Dr Michael Wright on a Career in Medicine, Policy, and Research

Welcome to a new season of Creative Careers in Medicine (CCIM) podcast! In this episode, Dr Dana Phang interviews Dr Michael Wright, a second-generation General Practitioner (GP) and health economist. He shares insights from his diverse career, which includes research at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, a PhD from the University of Technology Sydney, and his current role as Chief Medical Officer at Avant Mutual.

Dr Wright describes how his upbringing in a family with a home-based GP surgery inspired him to pursue a career in general practice. Sharing his journey through various medical disciplines during his training, revealing how his experiences in dermatology and psychiatry ultimately reinforced his commitment to general practice. His decade-long practice alongside his father and the evolution of their solo practice into a medical centre.

They also discussed Dr Wright's extensive involvement with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. As Deputy Chair of the NSW/ACT Faculty Council and a member of the Expert Committee for Funding Health System Reform, Dr Wright provides insight into how he collaborates with other GPs to influence policy and improve funding models to support sustainable general practice.

In his role as Chief Medical Officer at Avant Mutual, Dr Wright is committed to advocating for doctors and enhancing professional support. He leads the Advocacy, Education and Research division, working to develop resources that help physicians navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.

Despite his numerous roles, Dr Wright maintains a regular clinical workload, emphasising the importance of staying connected to patient care. He discusses how this ongoing clinical engagement keeps him relevant and informed, aiding his research and policy advocacy efforts.

Dr Wright had thought-provoking reflections on healthcare innovation and the challenges of increasing interest in general practice among medical students. He underscores the need for structural support, appropriate funding, and innovative models of care to attract new generations to the profession.

The episode offers a comprehensive look at a career that spans direct patient care, academic research, health policy advocacy, and leadership within a major medical organisation. Dr Wright’s passion for general practice and his multifaceted career path provide inspiration and valuable lessons for clinicians exploring diverse career opportunities.

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The CCIM Podcast is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, offering the latest in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, and more. Discover the network at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.