Supervisor Testimonial: Dr Nadine Perlen
Dr Nadine Perlen
GP Supervisor, Lockridge General Practice
I have been involved in GP training at several levels over the years. I had great role models as trainers when I was doing my training and always hoped to be able to contribute back to the profession in that way. When I came to Perth in 1995 I was looking for a practice that was involved in teaching and was fortunate to be directed to Lockridge General Practice. Lockridge had been involved in teaching since the late 70’s so there was a lot of teaching experience to draw on. I have been a GP supervisor in the practice for about 5 years and I share the role with another GP in the practice.
Being a supervisor is rewarding and challenging. I enjoy sharing my knowledge, watching registrars grow and develop professionally and personally and seeing the changes over the time they are with us – especially the Basic registrars. I am constantly having to reflect on how and why I do what I do. Whilst being a supervisor can be difficult and stressful at times, there are many rewards for the supervisor and practice as a whole. Registrars have much to contribute and teach us and some have chosen to stay at our practice or return to us after they have completed their training.
There are many opportunities for GP supervisors to get involved in other aspects of the GP training program with WAGPET. Apart from supervising in my practice I do External Clinical Teaching (ECT) visits where I visit other registrars in their practices and provide feedback and I am involved in the regional educational program as a Training Advisor on the Perth and Outer Metropolitan Regional Advisory Committee. I am also an examiner for the RACGP fellowship exam and it is often through this that I see the immense benefits that our trainees reap through participation in the GP training program.
