There are many defining moments that stay with a junior doctor, and for Oncology’s Dr Laura Tam it was her time with her oncology colleagues in particular whom she now refers to as ‘some of her most memorable mentors.’
“I remember rounding with my consultants at the time, who are now my colleagues, and being in awe of them. To me, they provided such compassionate care and taught me that in the face of incurable disease, there’s value to ensuring that patients have a good death. That term inspired me and I chose Oncology with the aim of wanting to become them,” she said.
That courage to provide compassionate care saw her finish training in 2020 before moving down to Melbourne to further explore her interests in neuro-oncology, hepatobiliary cancers and Phase 1 clinical trials.
“I am very passionate about Phase 1 clinical trials – to be able to offer hope for patients with no viable standard of care options left.”
“I was fortunate enough to be hired back at PAH as a Medical Oncologist in the beginning of 2023, and I do two days at the Redlands Satellite Health Centre.
“Our team there has been able to create our own service and deliver oncological care to patients – one that is accessible and close to home. This has become a passion of mine.”
As Dr Tam’s remarkable career progressed, her source of inspiration widened to include not only her colleagues, but her patients too.
“Looking after them is a real privilege,” she said.
“There is some light when you see a patient have that epiphany of what’s important in life.
“Often they will say they’ve spent their whole lives working, then they get this life-changing diagnosis they realise what actually matters is spending time with family and making memories.
“Around five years ago I was caring for a patient with a very rare cancer and she was the epitome of grace under pressure. When you’re put in that situation of being faced with your mortality but still put everyone else first – that’s really inspiring to witness.”
Dr Tam is now helping guide the next generation of trainees, and without realising it, is becoming the kind-hearted, approachable, and respectful mentor she once looked up to.
“I’m in a unique position where I’m still young enough to remember what it’s like to be a trainee so I like to put myself out there as someone they can come to if they’re having a bad day and need a chat.
“I think it’s important to invest in training and support the next generation of doctors and medical students coming through.”
That effort hasn’t gone unnoticed, with Dr Tam recently being presented with the PA Hospital QSuper Staff Award for February.
“I’m quite flattered by the recognition but I don’t think I’m doing anything special,” she said.
“At the end of the day it’s all about our patients, and if they feel like they’re receiving high-quality care with a copious amount of compassion, then I’m doing my job.”