Dr Phoebe Loxton (2002) has taken her paediatric training from Sydney’s leading hospitals to the heart of regional New South Wales.
She holds dual qualifications as a specialist in immunology and allergy, and general paediatrics. Phoebe graduated from the University of Sydney in 2009 and undertook her paediatric training through the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, where she held a fellowship in immunology.
Now based in Orange NSW, Phoebe specialises in diagnosis and management of children with allergic conditions, alongside a broad range of general paediatrics, with an interest in neurodiversity. Deeply committed to equitable access to healthcare, Phoebe contributes to her community by teaching medical students at the University of Sydney Medical Program through the Rural Clinical School while also working at the Orange Aboriginal Medical Service.
Looking back on your career, when did you know you wanted to work as a pediatrician?
When I finished school, I wanted to work in medical research. It was in second year uni that I worked out that I didn’t have the stamina for a laboratory! Paediatrics is varied, interesting and rewarding in so many ways. I feel very lucky to work with kids and their families every day. It was a good choice for me.
What have been the biggest challenges of training in your specialty/career?
Paediatric training moves you between lots of different hospitals, towns and working environments, including lots of nights and shift work, and working long shifts made me fatigued. That was probably the most challenging part of training.
How do you keep up to date with new technologies and advances in your field?
This is one of my biggest challenges, as the only paediatric immunologist in NSW west of the mountains. I feel strongly that children living regionally should have equitable access to medical care and research. Attending conferences and being an active member of professional bodies is helpful in maintaining relationships with colleagues. Webinars and online meetings have certainly helped in keeping up to date from a distance.
What advice would you have for students looking to work in pediatrics?
Be curious. Talk to people in the field. I have been lucky to have had mentors and colleagues that have helped shape my career so far. Be flexible and prepared for uncertainty. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, but worth every step.
Annabel Millet (2000)
Image: Dr Phoebe Loxton (2002)
