics. At OUM, the potential for growth and development is unparalleled.

What is your role at OUM? Currently, I am the Director of Research, where I oversee students’ progress in conducting their primary research project. As a part of the research program, I am the administrator of both Journal Club and Research Club. Also, I am the course director for two system-based modules, cardiovascular and renal systems.

What would you like the students to know about Research Club?

Research Club is an excellent source for research ideas that can help in brainstorming plans and strategies to conduct their own studies. By attending Research Club, students learn how to structure their own proposals, know what to expect during their own presentation, and it prepares them to be better presenters.

How does research benefit the students at OUM? Medical students should engage in research as part of their studies and here are some of the reasons: Research experience in medical school is increasingly becoming an important factor when it comes to obtaining internships and training positions post-graduation.

An opportunity to write what you think and do so in a coherent and concise manner.

Boosting their future career via the production of papers in peer-reviewed journals.

Data show that research-active physicians provide better care to patients.

Physicians must be able to critically appraise the literature, knowing what is legitimate and what is not.

How has research made an impact in your life?

Research had made me a better critical thinker, not only to analyze, evaluate, and interpret information, but also to identify and predict potential obstacles and try to plan solutions.

Facing many challenges while conducting my research (funding, technical issues, unpredicted/ non-significant results, time constraints, etc.) made me a more persevering person in both my professional and personal life.

What are you most proud of?

Professionally, carrying both ECFMG and AMC certificates after successfully completing USMLE and AMC exams is the moment that I am most proud of. I am a PhD candidate in the Texas Medical Centre and by the time I complete it, I will have four degrees (medical degree, two masters and a PhD).

In regard to my personal life, raising a great family has been my best achievement. I am so proud of my daughter, who will start her Pre Med program next year.

What advice would you like to give to students reading this issue?

Make the most out of medical school. Do not be too focused on what will be in the exam. Instead, focus on learning how to be a good, knowledgeable doctor.

Be an active learner, understand the subject material and extend the scope of learning outside of specified course work.

Lastly, seek help when needed. Remember, we are here to support you.

Make your journey at OUM an enriching experience.

STUDENT PROFILE

Junaid Minhas Third-Year Medical Student, Australia

Could you please tell us about yourself?

Why do you want to be a doctor?

I live in Northern Sydney, NSW and joined OUM in 2020 as a mature aged student. I am currently a 3rd year medical student who recently commenced clinical rotations. I have completed an emergency medicine rotation in Dubbo, NSW, which I enjoyed immensely and I am currently undertaking my internal medicine rotation at Kareena Private Hospital in Sydney.

As a mature aged student, my world-views have rapidly evolved from the prestige of becoming a doctor and moved towards a more humanitarian approach with a desire to provide medical humanitarian assistance to vulnerable international populations within developing countries.

What is your educational background?

I

previously completed an undergraduate Bachelor of Nursing degree at the University of Technology Sydney and a Masters in Public Health at UNSW. Has your healthcare background aided your studies?

My journey in healthcare began in 2010 when I joined the nursing profession as an ED/ Psychiatric nurse in Australia. I have had the opportunity to work closely with physicians in a wide variety of clinical settings including emergency medicine, general medical/surgery, and psychiatry, therefore gaining a broad understanding of their role, responsibilities, and clinical skills. This exposure reinforced my passion to become a doctor and inspired me to pursue a career in medicine to gain further clinical autonomy, optimising my ability to diagnose and treat patients. Furthermore, I am currently engaged as a Casual Nursing Academic with Australian universities and I volunteer at Street Side Medics in NSW, providing the homeless community with health care services and support.

The skills I have gained throughout these experiences are invaluable in my clinical rotations.

I understand the complexities of belonging to a vulnerable population, as I migrated to Australia as a refugee, and the disadvantages that are created by inequalities. So, I hope to become a humanitarian doctor by actively engaging with international humanitarian organisations, such as Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) International, United Nations, WHO, and other NGOs that provide support to third world countries.

Why did you decide to study medicine at OUM? I chose OUM because of the flexibility and its model for delivering medical education. I think this hybrid program mirrors the future of medicine. As a mature aged student and health care professional, studying at OUM allowed me to retain employment and links to my clinical practice, whilst maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

How does the curriculum at OUM compare to other universities that you have attended?

The preclinical curriculum at OUM is very rigorous and dynamic and there are moments when you may feel overwhelmed with the amount of content.

However, during the clinical phase you quickly realise how important these concepts are in clinical practice. You will be surprised at how you are able to recall the concepts that you studied when confronted in clinical situations.

How many hours do you dedicate to studying each week?

As clinical student, I am engaged in rotations Monday to Friday, up to 40 hours a week, and spend an additional 10-20 hours reviewing lecture content and completing case studies/log books for submission. This can be challenging but also rewarding.

What aspirations do you have for a future specialty?

I am currently in the clinical phase of the curriculum and gaining exposure to different specialities, therefore I am still unsure of which specialty I will pursue in the future. However, I would love the opportunity to explore specialisations such as humanitarian medicine, emergency medicine, rural generalist practitioner, and psychiatry.

Have you had family support while studying with OUM? My family and friends have played a significant role in supporting my medical school journey. It really does take a village to raise a doctor!

You attended the Student Conference this year; did it benefit you and would you encourage students to attend in the coming year?

I would highly recommend all students attend the annual conference. This event affords you the opportunity to network with students, faculty, external bodies, and most importantly you are able to socially interact with your peers.

Can you tell us about your future OUM mental health initiative?

The OUM mental health initiative will be a free and accessible service offered to all students at OUM and we are currently working on these goals which include:

Determining the unique, and diverse, needs of the students at OUM Establishing a Peer Support Program Creating a referral system Providing students with access to helpful resources and services they can engage with in their specific countries Mental health and wellbeing presentations on a variety of topics Zoom/Social meetings Being inclusive of LGBTQI, and other minorities, within OUM Humanitarianism and civic engagement related projects Why are you passionate about student mental health and wellbeing?

I feel that the field of medicine still perpetuates a stigma attached to seeking support for mental health, despite concerted efforts by medical bodies to change this view. Therefore, I believe it is important for us to normalise the commonality of mental health issues amongst medical students.

We are not immune to experiencing mental illness.

As a mental health professional, I found it extremely rewarding to holistically engage with mental health consumers and build a therapeutic relationship with clients to promote their mental health and wellbeing.

I have more than six years of experience optimising healthcare outcomes for clients in the private and public mental health settings, by utilising evidencebased care.

What advice would you give to those reading this issue?

It was very important to have a work life balance and seek continuous support from social and professional networks.

Prioitise your mental Health.

SPECIALTY PROFILE

Prof. Paddy Dewan Paediatric Urologist & Surgeon , Australia

What led to you choose a career in Paediatric Urology/General Surgery?

I used to run a children’s holiday camp, which enabled me to recognise that I wanted to work with children. I decided upon Paediatric Urology because it had (and has) many unanswered questions, and surgery is both the artful application of science and the scientific application of art.

Tell us about your life before medicine?

I was born in regional Victoria to a family that ran a bicycle business. After my father died of cancer when I was eight, my mother started a handcraft business, which resulted in me learning to sew!

My other childhood “surgical” training came from spending time with a neighbourhood family who ran a farm. It was there that I learnt about anatomy and the necessity for inventive solutions.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Dancing as often as I can, often around the house with my wife, writing poetry, and running a small farm; on which we have both cattle and a small vineyard.

What do you love most about your job?

I love seeing the smile on children's faces when you have made them feel better, and being on the receiving end of the displays of affection when you have helped a family cope with unconquerable disease.

Tell us something we don’t know about you?

I spent a year of my medical course completing research toward a BMedSc in Psychiatry.

How did you find out about OUM? I was approached by the daughter of a referring GP, and I have had OUM students regularly since.

You could work with any medical school in Melbourne, why OUM? OUM has a high standard of students and I connect with the universities ethos.

How do you feel about the direction that OUM is heading?

There have been major changes that are good for the University, the students and for the quality of medical practice in the near future; further improvements will cement the gains.

As a clinical placement facilitator, what are you hoping to achieve at OUM? It is expected that we mentor, and facilitate, students to care for their patients of the future, while having an exciting student experience, free of concerns about finding rotations in which to hone their skills.

What are your aspirations for OUM in the future?

Through research and commitment, we change the paradigm of medicine from one that is far too “product” driven, to one that is led by common sense.

What piece of advice would you give to the students reading this interview?

Don’t just treat your patients, care for them.

Aspire to be the best doctor that you have ever met.

KIND CUTS FOR KIDS Kind Cuts for Kids is an Australian-based organisation that exists to provide specialist medical care for children in developing countries around the world.

Their goal is to improve the lives of children in developing countries by conducting a range of surgical procedures that are not readily available in that country, while educating local healthcare professionals. This organisation's aim is to provide self-sufficiency in these procedures for each country that is visited. Many children in developing countries have little access to healthcare, or even clean water. Kind Cuts for Kids goal is to ensure low cost, high-quality care to as many as possible, This is achieved through training and educating local healthcare professionals to maximise the best use of limited resources.

Is it true that an OUM student accompanied you on your most recent visit to Kosovo?

Yes, Natalie Burkhardt accompanied Kind Cuts for Kids for a two week visit to Kosovo, where we attended to 36 patients. Trips, such as this, present an unparalleled opportunity for OUM students to assist in the remediation of poor patient outcomes, that have arisen due to substandard care.

Dr Dewan, you have just returned from a humanitarian trip to Kosovo, could you tell us how your Kind Cuts For Kids initiative came about?

Kind Cuts for Kids (KCFK) came about by chance.

While working in Ireland, as a senior trainee in Paediatric Surgery, I was invited to travel to Russia to assist with the management of people who were burnt in a train explosion. Working in this challenging environment was instantly addictive and it left me contemplating how I could continue to provide assistance.

While connecting with various organisations, I recognised the need to focus on sustainable supportive care for children in developing countries. This meant that these organisations should have been aiming to make their assistance redundant, by training of the local teams.

Thus, Kind Cuts For Kids came to be. Kind Cuts for Kids has outreach in 22 different countries, many of which no longer require support.

By getting involved, you can help change the lives of children in need around the world. Supporters are the lifeblood of Kind Cuts for Kids. Without generosity and goodwill, the organisation cannot improve the lives of so many children.

So, there are many ways to get involved including membership, donations, fundraising, sponsorship, and event attendance.

Please visit https://www.kindcutsforkids.net/

bereavement. Their loved ones, as well as the services and support that surround them, make each fleeting moment matter.

Ambulance Wish Queensland is a charity program of Palliative Care Queensland.

Palliative Care Queensland (PCQ) is an independent not-for-profit peak body with charitable status representing the people who care for Queenslanders living with life limiting conditions.

AWQld's mission is to provide quality care for those at the end of their life because they are of the belief that the way we care for our dying is a significant indicator of our society’s values.

The Ambulance Wish Queensland program is supported by partners, sponsorships, and the generosity of public donations.

This year, we are proud to announce that, OUM has graciously engaged with Ambulance Wish Queensland as a Bronze Sponsor of the 4 November AWQ Fundraising Gala Dinner!

Commitments such as this allow AWQld to continue providing final wishes for recipients, of all age, with life limiting conditions.

The Ambulance Wish Queensland's Program recognises that we all have a role to play in supporting each other in times of loss, ageing, dying, and grief; and this role is essential to ensure a positive impact within the community.

This year's fundraising gala will be attended

by Associate Professor Athol Mackay, OUM Dean for Australia and New Zealand; Mrs. Suzanne Robertson, Finance Manager/CFO; and Jessica Bell, a second-year student at OUM and an AWQld volunteer.

AWQ's Volunteer Village is made up of kind and compassionate people of all ages, cultures, skill levels, and backgrounds. But, they all share a passion for helping individuals experiencing dying, death, and

If you would like more information about the AWQld program or if you would like to support this charity, please visit; https://ambulancewishqld.org.au

Quote

OF THE ISSUE

Wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love of humanity.

-Hippocrates

DATE

26/07/2022

A Typical Day as a Parent, Provider & 2nd Year Medical Student

PRODUCTIVITY PLANNER WAKE TIME

TODAY'S MANTRA

SCHEDULE

TOP PRIORITIES

6am

8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Drop kids to day care Study Lecture Academic advisor meeting Work Pick kids up from day care Dinner and bath time Study group Mini case presentation

Work, work, work, work, work Finish mini case notes Study for the quiz Return emails

TO-DO LIST

Create Anki Flash cards Select a journal article Research prospectus Cook Dinner

Study/ Work

MEMO

DAILY REFLECTION

Find more hours in the day

Music

THE BENEFITS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC

Quaver, semiquaver, minim.

I think for most of us, music holds a special place in our lives. It is an integral part of human culture, and has excited the masses since recording began. Our obsession, with a collection of vibrations, will continue to flourish for generations to come.

A couple of months ago, I felt an urge to branch out. I work in a medical field, and I study the field of medicine; so, I needed an outlet. I have always listened to classical music, and I played the trombone when I attended high school.

Over the years I have developed a real love for the cello; so, I decided to learn how to play it.

Music has so many benefits, but the real benefits are felt by those who play. 1,2,3 The brain is not a static organ, it changes dynamically throughout our lifespan.

During development, the brain changes variably with experiences, 1 and these changes can be characterised both functionally and structurally.

Structural changes include alterations in the volume of gray, and white, matter regions of the brain. 1

Functional changes include alterations in the propensity for regional activation 1 and connectivity.

by motor, sensory and multimodal brain regions, which affect important sound relay stations in the brainstem and 3 thalamus.

Musical training requires complex information processing; this includes somatosensory and auditory processing, motor control, working memory, attention, and higher-order integrative 1 function and executive function.

Active musical activities can remediate impaired neural processes and neural connections, by engaging and linking brain regions with each other. 1,2,3 So, what is there to lose?

Anatomical differences in the brain have been reported between musicians and 2 non-musicians. Findings indicate that musicians have larger grey matter volumes within the right inferior gyrus, left middle gyrus and bilateral lingual gyrus. 2 Highlighting that many brain regions can be altered with musical training.

I have been learning to play the cello for a few months now and, although I have not mastered my vibrato, I enjoy the process of making music. For me, playing music has been cathartic and an enjoyable escape.

This hobby challenges a different part of my brain, but it is one that will compliment my future in medicine.

Functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) has also been use to investigate the influence of music on encoding and 3 the ability to retrieve verbal information.

Decreased activation of brain regions indicates that music positively influences a participants ability to both encode and retrieve episodic verbal information, through a less-demanding form of 3 modulation. This shows that active musical activities lead to a strong coupled perception and actions mediated

Phillip Prosia Melbourne, Australia

What is your unique hobby?

The Student Magazine Team would like to hear about it!

1

Herholz SC, Zatorre RJ. Musical training as a framework for brain plasticity: behavior, function, and structure. Neuron. 2012;(3):486–502. doi: 10.1016/j.neuron.2012.10.011.

2

Satoh M, Evers S, Furuya S, Ono K. Music in the Brain: From Listening to Playing.

Behavioral Neurology. 2015;(92):72-74. Doi: 10.1155/2015/927274.

3

Schlaug G. Musicians and music making as a model for the study of brain plasticity. Prog Brain Res. 2015;(217):37-55. Doi: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2014.11.020.

Happy

HALLOWEEN

BOO! Did I scare you?

All Hallows’ Eve originates from the festival of Samhain, or Summer’s End. This festival marked the end of summer and the harvest season, and the beginning of the darker half of the year. Halloween is now a modern cultural event, which is celebrated on the 31st of October.

Popular Halloween activities include trickor-treating, attending Halloween costume parties, visiting haunted house attractions, carving pumpkins into jack-o'-lanterns, and watching horror movies or Halloweenthemed films. Some people practice the Christian religious observances of All Hallows' Eve and attend church services and lighting candles on the graves of the those they have lost.

Halloween costumes were traditionally modelled after figures such as ghosts, vampires, skeletons, wicked witches, and devils. Over time, the costume selection has extended to include popular ... fictional characters, celebrities, and and generic representations such as princesses and superheroes.

There are several games traditionally associated with Halloween. One of the most common games is 'bobbing for apples', in which apples float in a tub of water and the participants must use only their teeth to remove the apples from the water.

Halloween is one of many “memento mori” traditions that is intended to make death just a little bit more bearable and provide an age-appropriate indication to children about the inevitable fact that life comes to an end. An occasion like this provides emotional benefits and teachable moments.

There are a lot of benefits in taking part in inclusive celebrations! Underneath the face paint, fake blood, and cobwebs, Halloween is a holiday that encourages community engagement like no other celebration or event.

Crystal Jesenick Southern Illinois, USA

What did you do for Halloween?

Write to the Student Magazine. and send THEM your photos, to be featured in the next issue!

PLEASE REMEMBER TO

Wash your hands and Sanitise

PREVENT THE SPREAD With the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants, it is a timely reminder to thoroughly wash and sanitise your hands.

Hand washing is one of the most effective things that you can do to protect yourself and help prevent further spread.

If you are unable to wash your hands with soap and water, utilise hand sanitiser.

It is important to remember that while alcohol-based hand sanitisers are effective against some viruses (like corona virus), they are not effective against gastroenteritis. Also keep in mind, that hand sanitiser is only effective when your hands are not visibly soiled.

We can all do our part to stop the spread.

HOW TO WASH YOUR HANDS 1

Wet hands with water and apply soap to cover all hand surfaces

4

Rub fingertips and finger nails with opposite palm

2

Rub hands palm to palm

3

Interlace fingers and rub right palm over the dorsum of the left hand and vice versa

5

Do a rotational rubbing of the left thumb clasped in the right palm and vice versa

6

After at least 30-40 seconds of washing, rinse hands with water and dry thoroughly

OUM Student Magazine Special Thanks We would like to thank A/Prof Nicolette McGuire, Rebecca Morris, and the OUM Communication Team for their continued support.

If you would like to join the Student Magazine Team we are always looking for editors, content creators and writers.

If you would like to submit an article or creative piece for publishing; please send an email to studentmagazine@oum.edu.ws

Issue: October 2022 ISSN 2653-6706