Northern Health recently had the pleasure of hosting Dr Nurysia Fazam, a visiting doctor from Malaysia, who spent time with our Chronic Wound Service and Podiatry teams, an experience she says will shape the future of her practice back home.
Reflecting on her time here, Dr Fazam was particularly struck by the highly structured and collaborative approach to wound management. She noted that care at Northern Health extends far beyond treating the wound itself, addressing factors such as vascular health, mobility, nutrition, and psychosocial wellbeing. The strong communication and continuity of care across inpatient, outpatient and community settings also stood out as a key strength.
“The close integration between podiatrists, wound nurse consultants, geriatricians, vascular and allied health teams ensures care is comprehensive and holistic,” she said. “What stands out most is how every aspect of the patient’s condition is considered, not just the wound, but the whole person.”
Dr Fazam believes that even a scaled version of this model could have a significant impact in Malaysia, particularly through improved referral pathways, multidisciplinary discussions and more coordinated care planning.
Dr Fazam also identified key differences that sparked new ideas for her clinical practice.
She highlighted the consistent application of evidence-based guidelines, particularly in diabetic foot care. Equally impactful was Northern Health’s patient-centred approach:
“Patients were consistently engaged as active participants in their care, with treatment plans tailored to their goals, lifestyle and personal circumstances. It’s a model that truly empowers patients.”
This experience has inspired her to further strengthen risk assessment, early screening and patient engagement in her own work.
Throughout her placement, Dr Fazam observed Northern Health’s values in action. “There is a genuine culture of respect and collaboration here. Everyone contributes, and every voice is valued, which ultimately benefits the patient.”
When asked what she will miss most, Dr Fazam pointed to the strong culture of collaboration and continuous learning.
“It was inspiring to be part of a team where knowledge is freely shared, and where everyone works together with a shared purpose of improving patient outcomes.”
She also expressed sincere gratitude to Dr Nicoletta Frescos and Clara Walker, as well as the teams across the Foot Procedure Unit and Chronic Wound Services, for their support, mentorship and warmth.
Dr Nicoletta Frescos, Acting Clinical Educator – Podiatry, reflected on the importance of this exchange:
“The role of community doctors in countries like Malaysia is critical in early detection and prevention. Dr Fazam is already developing plans for when she returns, thanks to the openness and generosity of our staff in sharing their knowledge.”
As Dr Fazam returns to Malaysia, she takes with her not just clinical insights, but a vision for collaborative, patient-centred care.
“I hope to take what I’ve learned here and adapt it meaningfully to improve care in my own community. This experience has been both professionally and personally transformative.”
Her visit is a powerful reminder that when we share knowledge and work together, we strengthen care not just locally, but across the globe.