A strong voice for junior doctors
Recently appointed Chair of the AMA SA Doctors in Training Committee, Dr Elise Witter, brings a passion for doctor wellbeing and advocacy to South Australia. From tackling bullying and harassment to improving access to events and resources, the committee is committed to driving meaningful change.
I have been delighted to take up the position of Chair of the AMA SA Doctors in Training Committee (DiT Committee) after recently relocating to Adelaide from Queensland, where I held an equivalent position. I am a stage 3 psychiatry trainee currently practicing at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and have a particular passion for DiT wellbeing. Despite the differences between states (especially in the weather!), there are many similar issues facing DiTs in South Australia. These have been highlighted by the recent Hospital Health Check, which identified disappointingly high rates of bullying, harassment and discrimination continuing to impact doctors in training. Bullying and harassment had adverse impacts on doctor wellbeing as well as clinical outcomes and patient safety. I look forward to continuing the work of outgoing DiT Committee members in identifying and advocating for safe reporting pathways and other strategies to tackle bullying and harassment.
Advocating for access to adequate workspaces – along with essential resources such as computers – remains a key priority for the DiT Committee in 2025. We’re focused on member engagement by delivering meaningful benefits and targeted events for DiTs and medical students. We’re also looking to expand collaboration with other organisations and forums representing doctors in training – helping to maximise our collective impact.
Earlier this year in May, I represented DiTs at the AMA SA Access to Care Round Table. This was an excellent opportunity to discuss issues around access to care with a number of stakeholders including the Health Minister and Federal AMA President. This has led to a series of recommendations, including enhancing the inter-operability of communication and patient medical record systems, enhancing access to outpatient clinical care and greater utilisation of technology to overcome barriers in access to care. Concerns of DiTs were highlighted to over thirty leaders from various sectors and organisations, contributing significantly to the outcome. The DiT Committee looks forward to working with other AMA SA members and SA Health to implement these recommendations and enhance access to care.
Finally, there are a number of events doctors in training have enjoyed this year. Former Chair Dr Hayden Cain was honoured with the Rising Star award at the AMA SA Gala. Our speed networking events have been incredibly popular, with a further event planned for the end of July. We are continuing to explore possible future events to deliver maximum benefits to DiTs. Finally, we are looking forward to showing off Adelaide to our national colleagues at the upcoming AMA National Convention from 1-3 August.
The DiT Committee is always eager to hear from our members – whether it’s ideas to improve your experience, challenges you’re facing, or interest in getting involved with the committee and our events. We welcome your input and encourage you to reach out anytime. Feel free to reach out any time and get in touch!
