Celebrating Queensland Women’s Week with Dr Tasha

As Queensland Women’s Week comes to a close, we’d like to introduce you to Dr Tasha Worthington, one of our 2023 GP Registrars!

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m a mum of two with Dharug Country heritage. I came into medicine later in life after working all over Australia as an optometrist. I loved spending time in many small rural towns, which made me passionate about community health.

Do you have an area of specialty? 

I have a special interest in family health, mental health and aged care.

What are you looking forward to the most in your new role?

I am a strong advocate for a holistic approach to wellbeing. I believe that wellness incorporates mind, body and connection to community. I’m excited to have the opportunity to practise medicine holistically within the ATSICHS team and proudly serve the Logan community. 

Why did you choose to work in a community-controlled health organisation like ATSICHS Brisbane?

It’s so important that organisations like ATSICHS are community-led. This ensures that the best resources we have can go to the places in need. Community knows what’s best for community, so it makes me proud to be part of an organisation that puts patients first. 

What does it mean to you personally to work with community?

I have a deep respect for mob and the paths that have been travelled. I’m humbled by the strength, resilience and determination of community. I know that I will learn a lot from community during my time with ATSICHS. It is important to me that my kids grow up having good role models and I believe working with community will help me bring some of that strength and resilience to them. 

What advice would you give other young Indigenous people considering a career in medicine?

Working in health care is an amazing way to give back to your community and have the opportunity to connect, work with and advocate for community members. The great part about general practice in particular, is that you get to walk alongside patients and their families, from birth to passing, through good times and bad. It is a huge privilege to serve community in this way, and medicine is a career that makes you feel humbled and proud.

Can you tell us about your previous work experience?

Before medical school, I was an optometrist for 10 years. I worked all over Queensland and South Australia, mostly in regional towns. In the later years, I mainly worked in nursing homes which I really enjoyed. 

Do you have a message to mob about their health?

Health checks are an easy way to stay healthy for yourself, your family and community. They are all about making sure we find sickness early or prevent it from happening in the first place. And if a person already has a health problem, a health check can ensure the problem is managed in the best way with the help of our nurses, doctors, allied health and specialists. Health checks are a great way to make mob stronger together.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy travelling, spending time with my family, swimming and being part of my book club with friends I have known for 30 years.