My career journey with MedHealth

I loved the role of an Occupational Therapist and the difference they can make to an individual. I knew some friends who were OTs, and offered to perform some volunteer work, which all helped me decide on my future career path.  So, after graduating from university in 1995, I found work as an Occupational Therapist with what is now called WorkFocus Australia in Perth.

I am not the type of OT who can happily work behind hospital walls all day, so I quickly settled into my new role in the local community, helping people who were injured to get back to good health and back to work as soon as possible. I also had a lot of workers compensation rehab with mining and farming families, and I enjoyed getting to meet a lot of fascinating people from all walks of life.

My role eventually expanded to a Rehabilitation Consultant due to the growth of the business, and I was soon providing information, advice, strategies and developing training programs for a range of industries and companies in metropolitan and regional areas.

A few years later and with a new family on the way, I needed to have more work flexibility with my role. I had established trust with my employer and the MedHealth group over a long period of time and I was lucky enough to find the next step in my career within MedHealth, assisting the JobAccess team in a professional advisor role.

JobAccess is the national hub for disability employment, and WorkFocus Australia administer JobAccess on behalf of the Australian Government. I performed various other roles during my time at JobAccess, and I eventually became Acting Manager.

After a 12-month break from work. I was able to return to JobAccess in my professional advisor role for 3 days a week, which suited my circumstances at home and allowed me to spend some time with my growing family.

Being a part of the MedHealth group and gaining experience in different businesses and roles has allowed me to meet and network with a lot of good people. As a result, opportunities arise, and my career has continually evolved to be always challenging and exciting.

In 2020, a colleague who knew my work capabilities and expertise recommended me for a role at Ability Action Australia. It was closer to home and a new challenge in a growing sector that I was ready to take on. I am now the Senior Occupational Therapist, helping people with a disability to improve the quality of their life.

Changing career paths

Because I know the industry and the work of an OT, I have always been comfortable in changing roles. But if you don’t know something, it’s important to speak up and ask for help. The challenge is to understand the complexities of each business. They have their own focus, and you need to know where you fit as a professional in your role. I always believe in getting to know all the people around you, whether they are the manager or the cleaner, they are all part of the team.

My motivation

I like helping people in whatever way I can. It’s a real struggle to get out of bed if you don’t enjoy what you do each day. I believe very strongly that despite illness, injury, or disability, with our help, people can live their life to the full.

Favourite career highlight

I don’t have just one highlight. Speaking and engaging with people from all different walks of life has been so enjoyable throughout my working life. I like learning and I like change and I have been lucky to remain part of the MedHealth group for such a long period of time.