A Passion for Learning and Care

 Dr Sarah Lee, Anaesthetist at Eastern Health, has had a career in medicine that has been shaped by perseverance, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. 

An innovative approach to education has earned Dr Lee recognition from the Australian Medical Association (AMA) for excellence in anaesthetic education and training. 

Central to her award-winning work is ADVANCE (Anaesthesia Discussion, Views and Contemporary Evidence), a multidisciplinary educational initiative designed to help clinicians stay connected with evolving research and best practice.  

“The aim of ADVANCE really is to help all our busy practitioners come together, present the evidence that’s out there and learn from the experts,” she said. 

Dr Lee’s journey at Eastern Health had a few sliding-door moments; what began as a six-month maternity leave position evolved into a long-term career, progressing from intern to critical care residency program and eventually anaesthesia training. Dr Lee credits a series of opportunities and hard work for where she is today.  

“Eastern Health opened their doors to me, doing my six-month maternity cover, not knowing whether the contract would continue, it’s just by a series of incredibly fortunate events that I managed to stay.”  

While education is a key focus, Dr Lee remains deeply connected to the patient experience. 

“Being a healthcare professional is a unique field. We get to be with patients at their most vulnerable stages of their lives and help them and their families through some difficult moments,” she said. 

Dr Lee embodies the Eastern Health Strategic Focus, ‘Supporting and Developing our People’, while her continued desire to fostering a culture of learning, collaboration and excellence across the profession, will result in better care and experiences for our community and staff.