The local GP can be the heart and soul of any country town, providing a huge scope of medical services.
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For 42 years Dr F Ranjan Perera of Dr Perera's Surgery has been exactly that for Cootamundra.
Dr Perera and his family originally came from Sri Lanka, before working some time in New Zealand and then made the move to Cootamundra 42 years ago.
Practice manager Rebecca Paterson-Waples said the surgery is the only independent practice in town.
"We offer a close and more personal health care experience than some of the larger medical centres are able to provide," Rebecca said.
"We are able to offer many services to our patients depending on their needs at any particular time. We also have an in-house psychologist, Lee Seary, available every Thursday and Friday.
"Whatever the need, we are here for our community and have been for over 40 years."
The surgery offers the gamut of GP services, including:
- Standard Consultations
- Childhood immunisations
- Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander assessments
- GP management plans and team care arrangements for patients with chronic disease
- Annual 75 years and over health assessments.
- 45-to-49 year-old health assessments
- Diabetes assessments
- Asthma care plans
- Minor surgical procedures
- Cryotherapy
- Diathermy
- Travel vaccinations
As well as Dr Perera, the experienced team includes a practice nurse (Dakota) and three staff members - Rennae Tozer has been the the "friendly face at the front" for almost three years, senior receptionist Emily Paterson has been on staff for almost 10 years and practice manager Rebecca has served the practice for nearly 20 years.
"It is very important to seek professional advice if you are having any problems with your health," Rebecca said. "In this day and age many people have symptoms and go straight to the internet to Google and find out what their problem is.
"However, when you seek your information from a professional during your consultation the correct medical advice can be given and the outcome is much more beneficial for the patient."
Dr Perera's Surgery has been proud to serve Cootamundra for over 40 years.
Rebecca said the small-town feel and everyone knowing everyone else creates a strong community.
"It has always been that if a community member is unwell or a tragedy has struck, we band together in support," she said. "I am proud of our town for its community spirit."
- 42 Cooper Street, Cootamundra
- 02 6942 1011
- www.drpererassurgery.com.au
- @Dr Perera's Surgery
