Dr Manisha Fernando

Since graduating from Monash University in 1999, I have lived and worked in rural and regional Victoria and overseas - including volunteering in remote Vanuatu and post-tsunami rural Sri Lanka.  My work spans clinical rural general practice, rural hospital work, public health medicine, primary health care research, clinical education and advocacy for general practice education and rural health.  From 2007-2009 I undertook my masters research project, on patient controlled health records, at MacFarlane Burnet Institute for Medical Research and Public Health.

Of the fifteen years since I first started work as a rural GP, fourteen of those years have been in the Macedon Ranges. I love my work and I can’t imagine doing anything else.

My professional qualifications include fellowships in general practice and rural general practice, a masters of public health, a certificate of clinical education and a diploma in obstetrics and gynaecology. I’ve also spent time overseas, including volunteering as a doctor in remote Vanuatu and post-tsunami rural Sri Lanka.

After fifteen years living in the Macedon Ranges, I can’t imagine leaving. My husband and I continue to raise our young family here and enjoy all the benefits that rural living provides.

I believe in working in partnership with individuals and communities to improve their health and wellbeing. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, caring for multiple members of a family, and providing continuity of care for individuals and families over time helps me bring that belief to life.

My areas of specific knowledge and interest include children’s and adolescent health, women’s health (including antenatal care and breast feeding), mental health and wellbeing (including an interest in mindfulness meditation), and teaching GP trainees and medical students.

I love my work as rural GP and medical educator, and throughout my career I have always demonstrated a passion for the bigger health picture. I have experience on rural health, general practice and community boards and a particular interest in issues around access and equity for rural and remote people.