GP AUSTRALIA

DR NICOLE LEOTTA

Nicole Leotta is currently in the third year of the AGPT program with WentWest. She completed her medical degree in 2004, specialising in women’s health, and worked for three years in obstetrics before deciding to pursue General Practice as a specialty.

Nicole chose a career in medicine after spending considerable time in hospital with her best friend who had leukemia growing up. “The doctors always appeared very knowledgeable and calm, so I thought this would be a good person to become and a worthwhile career path”, she said.
When asked why she chose General Practice as a specialty, Nicole said that she liked dealing with the whole person and seeing how their health is integrated into and impacts their entire life. “It’s also very rewarding to follow and support a family through both the good and bad times”, she added.

Nicole selected the WentWest training program because of its central location and the thorough grounding it provides in all aspects of General Practice. “The WentWest region is one of the most culturally and socially diverse in Australia, where Registrars can gain extensive experience caring for patients of all ages and backgrounds with a broad range of medical conditions.”

“WentWest also provides Division of General Practice services to more than 200 Practices across several regions of western Sydney. This means that Registrars who study and work in the area are supported by WentWest throughout their professional life”, she added.

Nicole is also currently WentWest’s Registrar Liaison Officer/Registrar Medical Educator. The role involves representing Registrars’ interests as well as being involved in the development and teaching of Registrar workshops. “One of the best aspects of the role is feeling that I can make a difference for the Registrars regarding their concerns and issues in relation to their training”, she said.
When it comes to General Practice, Nicole finds one of the most enjoyable aspects is being considered as a trusted adviser to her patients in all areas of their lives. “Knowing that they come back to see me because I have helped them, even if it’s in just a small way, is very gratifying”, she said.

Nicole is married with two young children. When asked how she balances work and study with family life, she said, “It’s not easy but with General Practice you have more flexibility to incorporate things that you love into your work”.

Nicole’s advice to those considering a career in General Practice is: “Go for it – it’s an immensely worthwhile and rewarding specialty that offers variety, flexibility and opportunity.

Case study contributed by WentWest Limited