Seeking Support During Your Own Personal or Professional Health Crises

How do doctors look after their own health while caring for their patients? In this episode of RG Life Hacks, Dr Emily Moody speaks with Dr Roger Sexton, rural GP and Medical Director of Doctors’ Health SA, about the importance of seeking support during personal or professional health crises.

With over 35 years of experience in rural practice and doctors’ health advocacy, Dr Sexton explores the unique barriers doctors face when accessing care, including stigma, confidentiality concerns, and professional expectations. He also reflects on the cultural shifts that are changing how the profession understands and supports doctors’ well-being.

The conversation highlights the critical link between doctors' health and patient safety, the evolving support systems available to rural clinicians, and the importance of showing up to work ‘in good shape’.

A must-listen for registrars and early-career Rural Generalists navigating life and work in remote settings, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and practical strategies for staying healthy and thriving in practice.

Wellbeing Support Services

• Doctors' Health SA: (08) 8366 0250
• Doctors' Health NSW: (02) 9437 6552
• Doctors' Health QLD: (07) 3833 4352
• Doctors' Health NT: 08 8366 0250 (via SA service)
• Doctors' Health Advisory Service WA (DHASWA): (08) 9321 3098
• Victorian Doctors Health Program (VDHP): 1300 330 543
• Drs4Drs: 1300 374 377 (1300 DR4 DRS)
• Bush Support Line (CRANAplus): 1800 805 391

For more information and additional resources, visit ACRRM Wellbeing Support: https://www.acrrm.org.au/support/wellbeing/well-being-support

Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are those of the speaker and do not necessarily reflect those of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine. The material presented is for general information purposes only.