Rural doctors thanked for outstanding contribution

Five South West doctors were among a group of 21 rural practitioners from across the State recognised for their dedication and long service to the community at an awards ceremony at the weekend.

Three doctors from Doctor Foster and Associates – Dr Anne de Boer, Dr John Gliddon and Dr Michael Hall – were recognised for more than 30 years service each at the Rural Health Doctors’ Service Awards.

Two other doctors – Dr Zaki Dorkham from Doctor Foster and Associates and Dr Ian Johnston from Bunbury Day Surgery – were awarded for more than two decades of dedication.

Rural Health West chief executive Belinda Bailey said the award recipients were the unsung heroes of the health community.

“These are the doctors who have ensured their communities continue to have access to high quality primary health care,’’ Ms Bailey said.

“For many, it was the first time they have been publicly acknowledged for the great job they are doing.

“For the doctors, it is valuable for them to know they are appreciated – for many, they see it as doing their job.’’

She said Rural Health West received a large number of nominations from communities and colleagues who wanted to highlight the work of health practitioners.

“It is difficult to choose between them,” she said.

A further five awards were given out to doctors for their extraordinary service or action.

The awards were presented by WA Governor Malcolm McCusker at a ceremony at the Pan Pacific Hotel in Perth last Saturday.