December 3, 2025At Northern Health, the transition from medical student to junior doctor is supported by more than just orientation sessions and workshops – it’s anchored by a vital resource known as the Junior Doctor Handbook.
Behind this essential guide is one of Northern Doctors Education Unit’s dedicated Advisors, Ijaza Lafeer, who has spent over four years ensuring Junior Medical Staff (JMS) are not only informed but empowered.
“My role is to ensure our JMS are orientated, supported, informed and ready to thrive,” she explains. “From coordinating intern orientation to running the Transition to Practice Program, every day is fast-paced and rewarding.”
A typical day for her includes running weekly education programs for interns and second year Post Graduate students, coordinating practical workshops like suturing and Basic Life Support and collaborating with the Junior Medical Staff Association (JMSA). But her biggest project right now? The 2026 edition of the Junior Doctor Handbook.
“This handbook is our one-stop shop for junior doctors,” she says. “It’s the first thing they receive when they start at Northern Health, and it has everything they need – from key hospital policies and department information to welcome messages and practical tips. It’s simple, clear, and accessible anytime via Teams.”
Updated annually, the handbook is designed to reflect the most current information and serve as a reliable companion throughout the year. It’s especially helpful for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and those navigating the complexities of a new hospital system.
For Jess Gu, a 2025 intern, the handbook was more than just a document – it was a lifeline.
“Starting internship was both an exciting yet daunting experience,” Jess shares. “Despite four years of medical school, nothing quite prepared me for my first year working as a doctor. The Junior Doctor Handbook was a constant and centralised resource that addressed most concerns I had throughout the year. From key contacts to administrative tasks, it helped me navigate the system and feel supported.”
As Northern Health prepares to welcome its next cohort of interns, the 2026 Junior Doctor Handbook stands ready – a testament to the team’s commitment to the success of every junior doctor who walks through its doors.
Picture shows Jess and Ijaza with the 2026 Junior Doctor Handbook.
