Meet Dr Kate Hewitson

5 May 2025

How long have you been with St John of God Health Care?

Since January 2025.

What kind of role and responsibilities have you taken on so far?

As an intern in general medicine, you can contribute to patient care throughout the patient’s journey, from when they present to the Emergency Department (ED) to their discharge from the medical ward. I have been supported by the registrars and consultants on my team to contribute to patient assessment, investigation and management. Working after hours, I have been able to further develop my clinical reasoning and approach to various presentations, increasing my confidence and clinical skills.

What drew you to apply for an internship at St John of God Health Care?

I had a very positive experience on student placements in ED, paediatrics and obstetrics and gynaecology at St John of God Midland Public Hospital and always felt supported by the teams I worked with. I was also drawn in by the opportunity to do a general medicine term in a peripheral hospital where you get to see a broad range of medical presentations rather than be limited to a particular sub-speciality medical term. 

Has your experience as an intern differed from how you thought it would be? 

It has been a steep learning curve, everything I could have imagined and more. All the weeks of medical school placement won’t fully prepare you for your first days and weeks working as a doctor, but I have been so fortunate to be surrounded by amazing registered medical officers and registrars who have always provided support and guidance. Everyone just wants you to do your best, and at the end of the day, you are never alone in your work as an intern.

What have you enjoyed most about working with us?

My colleagues, everyone at St John of God Midland Public Hospital, are so kind and supportive. I have never felt that I couldn’t ask for help or advice from a more experienced clinician.

What is your best piece of advice for future interns?

Keep an open mind and know that wherever you go for your internship, you will have diverse experiences, and the learning will be endless. Don’t be pressured into choosing a hospital based on your perception of other people’s expectations of you. Ask yourself where you actually want to go and why. Think about all the practicalities that will influence your day-to-day life: drive time, public transport, parking, etc. Also, consider the secondary hospitals linked to the hospital service you are applying to; you are likely to have at least one rotation at a secondary site during your internship.

What does St John of God Health Care do to make caregivers feel appreciated and cared about in the workplace?

I think the attitudes and approach of leaders within the organisation have a flow-on effect across the hospital, creating a positive work environment where every individual feels respected and valued for their contributions. 

What advice would you offer to graduates who want to make their intern applications stand out?

Think about what makes you unique and include it in your application. Every medical student is dedicated and passionate about embarking on their career in health care so whilst it is important to touch on that in your application, consider points of difference that will distinguish you from other applicants.