Melbourne School of Population HealthCentre for Health and Society

PhD student profiles

Barbara Hayes

Barbara Hayes
I am a Palliative Care Physician, who has been working in the field since 1991, and until recently was head of the Palliative Care Unit at Broadmeadows Health Service.  I became interested in studying medical ethics when the Northern Territory Euthanasia Legislation was being discussed.  I felt I needed a more structured and rigorous way of thinking about euthanasia, as well as other end-of-life decisions in medicine. This led to me studying for a Master of Bioethics at Monash University, which I completed in 2001. Caring for patients with incurable illness and for dying patients has given me much opportunity to think about end-of-life medical care and about dying. I have now combined this interest with my interest in medical ethics to undertake a PhD exploring ethical end-of-life decision-making, with a particular focus on cardiopulmonary resuscitation. I am thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to develop new research skills and to expand my knowledge in this area, with guidance from skilled supervisors.  am also enjoying the supportive and nurturing environment of the School of Population Health.

Kim McLeod

Kim McLeod
I am undertaking an investigation into how consumers experience antidepressant effects, with view to the qualification being a stepping-stone to further research opportunities. After working in an applied public health research environment for the past five years I was keen to further develop my research skills.  The interdisciplinary nature of CHS makes it a supportive place for generating theory that is connected to public health outcomes.

Patrice Marriott

Patrice Marriott
I became interested in the experience of patients who suffer an adverse event during their hospital stay when working as Co-ordinator of Pastoral care and a grief and loss counsellor at the Royal Women's Hospital in the late 1990's. In that capacity I was called upon to support women and their families at times of great distress. What was remarkable though was the positive and healing impact that timely and heartfelt expressions of sorrow and regret by clinicians had on the patient and their family. I approached CHS because of its reputation as a supportive environment for research students, a reputation which is well-deserved! I see my work leading to further research and a role in the education and formation of medical students.

Ros McDougall

Ros McDougall
I am investigating the ethical issues associated with medical internship and residency.  After completing my masters in philosophy at Oxford, I wanted to do a PhD that addressed very practical problems and incorporated empirical research as part of a philosophical project. I chose the Centre for Health and Society because of the expertise here and the supportive interdisciplinary atmosphere.

 

 

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