Tmc Podcast: Interviews With Medical Specialists

Dr Chris Karayiannis is a consultant geriatrician working in Melbourne. Originally from New Zealand, he was drawn to Australia in his resident year by its reputation for good working conditions, and has loved it ever since. Chris liked pretty much every specialty he encountered, but it was the diagnostic challenge that solidified his interest in geriatrics. Those with strong communication skills and who enjoy working with allied health should also consider this field. With the growing popularity of geriatrics, we discuss how to acquire experience and research in the field early on. Chris explains why a growing proportion of prospective doctors are not getting accepted on their first application. Nevertheless, for those accepted into the profession, a rewarding and varied lifestyle awaits. Geriatricians seem to be "generalists that are specialists", dealing with each system as well as the patient as a whole. Chris walks us through his typical day, including how he finds time to work on his PhD! He also offers