Inspired by her uncle working in healthcare in poorer communities in India, Hinal Patel is starting her internship with Monash Health this month.
Careerwise growing up, Hinal was open to anything, but after observing her uncle providing healthcare during her visits to India, she was inspired to enter the field herself.
“I saw the impact he made on patients – they were very comfortable with him.”
Studying Medicine at Deakin in Geelong and completing her placements in Ballarat, Hinal has returned to Melbourne, keen to see where her internship takes her.
While it’s only early days at Monash Health, Hinal is struck by the level of support she has received.
“The support from Monash Health has been amazing, even before the commencement of the internship.
“The Monash Educational Officers are only a text away and have really helped with the transition.”
Understandably, even with the level of support in place, the first week can be daunting.
“I’m a bit nervous right now. Doing my placements in Ballarat, everything was on paper, but now it’s all online. That will take some getting used to.”
Hinal will start her internship in General Surgery at Monash Medical Centre and is looking forward to all the rotations that will follow.
“I’m most looking forward to the entirety of the year – the process of growing my knowledge over that time. They say it grows exponentially.”
While she is considering Emergency, Hinal has no specialty firm in her mind, and will use the internship to learn all she can and get a feel for things.
“I don’t know what the future holds for me, but I want to broaden my expertise by taking every opportunity I can get.
“I would also like to continue research on the side.”
Hinal will be the first qualified doctor in her family. “My parents are very proud!”
Hinal is just one of 125 Medical Interns who started with Monash Health this month. We wish her all the best for her internship and beyond.