Meet the women making a difference in medicine
March 9
The efforts of Tasmanian women ‘Making a Difference in Medicine’ were highlighted at the Clifford Craig Foundation’s International Women’s Day luncheon on Wednesday.
More than 250 guests “Embraced Equity” as part of this year’s IWD theme, hearing from guest speakers Dr Lauren Giles and Dr Natasha Vavrek.
A neurologist at the Launceston General Hospital, Dr Giles is providing new hope to patients living with Motor Neurone Disease and Multiple Sclerosis, with two ground-breaking medical research trials being offered in Northern Tasmania.
She reflected on her journey into medicine, admitting it wasn’t always an easy path into medicine.
“There are certain barriers that many women come across that may prevent them from pursuing a career in STEM [science, technology, engineering and mathematics] or may interrupt their career,” she said.
"There are many strengths that women bring to the industry, so having gender diversity in those fields is really worthwhile."
Dr Vavrek is the founder and Director of The Bubble Tasmania – a specialist women’s health clinic where women’s sexual and reproductive needs can be met in a safe and relaxed environment.
She said it was the challenges she faced - particularly when she decided to start a family - that first led her to launch The Bubble.
“There were expectations that I would take limited maternity leave and expectations I would return to work almost immediately to attend meetings before my caesarean scar had even healed,” she said.
"Unfortunately, my experiences aren't unique. I know many women struggle with the same challenges, so The Bubble aims to change this and how we provide our services to other women in the community."
Both doctors are proud advocates of their professions and with their work are helping to change the narrative through greater empowerment for women.
Now in its 15th year, the Clifford Craig Foundation’s IWD luncheon celebrates the achievements of women in our community and around the world, while raising funds in support of the Launceston General Hospital.
“As the region’s largest employer, about 2000 people work at the Launceston General Hospital. Of this workforce, more than 75% are women,” Clifford Craig Foundation CEO Peter Milne said.
“Today we have heard from some inspiring examples, as we celebrate their achievements and reflect on the progress that is still needed for gender equity.
“The Tasmanian community should be very proud of the frontline health staff and clinicians who are providing excellent care to their patients every day.”
The Clifford Craig Foundation is the health promotion charity supporting the Launceston General Hospital -– the acute referral hospital for Tasmania’s North and North-West.
Established in 1992, the purpose of the Foundation is to improve the health of the community through the provision of funding for innovative medical research, education, medical equipment and patient facilities within the hospital.
Events like this would not be possible without support. Thank you again to our generous gold sponsors Bladerunner at the Charles and Yeltuor. Thanks also to our event supporters VJAM, Country Club Tasmania, Sara Redman and Lily at West Tamar Flowers.
