Published13 Dec 2021

How would you introduce yourself?

I usually introduce myself as Gow. It's a shorter version of my first name and most of my patients usually address me as Dr Gow!

What motivated you to practice medicine?

The opportunity to make a difference. I witnessed and experienced first-hand as a young boy how doctors and healthcare professionals impact and make differences in patients’ lives ( and community wellbeing ) in a way that is so profound it was inspiring

What's your specialty?

I am an Orthopaedic Surgeon with a specialist interest in lower limb orthopaedic problems ( foot, ankle & knees ). I have a sub specialist interest in sports surgery.

What’s your work-life balance as an Orthopaedic Surgeon?

I have a young family with 3 boys. I play sport often – futsal and touch rugby. I am the Education Academy Chair for SICOT, the largest international orthopaedic organization in the world. These balance of these priorities against my clinical work is a juggling act everyday !

What is a highlight of your profession?

Nurturing new talent and innovating current practices. These are 2 things that give me the most satisfaction and challenges at the same time!

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced and obstacles you've had to overcome?

These have changed over the years. More recently, delivering safe, yet effective care during the COVID pandemic was a challenge. Collaborating with international surgeons to address relevant research questions is important yet challenging. Building a strong, cohesive and competent multidisciplinary team around my clinical practice as an orthopaedic surgeon has evolved tremendously and is now almost perfect but is constantly being fine-tuned

What was a fond memory you had of medical school?

Organizing a massive cook-up for my entire year – that’s 143 hungry, young, folk! It was more complex than a military invasion ☺️

What's your advice for doctors who are just starting out?

Never forget why you got into this to begin with. There will always be ups and downs with likely more downs in the first half of the journey ….. & that is normal. Do not evolve, start revolting. Disruptive thinking with an inquisitive mind is what sets you apart. Finally, make all clinical decisions with the patient in the centre of your mind – the patient is always what matters the most!

What do you do for fun?

Sports is my reliever. I think, reflect and make best decisions after sports. I spend all my leisure time with family – they keep me rooted and teach me the importance of human affection