The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is delighted to announce that Dr Amanda Bethell, a GP from Port Augusta, South Australia, has been awarded the 2017 RACGP General Practitioner of the Year Award.
The award recognises a GP who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the general practice profession, excellence in primary healthcare provision, and significant involvement in training and continuing professional development.
RACGP President Dr Bastian Seidel presented the award at the RACGP’s annual conference – GP17 – in Sydney. Dr Seidel said Dr Bethell is a most worthy recipient of the award.
“Dr Bethell has devoted her career to enhancing the lives of her patients and their family members,” Dr Seidel said.
“She has been an outstanding advocate for rural general practice and a leading light in the delivery of primary healthcare to the Port Augusta community.”
Dr Seidel said Dr Bethell has a deep understanding of the needs of her patients at individual and community levels.
“Dr Bethell believes in empowering her patients to make informed choices and works closely alongside marginalised and disadvantaged groups to ensure that their voices are hear and that they have access to equitable services,” Dr Seidel said.
“She is always open to listening to others and forms her opinions based on best available information, a wealth of professional experience and the considered opinions of those she works alongside.
“Dr Bethell demonstrates exemplary levels of integrity and professionalism and fulfils her role admirably as the trusted custodian of her patients’ clinical information.”
Dr Bethell is heavily involved in many activities outside of her practice. She founded and continues to run the Monthly Multicultural Meal, an event that aims to build relationships among overseas migrants and locals, and established the Travellers Well, a Christian organisation that has supported workers in Cambodian orphanages and nursery schools and has provided toys to disadvantaged children at Christmas.
GP17 runs from 26–28 October 2017 at the International Conference Centre in Sydney. Visit the GP17 website for more information.