Committee of Doctors in Training - new Deputy Co-Chairs

Dr Natasha Abeysekera 

Dr Natasha Abeysekera is a Dermatology unaccredited registrar at Sunshine Coast University Hospital and a Master of Philosophy candidate at the University of Queensland. She holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery and a Master of Public Health. Natasha has received multiple awards for her research and advocacy, including the AMA’s 2023 National Doctor in Training of the Year. She has held leadership roles in several medical associations, spoken at national and international events and her current research focuses on balancing the risks and benefits of sun exposure.

"What I’d like to achieve:

1. Addressing the Principal House Officer (PHO) crisis in Queensland - the unregulated expansion of PHOs has created an unsustainable system where highly capable junior doctors remain stuck in limbo — overworked, undervalued and struggling to secure specialist training positions. This model is failing both trainees and the broader health system. 
2. Expanding virtual education and training for rural and remote doctors in training - junior doctors in rural and remote settings often face significant barriers to accessing training and career advancement. 
3. Stronger advocacy for safer working conditions - junior doctors should never feel unsafe in their workplaces - whether due to excessive fatigue, toxic workplace culture, or fear of speaking up."  

Dr Nikhil Dwivedi 

Dr Nikhil Dwivedi a Dermatology Senior House Officer at the Princess Alexandra Hospital and a Master of Philosophy candidate at the University of Queensland. He holds a Doctor of Medicine, a Master of Medicine (Clinical Epidemiology) and is admitted as a solicitor in New South Wales. Nikhil has a strong passion for advocacy and medical education, and is serving as this year's Chair of Queensland Health’s Junior Medical Officer Forum Queensland (JMOFQ).
 
"As Deputy Chair of the AMA Queensland Committee of Doctors in Training, I aim to advocate for the wellbeing, education and working conditions of junior doctors across Queensland. I hope to strengthen engagement between trainees and AMA Queensland, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed at all levels. I am particularly passionate about improving communication and transparency around rotation allocations, ensuring doctors receive fair and timely information about their placements. My focus will be on promoting sustainable working conditions, supporting medical education initiatives, and fostering a culture that prioritises both professional development and personal wellbeing."